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USA Today Sports Media Group
USA Today Sports Media Group
Sport
Trent Knoop

Sam Darnold off to a perfect start against the Rams in Week 8

Could Vikings’ quarterback Sam Darnold look even better than he has through the first six weeks? Maybe so.

On Thursday, under the bright lights of Thursday Night Football, Sam Darnold is cooking against the Los Angeles Rams. Darnold has been flawless for the Viking offense through one quarter of football. He has completed all eight attempts for 97 yards and two touchdowns. Darnold also has seven yards on the ground.

It is no surprise that Darnold has a great early connection with Justin Jefferson. Jefferson has caught five passes for 68 yards and looked unbeatable. But both touchdowns have come to role players. Darnold’s first touchdown pass went to tight end Josh Oliver, and then he followed it up with a touchdown score for Trent Sherfield Jr.

The Vikings currently hold a 14-7 lead after the first quarter. The Rams’ offense has attacked the Minnesota secondary early with Puka Nacua back in the lineup. We will see how Brian Flores adjusts to the Rams’ attack.

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