“I just remember being, like, ‘That’s the trait,’ ” he said. “Not only a guy that can fly, but a guy that can track the ball and really effortlessly make something that’s very, very difficult look easy. There’s been great examples of it, but I think we got two of them right here in our building for sure.”
Something else to consider: No NFL team has racked up more free yards from pass interference penalties this season than the Vikings at 273. Jefferson has drawn the most pass interferences in the league with eight.
Atlanta cornerback Mike Hughes tackled Addison on a deep pass in the second quarter, resulting in a 47-yard pass interference penalty. The outcome was the same as a long completion.
Postgame, O’Connell praised Darnold’s entire performance, saying he showed “big-field vision and putting the ball exactly where it needs to go. Incredibly calm. Total ownership, command.”
His best moment came when he dodged a sack, then threw on the run deep downfield to Jefferson, who had his arm raised in a universal sign of “I’m open!”
Darnold had clarity in that moment. He knew to cut it loose. He didn’t miss, and Jefferson backpedaled into the end zone for a touchdown.