TELL THE TRUTH MONDAY: Top-10 Storylines from the 14-3 Minnesota Vikings

[@Navarre-i1j]

I think that had the Vikings won, most would want to re-sign Darnold. Questions answered. Now it will take a Super Bowl trip to lock in that decision. No one wants another Cousins.

[@kolfibrown6540]

Facts

[@TheSmirkDiggler]

Amen!!!

[@hthrun]

Whatever the Vikings decide to do at QB, it'll probably turn out to be the wrong decision.

[@coltonsimmer1080]

Want to see what happens in the playoffs before we write him off. I think he showed most of the year what he’s capable of.

[@chengcha9289]

True

[@JackStraw1961]

Vikings are always just good enough to break your heart.

[@bookem5537]

every year

[@timlarson9033]

No one expected them to be in the playoffs at the beginning of the year or to post a record of 14-3 at the end of the season. And they aren't done yet. So just a partial broken heart for now.

[@jeffrosier3632]

Vikings football, great seasons, playoffs or big time games not so much. I been a fan since 1967, this is the first season I didn't watch or tune in weekly for games like this. I was excited to see them live up to the hype for this game but not surprised by how it played out.

[@Stacked3403]

I was expecting nothing from this season, then I allowed myself to get my hopes up, now im back to no expectations for the playoffs

[@GM98420]

​@@timlarson9033 Sounds like copium to me. Same excuses from vikings fans every year. "No one expected us to go this far!" "This was supposed to be a rebuilding year." Blah blah blah! When do you want to win a Superbowl? When everything is exactly perfect and all the stars are aligned in the vikings favor? Never gonna happen! All they need to do is play solid disciplined football and they never do. They always choke and always will.

[@JakeHamm-nc7xk]

Looking at it as “cup is half full”: This game was essentially a playoff game. Sam got his first taste of playoff football without being knocked out of the playoffs. Now, hopefully he and the team will learn and grow from this to be able to be more comfortable next week against the Rams.

[@jayrome007]

It was a playoff game, with a 5th seed consolation prize for the loser. Pretty good deal overall, when you consider how high the stakes will get next week. Imagine being the Packers who simply needed to win at home against a ratty Bears team to avoid the 7th seed... and they couldn't do it. Much rather be in our shoes, recent disappointment aside.

[@deezpleez3832]

@@JakeHamm-nc7xk @Rams @Lions @Eagles @New Orleans. Let the journey begin.

[@danarnett9660]

When he missed TJ on that first third down and then again wide open over the middle, I was like…oh crap

[@jaywysard]

Exactly. Last week Darnold missed JJ on a wide open curl for a critical first down. Then on the next play Reichard missed a FG, the wheels came off the cart, and we almost lost the damn game. IDK, man. I feel like Darnold's tired and his passing fundamentals are breaking down...not throwing off his front foot and keeping the ball down.

[@tamera3328]

Exactly and the Line can’t be blamed for everything!! They didn’t score a TD you won’t win against them!! Next week can help his case but they really had a chance!! He’s a great story but next week is huge

[@raverboi89]

TJ hasnt been catching balls that well he's been a disappointment this year

[@MrLmx1]

Same bro

[@MrMrjchips]

He would've fucking dropped it anyway

[@zebra2346]

Andy, you have taught me to never give up on the Vikings no matter what, you're an optimist and a true Viking Warrior through and through. Lets beat the Rams next week so we can humilite the Lions in 2 weeks!

[@hagaiderech1765]

That's not true. There is reseeding in the divisional round.

[@JB-io5ut]

Knowing our luck Washington will defeat the Bucs and we will end up going to Philly!

[@Chunkyb514]

Darnold looked like Caleb Williams last night.

[@swanksthetiger1169]

Not even bro. He looked worse than Mullens.

[@vanhagar3000]

Did some Freaky Friday shit happen Sunday where they switched bodies?

[@metallica990z]

@@swanksthetiger1169 honestly I was thinking about him being put in last night.

[@Ulver1349]

​​​@@metallica990z all things considered your interior Offensive Lineman and KOC's misadjustments were the problem. Darnold made the Pro Bowl... but I'm certain that there's probably little convincing some football "fans" that Darnold was allowed very little time to get rhythm. Not only that your big star receivers half of the time had bad timing, poor route adjustment e.g. couldn't use their talent enough to bail an over pressured, over hurried Pro Bowl caliber QB out. Also - please answer why you could not score a TD running the ball. They should have had YOU as their OC and QB.

[@ghostdollarz162]

Hell naw, I won't stand for the Caleb disrespect!!!

[@vikingforlife44]

Vikes have now gone 5 quarters without scoring a TD.

[@HilltopHomesteadVT]

Lions fan here. Vikings are still one of the best teams in the conference and I am TERRIFIED of having to play you again in two weeks. Honestly this could be seen as such a blessing to have a practice playoff game under Sam Darnold’s belt, on the road, and it not be the end of your season. Hope should not be lost for the Purple People Eaters.

[@VikeMe]

Good game homie. I can honestly say that you’re probably one of the real lions fans and not one of these new dik riders from two years ago. We will bounce back. But the better team won last night.

