Vikings’ Kevin O’Connell Addresses Sam Darnold’s Performance Amid 2-Game Flop

The Minnesota Vikings quarterback regressed in his final two games. Head coach O'Connell wants people to see the whole picture.
Vikings’ Kevin O’Connell Addresses Sam Darnold’s Performance Amid 2-Game Flop
Minnesota Vikings Quarterback Sam Darnold (14) prepares to snap the ball during the third quarter against the Los Angeles Rams during the NFC Wild Card Playoff at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Ariz., on Jan. 13, 2025. Christian Petersen/Getty Images
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Minnesota Vikings quarterback Sam Darnold’s career year spiraled in the final two games of the season, but after the playoff loss on Monday, head coach Kevin O’Connell pointed to the bigger picture.
“What he was able to do this year, when not very many people thought he would be able to lead a team to 14 wins, which is rare,” O'Connell told reporters after a 27–9 loss to the Los Angeles Rams. “The way he came in, committed himself to just a daily process to be the best version of himself.” 
Matthew Davis
Matthew Davis
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Matthew Davis is an experienced, award-winning journalist who has covered major professional and college sports for years. His writing has appeared on Heavy, the Star Tribune, and The Catholic Spirit. He has a degree in mass communication from North Dakota State University.