Sam Darnold has been a revelation this season as the Vikings’ quarterback under Kevin O’Connell. The one-time top-five pick turned backup looks like that player the Jets thought they were getting out of USC.
The Vikings squeaked out another win this past Sunday against the Cardinals, and it was largely because of how Darnold played. He completed 21-of-31 passes for 235 yards and two scores. Not only did Darnold give the Vikings a come-from-behind win, but he also broke a personal losing streak.
Entering the game, Darnold was 0-23 for his career when his team trailed by 13 or more points. The Vikings were down 19-6 with just over four minutes to play in the third quarter.
Darnold would lead the Vikings down for three scoring plays before time ran out, including a winning drive. With just over a minute remaining on the clock, Darnold found Aaron Jones for a five-yard score.