The Minnesota Vikings seemed considerably higher than anticipated within the season opener.
Granted, the New York Giants aren’t the form of crew you measure greatness towards, however they have been presupposed to be good defensively, and Kevin O’Connell’s crew nonetheless saved them on their toes.
Aaron Jones had a powerful outing on the bottom, and Sam Darnold seemed the most effective he’s ever seemed on an NFL subject.
Following the sport, famous person WR Justin Jefferson raved about his quarterback, including that he needs him to really feel extra assured when throwing him the ball (By way of Alec Ausmus).
Simply 4 receptions for 59 yards for Justin Jefferson at present in win over the Giants.
However he had a TD and a deep ball in double protection from Sam Darnold, and needs his QB to maintain 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 completed the sport with simply 4 receptions for 59 yards and one landing, let Darnold know that he’s open even when he’s double-teamed, including {that a} huge recreation is due for each of them.
Darnold seemed fairly sharp in his debut along with his new crew.
He accomplished 19 of 24 passes for 208 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception.
He was solely sacked as soon as and added three carries for as many yards.
Kevin O’Connell’s QB-friendly system could be simply what the physician ordered for a participant like Sam Darnold.
The expertise has at all times been there, however the supporting forged and the state of affairs have been removed from splendid.
The Vikings nonetheless hope that JJ McCarthy can be their man of the longer term, so that is almost definitely a one-year audition for Darnold to get one other job elsewhere.
Now, we’ll have to attend and see how he fares towards aggressive groups, however the early returns are fairly encouraging.
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