Minnesota Vikings quarterback Sam Darnold has cemented his status as a leader on the team, guiding them to their biggest regular-season game in recent memory. After Sunday’s 27-25 victory over the Green Bay Packers, the Vikings are set for a winner-take-all Week 18 game against the Detroit Lions to determine both the NFC North title and the No. 1 seed in the NFC playoffs.
Darnold’s impressive performance earned him his first “LFG” trophy, awarded by Fox Sports analyst Tom Brady, as well as the admiration of his teammates. Coach Kevin O’Connell praised Darnold’s play, saying he has been playing quarterback at a high level throughout the season.
The Vikings’ victory was secured on a 6-yard floater to running back Cam Akers on third-and-2, which sealed the game and gave Darnold his 35th touchdown pass of the season. Akers described the moment as “electric” and praised Darnold’s hard work, saying he deserves the recognition.
Darnold himself referenced the movie “Talladega Nights,” saying that being lifted onto teammates’ shoulders was a rare but fun moment for him. The Vikings are now one step closer to achieving their goal of securing the NFC North title and the No. 1 seed in the playoffs, all thanks to Darnold’s leadership and performance.
Source: https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/43217375/vikings-celebrate-sam-darnold-key-win-packers