J.J. McCarthy made up for lost time in the Minnesota Vikings’ last game. The rookie quarterback was out of action for five straight contests due to an ankle injury, and he made quite an impact in his first game back, leading the Vikings to an impressive 27-24 win over their division rivals, the Detroit Lions.

The Minnesota quarterback battles Baltimore Sunday, but he has an adorable little fan cheering him on back home.

Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy divulged this week that an alter ego has been helping him succeed during his first season as a starting NFL QB.

McCarthy flashed a hard edge. A mean mug, if you will. He explained his facial expression to reporters on Wednesday. Via Kevin Seifert of ESPN.com, McCarthy says it’s his alter ego. He refers to it as “Nine,” after the number on his jersey.

The result wasn't a good one, but the Vikings explained that they'll take their chances with that situation every time.

McCarthy's has intense gameday demeanor has been celebrated in Vikings postgame locker room videos and mocked on social media

Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy delivers a dart under duress to wide receiver Justin Jefferson for first down conversion.

McCarthy’s calm demeanor disappears between the lines, replaced by an alter ego teammates swear is the real deal.