[@wmackey2611]

Your Team played great with less than your best defensive players...you deserved to win the #1 seed...if we meet you again in two weeks it will be a great contest for sure.

[@dereckdunckel]

I agree with you that the vikings are good but honestly you shouldn't be terrified to play them. Lions seem to outcoach them every time and I believe that's 4 straight Lions wins vs min.. either way this vikings team has been great and I wouldn't write them off but all I was saying is you shouldn't be scared because of recent history head to head.

[@Noles904Jax]

Idk why you would be terrified of this fraud ass team. It’s the same shit every year. We’ll be one and done or get beat down again by somebody. Crazy how predictable they are

[@kenpearson6287]

Yes, you are spot on. Darnold got a practice game with championship pressure. His first rodeo on big time stage and pressure. You have to live it to learn it.

[@SkolValkyrie]

Darnold was locked up on Jefferson again, wasn't making his reads. Even that wide open pass to Speedy, he didn't hit him in stride. He would have gotten how many more yards.

[@Ulver1349]

Darnold's blocking from the Offensive Line was sad. Your HC failed to make the right adjustments.. he's already admitted that. Y'all scored zero TDs.. what's wrong with run game, then? If you noticed..more than half of Darnold's "bad passes", considering his received QB pressures/hurries he did what he could.. and half of the narrowly missed incompletions were timing issues by his WRs or failures to change their route/bail their QB out. Darnold made the Pro Bowl. You know, maybe they ought to put you in as QB.

[@evanstensland611]

@@Ulver1349get it out yo mouth, Darnold was really bad. Hes an NFL qb, it’s his job to hit wide open receivers.

[@Ulver1349]

@@evanstensland611 I want to say first that you read as someone that likely does not have more than a 5th grade education. Also, your football IQ is even lower (if that's even possible) than personal IQ. Exactly how many times did Sam Darnold have "wide open" targets to throw to? Second question: Factor in that he was hurried and pressured a majority of his throws.. you tell me, genius, how many of those "wide open" throws could he actually get enough time as a pocket passer to make, considering he was constantly being flushed from the pocket? Seems like the receivers routes were contested by Detroit's DBs to me. Just sayin'. Great blocking by the Vike's o-line, coupled by great calls by KOC to start with. They need you, though, bro, for their scouting Team. Great input.

[@zay7443]

Addison was wide open in the redzone

[@rickeyjones729]

yeah but when akers was lose i said get in because i knew they wasnt getting a TD if he didnt . just that kinda night but we playeed the number 1 team and now going to be humble and focused againt the rams.

[@bigsquatch125]

That always happens to Vikings where, a team they face has some continued issue but then play the Vikings and fix all their issues. But dude, the lions cbs were holding every play. Even that blind hair line backer with the broken arm, every time they showed his replays, he was holding

[@clolk5]

You ain’t lying at all 😂 in all my years this always happens

[@JackStraw1961]

Just following the NFL's script.

[@francisxayana]

every play there was holding or PI. You're telling me our wr1, wr2, & te1 can't get separation? shit was BS and then when we couldn't come back they started calling all the holding calls

[@Ulver1349]

😢😢😢

[@RafiqWashington-tx7id]

Nope they got shut down. A bunch of off target throws and drops

[@stephenlochray5020]

Sam was shook after the first red zone miss. Pissed down his leg. Get Reicherd and Darnold to the sports psychologist asap.

[@pat557]

Get Tony Robbins on the horn ASAP

[@jvarga2]

i hereby state that darnold's career , and life, peaked after last week's locker room celebration

[@Ulver1349]

It might help also if he wasn't in top 6 most sacked QBs. The Vikings Offensive line has issues... and I saw some poor play calling and misadjustments by your HC.

[@nellaikswokub139]

Right on brother. I’ve been screaming about this Oline for the past 4 years, it never gets fixed. Need some GIANT agile men that can’t be bull dozed

[@CarsonGottabag]

It dont matter when u have 3 300 plus pound retards for interior linemen Bradbury risner and brandel are trash yet here we are doing nothing in offseason to protect our guy and I honestly feel bad for jj McCarthy to

[@EvadeTime]

Whenever cashman would drop down and blitz the gb, Goff would simply dump the ball out to the exact position Cashman just left you would think the vikings would do the same after getting blitzed so much..

[@jiordone8563]

KOC was terrible with the play calling and non adjustments

[@christianmelena1749]

KOC and Flores got out coached

[@timcoughlin5834]

@@christianmelena1749big time yup.

[@nathanielsaba7384]

@@christianmelena1749 Flores didn’t get outcoached KOC did

[@oscarhess1376]

@@christianmelena1749Flo can’t have a defense play 4 quarters give great field position to the defense and then get zero touchdowns

[@codykoch8342]

Darnold showed his colors good qb but is not ready and I have no idea why we didn’t run the ball in the red zone

[@BenKraft-q2p]

If he was shook last night he will always be shook.

