The Minnesota Vikings looked significantly better than expected in the season opener.
Granted, the New York Giants aren’t the kind of team you measure greatness against, but they were supposed to be good defensively, and Kevin O’Connell’s team still kept them on their toes.
Aaron Jones had a strong outing on the ground, and Sam Darnold looked the best he’s ever looked on an NFL field.
Following the game, superstar WR Justin Jefferson raved about his quarterback, adding that he wants him to feel more confident when throwing him the ball (Via Alec Ausmus).
Just 4 receptions for 59 yards for Justin Jefferson today in win over the Giants.
But he had a TD and a deep ball in double coverage from Sam Darnold, and wants his QB to keep having confidence in that throw.
"Even when I'm doubled, I'm still open." pic.twitter.com/W3K8CgfZmT
— Alec Ausmus (@A_TwiceKSTP) September 9, 2024
Jefferson, who finished the game with just four receptions for 59 yards and one touchdown, let Darnold know that he’s open even when he’s double-teamed, adding that a big game is due for both of them.
Darnold looked quite sharp in his debut with his new team.
He completed 19 of 24 passes for 208 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception.
He was only sacked once and added three carries for as many yards.
Kevin O’Connell’s QB-friendly system might be just what the doctor ordered for a player like Sam Darnold.
The talent has always been there, but the supporting cast and the situation have been far from ideal.
The Vikings still hope that JJ McCarthy will be their guy of the future, so this is most likely a one-year audition for Darnold to get another job somewhere else.
Now, we’ll have to wait and see how he fares against competitive teams, but the early returns are quite encouraging.
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