Kevin O’Connell and the Minnesota Vikings got an unanticipated wake-up call after the embarrassing loss to the Detroit Lions to end the NFL’s regular season. Sam Darnold had looked like a quarterback ready to be a franchise cornerstone for most of the season — but on the biggest stage with the brightest lights,

Despite having the obstacle of the Rams’ home field advantage removed in tragic fashion, given the tragic and horrific fires in Los Angeles, the Minnesota Vikings will undoubtedly be feeling the need for a team bounce-back after a 31-9 drubbing at the Detroit Lions last Sunday,

Sam Darnold put forth a career performance for the Minnesota Vikings this season, ranking among the NFL's top 10 quarterbacks in passing yardage, touchdown throws, passer rating and winning percentage.

Seven days separated two visuals that could not have been more in contrast if you hung a portrait of Quasimodo next to the Mona Lisa. There was Sam Darnold, after defeating the Packers, hoisted atop teammates' shoulders,

Sam Darnold is on track to reach free agency in March and understands what's at stake regarding his short- and long-term futures.