Kevin O'Connell: I Love This Team But You Have To Play To A Certain Standard and We Did Not Do That

[@BowlMN847]

Went from hoisting darnold up in the locker room after sweeping the packers, to losing the division title, first round bye, and throwing one total TD in the process over the last 8 quarters and getting eliminated. Truly a Minnesota team.

[@LadyBirch]

Well, he does need the coverage. Obviously, he gets nervous if he knows he’s not gonna have the time he needs, and then he forgets that he can scramble and doesn’t look down the line to all his options. He just needs to have a better offensive line.

[@BowlMN847]

@@LadyBirch Offensive line looked solid all season, even with Cam Robinson coming in for darrisaw half way through the season. They just unfortunately disappeared in 2 of the biggest games of the season for us.

[@DillonPatterson-co7be]

I don't have the stats but how many coaches start their career going to the playoffs and then do it again 2 years later? He's been at this 3 years, that's middle school. Give the guy a break. Zimmer was not our guy at all and he had been at it for quite some time.

[@Chromono22]

@@LadyBirchi think he just needed experience in pressure situations. He clearly broke down in the face of pressure. He never HAD this kind of weight on his back before. The regular season isn’t as stressful as games like these last two. At all. If he gets another shot playing QB1 at all, he just needs to learn how to carry it. Half a year plus of prepwork and improvement can 100% do that for him. He has a great group of QBs to work with on the Vikings.

[@BowlMN847]

@@DillonPatterson-co7be KOC is solid, there’s a handful of games this season though where there was not many 2nd half adjustments and teams creeped back into the game. With tonight, I understand darnold had a lot of pressure, but we needed to hurry up the offense and not do so many small running plays. Just stings after so many wins.

[@oDazzleRazzle]

I must be sick in the head because I’ll be back next season to do it all over again

[@zaragoza44]

Hahahahha so freakin true

[@flaviosalastoriz6432]

No man! I’m not trying to hype up another team but look at Detroit… yes they proved it by almost going to the Super Bowl but if you can find the right pieces like OL DT AND CB this team is playoff bound

[@flaviosalastoriz6432]

Now Detroit fans are the most cocky fans right now just on one offseason with almost same players on offense and revamped defense

[@haveaseatsir]

The secret is to have more than 1 team you root for. Rooting only for the Vikes is a recipe for depression and letdowns year after year.

[@tsix8987]

@@haveaseatsirmore than one team? That’s like having more than one wife….

[@djr260]

No urgency. No adjustments. Clock management was atrocious in the 2nd half. Epic collapse that seems to be internal.

[@MrHim2121]

Let’s just run the ball 2 minutes left of the 3rd, let’s just not run a play before the 3rd quarter ends

[@StillKeepOnLosing]

Anyone see where Jjettas is? Bro took the bag $$$ and went MIA.

[@keaghan6760]

@@MrHim2121do you expect them to just throw hail Mary’s every play, the game was over after half even the players were giving up

[@StressNmeowt]

​@@keaghan6760score was 3-23; at half and we got the ball to start had we scored anything we'd have been back in the game.. there's two halves to each game for a reason

[@gifi11]

His clock management has been horrible all season. He isn't a good HC.

[@mikebrown1142]

You can't just throw deep routes all night when there's ZERO running game ....Especially with an offensive line that can't pickup basic D-line stunts ...You can run a 5yd slant nobody is gonna be mad at it

[@lukelee3]

He did.......in the last 2 minutes in the 4th quarter down 18 😅🤣

[@mikebrown1142]

@@lukelee3HaHa! Sad but True

[@monsterpeanutsparkle5624]

Fix the O line is the most pressing issue

[@gifi11]

We need a new center that's about it. The OL did not cost us this game. The 90s Cowboys OL can't block for 10 seconds that's just dumb. KOC calling nothing but deep routes and Sam holding the ball all night can make any OL look bad

[@davionhunt]

​@@gifi11FACTS

[@grahamculbertson6920]

@@gifi11there were quick options on most of the plays and Darnold just held onto the ball.