[@stevecochrane362]

@@BenKraft-q2p That's not true

[@codykoch8342]

@@BenKraft-q2p I agree with you mcarthy is the future

[@Kerr15]

Let’s be honest, how many times have we lost in prime time games with Kirk cousins… we were projected to get 6 wins with a rebuild. Team has played great we made the play offs. Yes we shit the bed against the lions but now we go and play were it matters in the playoffs. At the end of the day we weren’t suppose to even get this far

[@Kerr15]

@ I don’t think anyone accepts it. We want a ring we want playoff wins. The point is we payed 90million to Kirk for one play off win for years. So doing it with Sam Darnold and still having our cap space and our future QB there isn’t a bad thing. Shows a lot for this team to have up and coming.

[@mattt8889]

could be a quick one and done if they play the Rams like they did last time.

[@waynedavis2312]

I was like …why have we given up on the running game.. score was 6-10

[@AT-gi6me]

Also the team must run the ball. Running the ball eats up clock, rests the defense and sets up play action. The best defense is one that is on the side line as a result of a great offense.

[@ToddWilhelm]

Aaron Jones needs to figure out a way to stay on the field. I love the dude but next year the Vikings need to get a young stud like Gibbs.

[@rick_c1029]

Question: How did Goff not get called for intentional grounding? for a safety?

[@joshescalante4300]

Because the refs are rigged for the Lions and Chiefs right now 🤷

[@ClownCarCoup]

Yes. There were horrible calls that went both ways, but that one was inexplicable.

[@rickeyjones729]

@@ClownCarCoup lol and it didnt help when u called Darnold for it later in the game. lol

[@ifmbm332b]

For the same exact reason that Darnold got a brutal face mask sack and safety at the end of the Rams game that turned his head 90 degrees and nobody saw that either.

[@Cattle_Snacks]

Van Ginkel dropping that potential pick 6 in the 2nd half was a game changer. The Lions put up a TD shortly after to make it 24-9.

[@longislandebooks]

Sam Darnold was off mechanically in this game so I don’t think that would’ve mattered

[@AlPost-pv3st]

The defense more then did there part this game & situation was to big for Sam he was seeing ghosts & KOC had no answers

[@austinfriesen9892]

That intentional grounding play was a 9 point swing

[@Ulver1349]

​@@longislandebooks Darnold had poor blocking and was allowed little rhythm.. he was consistently hurried, pressured, flushed out of the pocket..and he got sacked 2 to 3 times, knocked down several times. The Vikes O-line has issues.. KOC was off. And even the running game could NOT score a TD.

[@deezpleez3832]

It is not the defense’s job to score touchdowns. Would’ve been great if AVG pulled that off, but the defense did MORE than enough last night. They were gassed late third and fourth quarter.

[@_stealth_313]

Darnold looked like he chugged 5 energy drinks before the game

[@JackStraw1961]

The NFL have chosen the Lions this year, just following the script.

[@buckhorncortez]

That will be the first time in 91 years that the "NFL have chosen the Lions..." BTW - NFL is a singular reference so the verb should be singular "has,"

[@JackStraw1961]

@@buckhorncortez Do you feel all superior now Poindexter?

[@JohnnyUtah-71]

If the NFL 'chooses" they certainly would've "chosen" the Vikings in '98 would've been a way better SB matchup and the Vikings were a way better storyline than the shitty dirty birds.

[@bestaff]

I have two not mutually exclusive theories about '98. 1. The NFL wasn't ready for a black coach and / or black quarterback to win the championship definitely not both....had to wait until the 2000s for that to happen you can't just polar plunge people come on! 2. Had to make Elway go out there n tip just before retirement...because I'm sorry...there is no way Elway is beating the '98 Vikings. I said it back then before the Falcons, we will either win 2 games or zero.

[@JackStraw1961]

@@bestaff Or when the nfl decided it was NO's turn, the only way the Vikings ever make it will be after a disaster of some kind in MN.

[@bigsquatch125]

Darnald was fidgety all game, literally, all game, he was in his head.

[@jamesbisbee1763]

Ya, he was seeing ghost again..../sigh

[@SIL-GMER]

Lions just laid out a blueprint for the rams Defense thats already beat them once this year, I dont wanna be that guy but... yeah...

[@brandonblock288]

Yeah if the Rams get the refs and can get pressure and get away with holds and DPIs and face mask sacks they should be able to replicate this game especially if Darnold can't hit throws.

[@SIL-GMER]

@brandonblock288 i think it's going to be a good game honestly. Darnold will determine the outcome

[@geoffreysaign364]

don't blame anyone for the offense except Oconnel and Darnold...

[@JackStraw1961]

@@bossman2873 As long as the seats are full nothing will change.

[@CarsonGottabag]

Are whole team is responsible kwesi included these Guys both need to be givin there 3rd strike im about tired of these losers

[@krombopulossal2032]

The O-line was absolutely terrible didn’t give Darnold any time he under pressure damn near the entire game

[@ThepathtoValhallagetsshorterev]

​@@bossman2873He did turn-around the Dolphins yet still got fired..His "lawsuit" MIGHT " be the tie -breaker tho.....js

[@Iriea09]

I wouldn't really blame the O line on this one. They did their job. Sam Darnold kept the ball too long and over thrown his recivers.

