Fair or not, the spotlight will shine brightest on Darnold, who is guaranteed only one more game in a Vikings uniform. His first playoff experience likely could shape whatever happens next in his career, whether that’s in Minnesota or somewhere else.
This is a big spot for him, though he came across as engaging and relaxed as he has all season in his media session.
He recalled returning an interception for a touchdown in high school as a sophomore linebacker. “They ran a screen, and I sniffed it out,” he said.
He credited his dad, a plumber, for teaching him the importance of keeping a consistent routine in a job. He also noted that his dad occasionally sends him photos of random homes with Vikings flags displayed outside in their hometown in California.
“It’s a pretty fun deal,” he said. “To be part of something like this is very special.”
The opportunity is not lost on him. The Vikings won 14 games this season. They are a good team that laid an egg in Detroit. That doesn’t mean their playoff hopes are ruined.