The quarterback's difficulties stood out, but the head coaches each earned some focus, a running back rolled and a kicker did something silly.

In Sunday night's huge matchup between the Minnesota Vikings and Detroit Lions, Darnold struggled mightily in the first two-plus quarters, specifically in the red zone.

After leading the Minnesota Vikings to a 27-25 win over the Green Bay Packers last week, Darnold was mobbed in the locker room by his teammates and lifted up onto their shoulders. The clip quickly went viral on social media as a sign of the support that Minneosta’s players have for their quarterback.

Detroit dominated in the most important game of the regular season, and the difference was a quarterback who looks ready for the challenges ahead.

PM ET on NBC, sportsbooks have issued player props on Sam Darnold. NFC North rivals meet in Week 18 when Darnold and the Minnesota Vikings (14-2)

Big things are expected from Sam Darnold in this one as the former USC star looks to keep his foot on the gas amid what has been an incredible season for him. Making the trip to Detroit with Darnold is his girlfriend Katie Hoofnagle, who took to Instagram to flex her outfit before kick-off.

The betting odds for Minnesota Vikings quarterback Sam Darnold to win the Comeback Player of the Year Award have been rising. Can the former USC Trojans leader beat Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow for the honor?

"Prediction: The Vikings apply a $39M+ franchise tag on Sam Darnold, then trade J.J. McCarthy to the Las Vegas Raiders days before the NFL Draft. Darnold and the Vikings agree on a 4 year, $196M extension before the July 15 deadline that includes $110M guaranteed," Ginnitti wrote.

Having significantly increased his value across the NFL this season, Sam Darnold's future with the Minnesota Vikings will be one of the key questions

Minnesota Vikings quarterback Sam Darnold is in line for a significant raise after his Pro Bowl-caliber season.

Sam Darnold's journey in the NFL has been filled with ups and downs, but his career took a major turn in 2024 after he joined the Minnesota Vikings. The veteran quarterback, who