Part 2/8:
Coming off a standout regular season where Sam Darnold demonstrated significant improvements, the stakes were high for him in the Vikings' week 18 matchup against the Detroit Lions. This game not only had playoff implications but represented a pivotal moment for Darnold's career. With a record of 14-3, the Vikings had the opportunity to secure a first-round bye but fell short, marking one of Darnold's worst performances of the season. The young quarterback’s dismal outing—18 completions on 41 attempts for just 166 yards—left questions lingering about his ability to perform in pressure situations.