[@JackStraw1961]

The receivers were being held 90% on the time.

[@brandonblock288]

The O line struggled a ton and it wasn't like they were facing a great pass rush. They are 3rd and 4th string/practice squad players. The O line and offense as a whole needs to play better this week or we will be one and done.

[@thomasspears776]

Darnold was not mobile in the pocket. He just stood there in the same spots too long.

[@Bill-z5s]

Sam holds the ball too long. That has always been his problem since the beginning.

[@bigsquatch125]

The refs were absolutely terrible, what happened to the Gibbs spy?? The o-line played awful, Sam played awful, some questionable coaching calls, kicker, terrible, but…I’m not giving up on Darnald yet and I think it’s silly to do so.

[@JerryBerry-wg5kn]

!!!!!

[@toddschlegel2047]

When we get inside the 5-yard line in the red zone, why in the world is the option of running fullback CJ Hamm up the middle never on KOC's radar?

[@georgematsumoto6007]

Darnold was awful last night. When they basically got nothing after the first interception, I felt we were in trouble.

[@lonjacobs6268]

One of the worst exhibition of football play I have seen in awhile. Poor coaching, poor play calling, poor clock management, overall lack of player execution, not to mention our QB literally overthrowing the game.

[@lonjacobs6268]

It's frustrating, you wait all week and are so excited for the game and then its embarrassing. But thats Vikings football. Love them alwat

[@illwind56]

If you ignore the scoreboard, it was a close game. 🤣

[@Bluboy30]

KOC became Mike Matz last night and Darnold turned into a pumpkin. For those old enough to remember, Tom Brady's first Super Bowl win was against the Greatest Show on Turf. Martz was stubborn in that Super Bowl, he kept calling deep passing plays even though his QB and receivers were struggling. He has the best RB that year, Marshall Faulk but refused to run the ball. That's how KOC behave last night.

[@tomvan6008]

Agreed, KOC needs a backup when Sam is off. Even bring in Mullens he threw 400 yards last year against the Lions.

[@HOV4N]

And this is why the Vikings aren’t resigning Sam Darnold. They could do this with a rookie.

[@mattt8889]

@@bossman2873 a real coach? in Denver? its a clown show there at head coach

[@dumpstercheese]

Gibbs went cheat code beast mode. Give Detroit some flowers, refs were iffy at best

[@matthewrobinsonjr]

Yeah that throw to Addison at th 5 yard line in the begin the guy jumped him before the ball got there no call

[@KD-bd9rc]

We’re just slow on the backend Bynum couldn’t catch Gibbs no matter the angle he took

[@JackStraw1961]

Who knew that a lineman, with his back to the QB was an eligible receiver?

[@JCarr-i5r]

Iffy at best?! Not sure what game you were watching. Darnold’s targeting system was ass, but iffy is more than a stretch. The offense was playing against a stacked 17 Lions D all night.

[@RafiqWashington-tx7id]

​@@JackStraw1961those 2 points wouldn't of made a difference in that massacre

[@AT-gi6me]

You know I hope Brian Flores reads this. The defense has to do more man defense. The defense leaves to many gaping holes in the middle of the zone defense. Even if we need to get a fa corner or bring in McGlothern. Until then the defense is going to keep getting ate up on 3rd down in the middle of that zone.

[@TrippSC2]

Especially when you see that they're allowing the Lions to mug receivers. You have to at least attempt it more to see if you get the same leeway.

[@zay7443]

The defense did enough what you want them to stay on the field the whole game? The offense didn’t do shit

[@AT-gi6me]

@@zay7443 no. Just run more man defense.

[@StevenMarion-p8u]

Secondary iffy need younger players

[@swanksthetiger1169]

4 straight possessions inside Detroit 15.. 6pts.

[@ALexMcDunny]

They have done much better than I had expected. My pre-season guess was 7-9. Good on them. It's been a good season. Offensive line and play calling were as bad as Sam was.

[@edwardhanson5842]

Would the results have been different with McCarthy or any other QB? The O-line pooped the bed on almost every play. KOC kept calling plays that take too long to develop when there is no protection. If we can’t recognize our weaknesses and make mid game adjustments, we lose regardless of who the QB is.

[@brandonblock288]

Who knows, I just think all the missed throws just accented how poorly the offense played. Also lions got away with a lot of holds and early contact. Either way they didn't play to win. Hope this wakes them up for the rams game.

[@brandonblock288]

@@bossman2873 Well then get off the wagon, they might loss again but I just hope they at least show up.

[@zay7443]

If he didn’t miss those first three redzone drives the game would’ve been different

[@kipholscher1812]

On the bright side, it's hard to beat a team 2 or 3 times in a year. Not impossible of course, but hard. Rams next week. Can the Rams beat them twice? We'll see next Monday.

[@JackStraw1961]

The Lions did.

[@johnerickson4064]

Yes, yes they can... welcome to the vikings clown show

[@lifeasafanpodcast9529]

Honestly I am less worried now that we lost this game.. I think we will be fine after this .. I think the team needed a wake up call starting so slow and messing up redzone opportunities

[@johnn.marshall4566]

Facts 💯

[@jaywysard]

I"m not so sure of that. I think the defense is OK, but Darnold's been overthrowing badly, his tendency to hold the ball too long has been getting worse, and KOC hasn't adjusted to these problems by going short. Instead, he keeps insisting on trying to get 20 yards on every play. It's a bad trend.