[@jstan7321]

@@grahamculbertson6920yes

[@gifi11]

@grahamculbertson6920 literally. He was seeing ghost is the best way to describe it. Seeing things that weren't there. He was gun shy.

[@jzsoldje8593]

13 and 14 wins mean nothing if you can’t win playoff games. Love KOC but these let downs aren’t championship caliber football.

[@brandonmartin6943]

Way to say the most obvious and meaningless words possible.

[@Greenlights111]

@@brandonmartin6943f outta here ass. Worthy comment I agree with the dude.

[@skolvikings354]

Kwesi and Koc need to level up. They were not close against Det and LA Rams.

[@jzsoldje8593]

everyone is calling for KOC head right now. Over jarring reactions left and right. Yes what I said is obvious but it’s also true. We have a quality coach who is building the right team culture but if he can’t deliver in the playoffs then we need to look elsewhere again. Stop being a salty baby

[@mikelasjo6507]

​@@brandonmartin6943 truth hurts

[@tthom8297]

Made History tonight 9 sacks given up in the post season congratulations.

[@jamescaraballo4577]

Not only that, vikings have the most playoff losses now in the nfl

[@scottsickich2853]

Complete and utter embarrassment

[@wjbt3]

Truly a SKOL moment

[@morganboyd581]

But watch them draft a RB or WR in the first round. So stupid.

[@jamescaraballo4577]

@@morganboyd581 ngl we do need a young rb to fit with j.j.

[@robjohnson4059]

Gut the friggin interior line and protect McCarthy. Going nowhere without that.

[@martiboxwell9680]

Exactly. If the Vikings dont establish an effective running game, it wont matter who the QB is.

[@kargs5krun]

If no beef up the OL with pro bowl talent, then JJMc is a "dead man walking. " (Actually, more like a "sitting duck ")

[@LuigidiArmani]

Damn it! This team always sucks in the most important games 🤬 9 sacks today? WTF!

[@Nazgull2k1]

thats what happens when yer QB chokes and refuses to get rid of the ball because he's scared shitless under them lights homie.

[@xBridgeFour]

FIX THE GOD DAMN OFFENSIVE LINE

[@DannyMiller-e7l]

Did the crappy coach

[@DannyMiller-e7l]

Stop he held ball to long

[@adambrunner9462]

Yeah what he said!!

[@lukelee3]

Darnold caused half the sacks at minimum, his processing speed just isn't nfl level. That's it.

[@XRudySXx]

Need another nose tackle and 3 new lineman we have good offensive tackles one who is injured but ya garret bradbury. Needs to leave he is terrible the fact he’s been on the team this long is diabolical

[@martiboxwell9680]

The Vikings interior line is atrocious. For the love of God, Please spend some equity on interior line on both sides of the ball. The Vikings were severely overmatched in these areas.

[@Score1more]

Ever since they threw water on Sam, He’s been melting down like the wicked witch in Oz . This team is always on the wrong side of history.

[@Rich-NH]

Fans aren’t looking for a “brotherhood”; they want a winning team that doesn’t embarrass them in big games.

[@SammySarzoza]

Exactly. 59 years of "brotherhood"

[@lincolnchafee9602]

@@Rich-NH so I'm a relatively new fan of sports in general... But it seems like more toxic environments yield more wins? Idk like the dynamic with belechik and Brady... Is the warm feel good environment only good for the regular season or what lol seems like the less wholesome teams do better

[@Rich-NH]

@ It’s a valid point, but I think “discipline” is a better word here than “toxic.” You can be tough but fair. You’re playing to win, not playing for hugs after the game.

