SEATTLE — Sam Darnold showcased his growing confidence as a leader, helping the Minnesota Vikings overcome a late deficit to defeat the Seattle Seahawks 27-24. The victory kept the Vikings in close competition with Detroit for the top position in the NFC, continuing their momentum as they pursue a playoff berth.
With the Seahawks leading 24-20 after Geno Smith’s third touchdown pass of the game, Darnold orchestrated a 30-second drive that was extended by a 15-yard facemask penalty. Despite intense pressure and a collapsing pocket, Darnold connected with Justin Jefferson for a 31-yard touchdown pass with just 3:51 remaining, marking his third passing touchdown of the game. Jefferson, who finished with 10 receptions for 148 yards, made a spectacular play, catching the ball just shy of the goal line while evading two defenders.
Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell praised Darnold’s leadership and composure, noting the team’s confidence in the quarterback. “We knew we were going to get a touchdown,” said O’Connell, emphasizing the trust Darnold has built with his teammates. The Vikings’ offense, despite facing a raucous crowd in Seattle, executed their game plan seamlessly, benefiting from both Darnold’s playmaking ability and Jefferson’s consistent performance.
Darnold, who completed 22 of 35 passes for 246 yards, has now thrown multiple touchdowns in 11 games this season. His performance is even more remarkable given his role as a placeholder for the injured J.J. McCarthy, whom the Vikings drafted in the offseason. Despite being signed on a one-year deal, Darnold has proven to be a reliable and capable starter.
On the final drive, with O’Connell’s headset malfunctioning, Darnold called his own plays, including a key scramble that kept the drive alive. His ability to adapt in critical moments has been a key factor in the Vikings’ impressive season.
While the Seahawks struggled to maintain their earlier momentum, with Smith throwing for 314 yards and two touchdown passes, including a 25-yard connection with DK Metcalf, they couldn’t stop Darnold and Jefferson’s late-game heroics. Seattle’s hopes were dashed when Jason Myers missed a 60-yard field goal attempt, and Theo Jackson intercepted Smith with 49 seconds left, securing the win for Minnesota.
The Vikings improved to 13-2, extending their win streak to eight games. If they defeat Green Bay and Detroit to close out the season, they will secure the top seed in the NFC and earn a first-round playoff bye.
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