[@DNHarris]

Your wake up call was the first time the Lions beat you, at your home field.

[@1p4g]

Both games this year, the vikings gave the gameaway, if they play again vikings all the way,

[@garret4466]

As frustrating as that game was last night, if you would have told me at the start of the year that the Vikings would have 14 wins and be in the playoffs I would take it in a heartbeat! The season is NOT over!

[@TheLAGopher]

The only silver lining to the Detroit debacle is that as a Minnesota transplant in SOCAL I will be able to see the Vikings play Monday Night. Then again.I was at the last Vikings/Rams game in October and that didn't go so well.

[@jackmarquardson9023]

Since it's "tell the truth Monday"...Darnold holds on to the ball far too long on every passing play, every game, and then we blame the O-line. He just doesn't see the field well and that's never going to change...Regardless of yesterday's performance, we'd be foolish to keep Darnold at what is likely $40+ million a year, when McCarthy's rookie contract will be $1 M or $2 M a year. Use that extra money to improve other areas...Take play calling duties away from KOC. He's a terrible play caller, who has no idea what to do in the red zone or when we only need a yard or two for a first down or a touchdown.

[@jaywysard]

I agree with Andy...KOC needs to stop wanting 20 yards on every pass play. They need better short pass play designs and a short yardage power back. They rely way too much on big pass plays to bail them out. But you're right...Darnold does hold the ball way too long and with the way he's been sailing his passes I'm surprised he hasn't thrown more INTs.

[@jaredrupprecht1503]

Great coverage as always! This game was no different than any game they've played this season. They don't/can't run the ball when they need to. Darnold throwing late and high. He's done that all season. Addison, Jefferson and Hock bail him out of many off throws. They give up waaaaay too many points in the second half while the offense stalls. They had three decisive wins this season (Houston/Atalanta/Chicago). The rest of them were coin tosses that came down to the wire because the offense stalls putting too much pressure on the defense in the second half. This has been consistent all season. This is the 2022 Vikings on repeat. It's been a great season. Loved it overall. A fun ride. Rams 31 Vikings 17.

[@jaywysard]

@@bossman2873 Oh please

[@qgreen2385]

Can’t say I’m not nervous going into LA next week. But hoping for the best SKOL

[@skeetpete6116]

Lack of a running game in the red zone is the real issue. We can't expect Darnold to play at an all-pro level every game.

[@lolit3354]

Poor Sam, last week he was the hero and one of the best! Seems like he was not expected to commit any mistakes! Remember it’s his first year in Vikings! Give Darnold a break, he is doing the very best he could!

[@rudypeal6489]

We get to watch our favorite team for another Sunday go on the hunt in a revenge game🤷🏾‍♂️ let’s enjoy the ride Vikings fan remember this a rebuilding year

[@yajinvasion]

This team need an elite rb, Jones is good but pass his prime and hes injury. Your rb will alleviate all those pressure off your qb

[@JinduPindu]

Lions Oline reminds me of 2017 eagles oline

[@Farold_Haltermeyer]

Oof, that hurt. Opinions aside the fact was that Darnold played how he did because the Lions had coached and strategised SPECIFICALLY to target the Vikings very obvious weak points. They had our number. KOC and staff didn’t seem to b3 reacting to that very obvious Achilles targeting. Was a tough and avoidable loss. Dust off and back at ‘em lads

[@brotherdaniel9415]

Hurts to say it but TOTALLY outcoached!

[@Farold_Haltermeyer]

@@brotherdaniel9415 rarely disagree with Andy but I thought their D was better planned and smarter too. Plus Goof had said before the game "they really only have 2 modes on D beneath all the bluster, and if they play one I'll take advantage of that...I'd they play the other I've got a plan for that", and as the game went on you can see he got their number and did exactly that, only some phenomenal individuals held us in it as the game plan crumbled. Outcoached/out-thought

[@danielgaray961]

So many years now and the Vikings continue to not fix their biggest flaw which is the interior of the offensive line!!!! Those guys get manhandled all the time.

[@dans.7002]

Interior has been trash since Matt Birk left.

[@MPete1896]

Darrisaw absence is hugely impactful.

[@scottdornblaser4470]

Thank you for the perspective. You talked me off the ledge. :-)

[@duckroasty6156]

Watching this before sunrise on the west coast. Going to trust you that the sun will come out today! Feeling them purple blues.

[@ryanmclellan8740]

Tag or tag and trade Darnold. J Double is our future.

[@DarkTranqz]

4:30 look at that freaking stallion lol. I hope he's been learning a ton and can put some of it into actual effective practice. Can't wait to see him light it up.

[@marknadolski1949]

Why not run the ball with Jones on the 3 yard line instead of passing 7 xs in a row

[@218music]

Andy, I’m in Duluth and my moms a lions fan. The sun has not rose yet, I’m still coping😂

[@mitchellharding2423]

Those Duluth winters sound rough!

