Vikings Sticking with QB Josh Dobbs as Starter vs. Raiders

The quarterback will remain entrenched under center as his star wide receiver returns to the fold.

The Vikings are sticking with quarterback Josh Dobbs as the starter for Sunday’s game against the Raiders, coach Kevin O’Connell announced Wednesday.

Minnesota was evaluating a potential change under center going into the bye week, but after discussing internally, Dobbs will remain the starter for now.

It’s likely that Minnesota wanted time to evaluate Dobbs under center with All-Pro wide receiver Justin Jefferson returning to the lineup, providing the quarterback with an elite weapon on the outside.

After quarterback Kirk Cousins tore his Achilles in October, the Vikings traded for Dobbs, who was brought in to become the starter for the rest of the season. Even without Jefferson in the lineup, Dobbs performed well until a dismal four-interception outing in a 12–10 loss to the division-rival Bears before the bye week. 

The loss to Chicago, which was an unexpected defeat as the Vikings fight for their playoff hopes, left O’Connell and his staff contemplating a change entering the bye week. But now, Dobbs will continue in the role as Minnesota looks to bounce back on Sunday.

Dobbs has completed 64.0% of his passes for 2,401 yards and 13 touchdowns to 10 interceptions this season. He has also rushed for 400 yards and six touchdowns in 2023.