Sam Darnold is steering clear of stirring up any controversy, focusing instead on his remarkable season start. The 27-year-old quarterback has been a revelation for the Minnesota Vikings, driving the team to an impressive 4-0 opening to the season while delivering some of the best performances of his career. When questioned this week about whether the New York Jets had failed him during his formative years as a young quarterback, his response was measured and diplomatic. The inquiry gains relevance with the upcoming face-off between Darnold’s Vikings (4-0) and the Jets (2-2) this Sunday, set against the international backdrop of London.
"I had a lot of opportunities in New York," Darnold reflected, introducing a touch of humility to his answer. "I always thought I could play better there."
Six years after being drafted third overall by the Jets out of USC, it appears Darnold has discovered his niche. With a staggering 932 passing yards, 11 touchdowns, and only three interceptions in his initial four games with Minnesota, Darnold is leading the league in both touchdowns and passer rating (118.9) as they approach Week 5.
A clash with his former team isn’t likely to incite any grudges from Darnold.
"To be honest, I’m not thinking about it," he revealed. "There are a lot of new faces there. I still know some players. I’m sure before or after the game, I’ll see some of the people I’ve built great relationships with. That’s always the fun part of this league—getting to see the people you’ve worked with in the past."
The Jets have undergone significant transformation, including the addition of veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers, now in his second season with them after 18 seasons with the Vikings’ archrivals, the Green Bay Packers.
At 40, Rodgers has experienced a rocky start to the season, throwing for 849 yards, five touchdowns, and one interception. Yet, the Jets have struggled with offensive consistency and Rodgers has been somewhat restrained in practice due to a knee issue.
"I feel a little hurt," Rodgers mentioned during an ESPN appearance. "I took a few shots. My knee is a little swollen."
Rodgers’ soreness might see the Jets lean more heavily on Breece Hall and their rushing attack. Hall has amassed 174 yards and two touchdowns this season, with rookie Braelon Allen contributing 130 yards and a score.
The Vikings are comfortably situated in terms of injuries, with cornerback Akayleb Evans missing practice due to illness but expected back on Sunday. Their ground attack is spearheaded by Rodgers’ former teammate Aaron Jones, while Justin Jefferson is a dominant force in their passing game.
In defense, the Vikings see Patrick Jones II and Jonathan Greenard headlining with five and four sacks, respectively. Meanwhile, the Jets’ pass rush is powered by Will McDonald IV with five sacks.
The stage for this transatlantic showdown is set at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in north London, where the Vikings serve as hosts. Minnesota boasts a perfect 3-0 record in London with victories in 2013, 2017, and most recently, a thrilling 28-25 win over the New Orleans Saints in 2022. The Jets, meanwhile, break even with a 1-1 record on the British turf.
With anticipation building, this matchup promises to be a captivating display of athleticism, strategy, and competitive spirit, emblematic of the passion we all share for NFL football.