[@SeekJesus27]

If we lose next week, the best thing about that is that the Darnold long-term narrative is dead. That would be awesome.

[@nickyates9820]

You bring up many valid points - The bullet point at the top of my list is KOC's playcalling. Sammy D got flustered because the defense knew that they could wreak havoc on him in the way that he was being told to play within KOC's scheme. Trying to hang onto the ball for a long time and going for the big play doesn't work the best vs aggressive blitzing vs an over-rated offensive line. We should have had and always should have an up-tempo offense that gets the ball out of Sammy D's hand quickly in our back pocket. Otherwise good D coordinators will exploit us as so.

[@Ineed2fabb]

Vikings derailment is due to the offensive line being non-existent. One of the best receiving teams couldn't catch a beach ball props to the lions for their defensive derailment of vikings offensive woes this was a team loss. Totally let the lions roar let them rest next time they meet will be epic !...

[@ernieferguson9513]

I love this team, but I've kept my expectations in check. From what I saw last night, this team has no business being in the SB. Doing what they've done for over 60 years and counting.

[@JohnnyUtah-71]

Yeah, they go from hoisting Darnold on their shoulders one week to him looking awful the next. Next game is Monday prime time and I'm fully expecting an embarrassing one and done. And, watch the Packers beat the Eagles pouring salt in the wound.

[@mattt8889]

@@JohnnyUtah-71 the Vikes will be a long shot to win on the road but if Hurts plays, the Packers have no chance.

[@JohnnyUtah-71]

@@mattt8889 I would be able to sit back and relax watching the Vikings @ Philly. Knowing they would be extreme long shots would be less stressful watching. IMO

[@dbla87]

This is why I'm always cautiously optimistic. I know the season isn't over and I really hope this is a reality check for KOC that he needs to make adjustments. The Lions struggled in the first half but they made adjustments and took over in the second half, this is what great teams do. Off to LA!

[@kenpearson6287]

KOC got off track on using motion and play action on offense. Attach on quick hitting passes and it opens the deep routes. A lose at the right time. The gift of last night was they showed where your weaknesses are. Time to make adjustments. Skol

[@SaintCroixTroy]

How's JJ's recovery going? Vikes will be 1 and done like usual

[@clarkthesharkk]

14-3 - Sam had a really bad night. I think he’s earned the right to be able to show to us whether or not this was just one of those bad nights every quarterback has. If he doesn’t show up for LA then I get it. It’s warranted but if he balls out during LA and eventually gets us to the NFC championship or Super Bowl he’s earned the right to be our quarterback

[@VikeMe]

And still better than your team. Let me guess your one of these new found dik riding lions fans huh

[@jaywysard]

@@clarkthesharkk Agreed. But I think the guy's tired. He's been missing high pretty consistently and holding the ball way, way too long. That's partly on KOC play designs and in this game, there was a lot of holding and grabbing by DBs that wasn't called. But when guys are open, you've got to make the throws and he just flat out missed not one or two, but at least 6 wide open guys for scores or critical plays in the first half and he missed them badly. Really badly. I mean, it was JV football type stuff. It's no bueno for sure.

[@clarkthesharkk]

@@jaywysard it was hard to watch that’s for sure. But after reading all these comments, I was curious so I went and looked at some bad performances in crucial games by elite QBs. They all have had games like this. From everything I’ve seen with Sam his evolution this year the way he’s played during clutch moments. Another games with significance. I just don’t see a downward spiral coming I see a young man that has shown himself what he can do who has an entire team behind him and who is going to bounce back ferociously. I could be wrong. I just don’t think I will be.

[@jaywysard]

@@clarkthesharkk Yeah...there's a lot of truth in what you're saying. Every QB has bad games. Shit happens. What I'm more concerned about is not the one bad game necessarily, but the trend at this time of the year. He's had bad play at critical times in the last two games. Sure, he was 20/28 at GB. That's great...I don't expect him make every single pass. But he also missed a wide open JJ (overthrown and not under a lot of pressure) for a first down at a critical time in the game, Reichard missed a FG on the next play, the wheels came off the cart and we almost lost the game. I'm just saying. I hope he's able to make corrections, but I don't know.

[@TylerSmith-vz3ch]

Van ginkel is a BEAST and our IDL is a force vs the run just need that pressure from the middle. Cam Robinson has filled in aa best he can but darrisaw is levels above him and his absence is showing. Bradbury needs to go or gain above 30 lbs of muscle. We need a short yardage bruising runner. Josh Oliver is the best TE on the team and need to look at options with hockenson in the off season. Mekhi and Murphy Jr could be an elite db duo next year. Overall year 1 of koc/bflo/kami rebuilding this team with theyre vision and overcoming major preseason injuries and the passing of KJ id say this is one of the most fun and successful seasons for the vikes in my time watching since 96 and legit the most promising the future has felt since the moss/culpepper prime years. Sam has been really good sometimes great but his lack of control/accuracy in the mid level and over the middle passing game holds this offense back

[@Ty_D_Skol]

This reminded me of 41 doughnut, and I felt the game was MORE lopsided than the score indicated

[@robertmurdock8164]

Last night was very informative and the message is loud and clear the vikings arent ready for prime time and wont return to Detroit this year It wasnt just the loss but the way they lost The vikings had a good year but they proved they arent ready for the bright lights

[@craigweimer9480]

This game crushed me to watch. Honestly, I had high hopes for this one. All across the offense was a failure. Not 1 part, all parts. I hope we bounce back and crush the Rams

[@billz4795]

Both sides of the ball had the FLU - that's right it had to be - the whole team. Darnold again and again always looking for the glory throw when others are wide open. Defense zero except for one big hit. Detroit displayed what ball control is all about, and what a run game can do for you.

