Sam Darnold leads Vikings to ninth straight win with 377 passing yards

In a thrilling game on December 29, 2024, at home, Sam Darnold showcased his exceptional skills as he passed for a career-high 377 yards and three touchdowns, leading the Minnesota Vikings to a narrow 27-25 victory over the Green Bay Packers. This performance not only marked Darnold's 14th win of the season but also helped the Vikings secure their place in a winner-take-all showdown for the NFC North title in their upcoming Week 18 match against the Detroit Lions. With this victory, the Vikings improved to an impressive 14-2 record, putting them just one win away from clinching the top seed in the NFC playoffs. Darnold's standout performance came at a crucial juncture as the Vikings held onto a 17-point lead before the Packers made a late-game surge, cutting the deficit to just two points in the fourth quarter. Despite the pressure, Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell trusted Darnold to make pivotal plays in the game's final moments, opting for a pass-heavy strategy instead of relying solely on the running game to run out the clock. This approach exemplified Darnold's growth as a quarterback and O'Connell's faith in him to lead the offense effectively, showcasing a blend of skill and strategy that paid off. Throughout the season, Darnold has emerged as one of the most successful quarterbacks, breaking NFL records for victories in a debut season and achieving several personal milestones. His three touchdown passes on this occasion brought his season total to 35, marking the fourth-most in history for a quarterback in their first season with a team. This consistent performance not only reinforced the Vikings’ competitive edge in the NFC but also highlighted Darnold’s evolution as a leader on the field. As the Vikings prepare to face the Lions, this crucial win against the Packers sets a strong tone for the postseason, with the team’s momentum building as they aim for playoff success. The game also showcased significant performances from Darnold's receiving corps, including successful targets to Jalen Nailor, Jordan Addison, and Cam Akers, all of whom contributed to the scoring. In contrast, the Packers, despite quarterback Jordan Love's efforts and a late touchdown pass, fell short, extending their struggles in a tightly contested division rivalry. The outcome of this match has raised the stakes dramatically for the Vikings, who will be looking to clinch the division title and secure a favorable position heading into the playoffs.