[@LadyBirch]

JJ Mc looks like he taking notes. Hope he is learning something valuable for next years with us.

[@Como651]

Walking into the office this morning was like a funeral. Everyone was depressed over this humiliating loss to the Lions who were without 7 starters on defense and 8 before the end of the game, yet still managed to play shut down defense all night. No one in Minnesota has any hopes of the Vikings reaching the Super Bowl after what just happened. I could not bare to watch the ending and shut off my TV in the 4th quarter. Next Monday is going to be one and done if KOC can’t get more creative on the play calls. This game was worse than watching Jake Paul beat Mike Tyson.

[@JohnnyUtah-71]

100% agree. I too couldn't stomach any more mid 3rd qtr and went to bed. Vikings are always producing embarrassing media headlines. ALWAYS to the negative, always.

[@dr.bonscott3962]

Darnold holding the ball way too long.. calling downfield plays when we needed quick release plays.. redzone play calling & special teams F-

[@Houligans]

Defense was not fine. Turnovers were great but we can’t stop dudes with speed

[@oscarhess1376]

They got two turnovers and forced many punts. It is hard to win when your offense is terrible. Two airmails over the best contested catch WR in the NFL.

[@PrinceCobraJFS]

Cam bynum was terrible. No safety help whatsoever from him

[@VikeMe]

What do you mean. They played hell of a game. Darnold choked on the tds. We should’ve been up like 3 scores. I guess you’re one of these new dik riding lions fans huh. Or someone who don’t watch and talk trash to say defense played bad.

[@VikeMe]

@oscarhess1376he must be one of these new dik riding lions fans from two years ago

[@brandonblock288]

Held to what should of been 7 in the 1st half. They kept getting stops on defense all for the offense to score what 9 points. Talk about demoralizing, never got time to rest off the field I wouldn't think they could hold them to nothing all game. At some point the offense needs to be able to put up points. Idk how many plays they had within the 10 (felt like all pass plays even with 2 yards to go) but that is unacceptable.

[@setsailatnoon]

The uncalled safety on Goff’s intentional grounding in the end zone was deflating.

[@rcnthusiast]

Darnold, now, has has two really bad games. He's bounced back and we win in big chunks. 3-4 more games is within his reach. My only concern is how many games (at least three in a row) that he is sailing the ball, with this last game being his worst. He's either not stepping into his throws or that pinky is a problem. I don't necessarily agree with the o-line critique for this game. Sam missed his reads early, in my opinion. I think with the man coverage by the Lions, Sam was always looking for Jets first. It was that 3rd or 4th red zone visit where he had a receiver (right side) wide open on the in route in the end zone. Sam didn't even look that way, but then rolled out of the pocket and scrambled to the right. But by then, the receiver was well within the middle of the end zone and covered. I agree that B-Flo outcoached Johnson, but Johnson outcoached KOC when it came to handling the QB pressure.😮‍💨

[@jaywysard]

I think Darnold is tired. His fundamentals are breaking down which makes him miss throws which erodes his confidence which makes him hold the ball too long. Plus, I agree with Andy: KOC wants 20 yards with every pass play. Come on, man. Mix in some West Coast..slants, curls...build Sam's confidence, then go down field.

[@jaywysard]

@@bossman2873 OK...whatever you say.

[@stuartanderson6785]

Will the Thrill was supposed to be the answer. Yet, somehow, the Vikings kicker curse rears its ugly head again.

[@kevinanders9479]

BLOWN SAFTEY CALLS, HOLDING CALLS, MISSED FG's and Attemps: coaching descision-? 😮 Where did Darnold go last night?? MG!

[@thetiger9089]

I seen a few facemasks to add to the mix.

[@colingordon0986]

We all know these games are scripted! I already knew Detroit was gonna win once they where favored at the start of the week

[@jamesbuchanan3102]

I couldn’t have summed that up better we look like doodoo

[@anthonyweringa3771]

Back to factory settings

[@kipholscher1812]

That missed Safety could have been a momentum changer.

[@g0ofy559]

The ref literally iced will

[@g0ofy559]

@bossman2873 No, we stunk. I'm just pointing out the kick. Will was the only one putting up points.

[@rfahy72]

Here are my takes on the game lastnight. Darnold had his worst game of the year. Overthrowing everyone. The Lions D Coordinator outsmarted KOC's play calling. This is going to affect Darnolds chances of staying in Minnesota next year. The offensive line for the Vikings were giving Darnold all the time in the world. I just can't believe no one was open.

[@jvarga2]

one saving grace (potentially) is 2005 (or so) vikes were 8-8 and got smoked twice by the Favre-led pack during the season.. but were able to rebound and actually beat them in the wild card round.. so perhaps a glimmer, should they get past LA

[@bradleyschoolcraft5774]

Exactly!! Your absolutely right on almost all of it! So WHY would we have any confidence in Darnold or Riekert in the playoffs???!!!

[@dumpstercheese]

TJ Hackenson got mauled endlessly.. even if the pass was late and sailed 🤔

[@rudyg1272]

Love how positive thing man is, we got this. Skol🎉🎉🎉🎉

[@richardsmith3772]

1: Oline 2: Game plan: More midrange passes play and plays using Darnolds legs

[@tristajeanette1990]

After we were down 24-9 I was hoping they'd throw Mullens in to give Sam a break. Hopefully we activate Jones for the Rams game in case Sam is off again and we could have options.

[@threespeak4461]

I still hope we win the Super Bowl but hopefully this saves us from giving Darnold a long term contract. He’s a product of the coaching, same as Kirt was. We can get the same or better out of Jones or JJ.

[@derekbaker3279]

Excellent points from Andy! Here a few of my takes... 1. I am going to be a party-pooper here: Fact: There is absolutely ZERO guarantee that JJ McCarthy *IS* the future. Yes, he looked good in training camp & in one pre-season game, and, yes, he totally deserves a chance to develop & prove himself...BUT he must NOT be crowned heir to the throne yet! The uncomfortable truth is that the vast majority of first round QBs look great in college, even win/compete for the National College Championship, look great in pre-season THEN never become a team's 'saviour' (top-notch franchise QB). Nobody *knows* whether or not JJ McCarthy will be a 'flop'..not Kwesi A-M, not KOC, not Josh McCown....nobody. Yes, KOC is 'The QB Whisperer', and I agree that McCarthy looks like he COULD be the Vikes' franchise QB going forward, but there is *absolutely no guarantee that McCarthy WILL be the Vikes' franchise QB* . If we're going to play 'armchair GM' (one of my favourite games...lol), we must no make any assumptions. 2. Andy. Kudos for your comments re the O-line! I cannot adequately express how sick and tired I am of years & years of watching top-level offensive talent at the skill positions being sabotaged by a sh*tty O-line. If Kwesi A-M does not totally revamp the iOL in the off-season...and JJ McCarthy becomes starting QB, we'll be looking at another Andrew Luck situation (..where an extremely promising young QB was almost beaten to death by opposing defences & eventually had to retire before reaching his full potential..)! Heck, if I am Sam Darnold, I may feel that I cannot improve my skills with this crappy iOL, and decide to ask for a trade to a team that can actually protect me & block for the RBs! 3. BTW, how many teams HAVE beaten a team 3 times in a season? I know that it has happened, but probably not more than a few times!

[@josiamuller6024]

It was so sad to see how KOC just ran the ball in situations, where everyone knew a run was coming like at the beginning of a drive. It felt like he only ran it a few times because it seems to be calm and courtesy from his perspective.

[@michaelehlert9]

No answer for the blitzing. Surprised with all that time KOC spent in NE. So many chances to take this game.

[@AC130EYEZ]

I’ll be at this game on Monday, 2nd time at sofi this year. Skol let’s get this win

[@KenHeying]

In the end, it was just a game. No reason to loose your mind over it. I am sure we will figure it out.

[@johnerickson4064]

Vikings have been trying to "figure it out" since 1961

[@hamwallet7069]

I wanna ask jj and Addison how the “best duo in the league” couldnt manage to get open 70% of the time in man coverage lol

[@kolfibrown6540]

Hmmm you must be a Lions fan

[@jiordone8563]

Nobody was getting open on the majority of plays.

[@ZuyaSica]

Amon-ra better than Jets?? 🤔

[@Reptar11]

​@@ZuyaSicanever. That douchebag who plays for the lions is the most overrated wr in the league

[@metallica990z]

Cause getting overthrown by your QB shows your not open???

[@JH-wk9gw]

As much as I wanna blame darnold. The receivers were not getting open for many of those throws. He did miss many open shots but man the coverage was pretty good.

[@JackStraw1961]

They were being held 90% of the time.

[@Matt-33]

Darnold overthrew every pass attempt, took delay of game penalties, and couldn't get rid of the ball quick enough. That pretty much sums it up. The defense was solid, although DET torched the secondary gaps all night long, especially on the blitz. No denying who the better football team is. Hopefully Darnold got the jitters out and has a much improved game against the Rams. Should be a Victory.

[@franciscomcconnell4973]

JJ is a winner and has been at the biggest stage and won , Hes the man for the Job

[@daviddeking2676]

The failure of the offense in last night's game can be put squarely on the shoulders of the middle of the o-line. The Lions pushed the middle of the pocket most of the night leaving no room for Darnold to step up and make the throws we seen him do all season. KOC should have made an adjustment to the play calling to get more quick hitter pass plays to let the offense get some rhythm in the passing game.