[@lincolnchafee9602]

@@Rich-NH I guess toxic maybe isn't the right word but I think you get what I meant... I guess personally I've outwardly performed at my job (software engineering) better when I had a tough manager that was always on me about stuff. But the burnout I suffered later was super debilitating. I know it's not the same as pro sports but it's hard for me to see young guys getting yelled at etc on the sidelines...

[@brandonblock288]

Yeah I mean if it was that easy that would be cool.

[@Woog87]

The sad part is that he gave up in the third and didn't have any fight.

[@DillonPatterson-co7be]

At no point did I see this man give up. I'm not sure what you're talking about. If he was anything like me he was still pissed off about that scoop and score that was robbed from us.

[@jaxon1913.]

@@DillonPatterson-co7bea running play and not calling a play with 33 seconds left in the 3rd quarter? Still trying to run the ball with 7 minutes left.

[@fenom7939]

our oline got BULLIED.

[@cyrus12345]

Still can’t believe it man

[@Darth_Atrius]

First year as a Vikes fan?

[@cyrus12345]

@@Darth_Atriussadly not

[@rupturegg8564]

@@Darth_Atriusnope but this year really felt different 💔

[@tsix8987]

Felt it coming after last week unfortunately. O line needs retooling, we need to protect JJ next year. Our D line was also getting gashed in the run game and not winning the line of scrimmage. I still love this team, just felt off these last two weeks.

[@jakefez1031]

I can

[@alta58043]

Got outcoached again.

[@augustusgyamfi3256]

Sam and the O line gave up 10 sacks and an int. KOC can't pass, rush, or defend the ball its on the players. Sam played terrible and barely used his legs

[@SincerelyJnC]

KOC didnt get out coach. Name me a coach who can make Sam Darnold a winner in the playoffs? I dont think one exists.

[@jeffreyseverson135]

No, just got outplayed once our QB got stuck in flight mode

[@brent4723]

Yes. But Sean McVay is already beast mode. What KOC learns on his summer vacation will determine if he belongs in Sean's company. If Sam failed his final exam, KOC failed his midterm. His growth will be the most important factor for the Vikings to compete with the best in 2025.

[@gifi11]

​@augustusgyamfi3256 he literally calls the plays. Are you dumb? If you know about the OL you don't think KOC does? Then why call nothing but deep routes all season? Makes absolutely 0 sense. But keep defending him. You sound nuts

[@jodo6791]

I just wanna know, WHY… WHY are you running seams on a 4th and 2? 9 sacks and you think Darnold has enough time to dart it 30 yards? Give me a break!

[@jacobhron4054]

Thanks coach Koc great season I loved watching the group this year rough loss yesterday but I'm always a fan of the team 💯

[@robjohnson4059]

Apalling showing. No excuses.

[@jeffreyseverson135]

Darnold is still holding onto the ball

[@Garyisgud]

To this very second he's still holding onto that mf😂

[@jeremy5883]

💜💛💜💛 SKOL !! i had fun this season but it sucks it ends like this 😔

[@nikkicovington6389]

Yes that how I feel with having a good season into the worst ending season.

[@LadyBirch]

Time management I mean come on there were 2 x’s you or Samd D should've called a time out! Why can’t you change up the defensive strategy if it’s not working for you? Take time out and remind Sam of what he needs to do. I mean, what is the deal with you guys freezing in the last two games? Thank you for the great 14 wins. It still means a lot to me. I’ll always be back year after year been since 1971. I have to thank you for a fun season and as far as I’m concerned, pretty successful. But you gotta do what you say you know is wrong. You gotta fix it. You can’t just get up every time and say what the problem is and never fix it.

[@DillonPatterson-co7be]

While I agree with you on just about every you said, this isn't a leaky pipe that can be fixed in a jiffy, this is a BIG job and to "fix it" is not as simple as it sounds. First 3 years as a HC and he's brought us to the playoffs twice, pretty damn impressive. I think moving forward we're going to see him really come alive.

[@gopher4life1]

Get a LG, RG and Center to protect JJ. Draft a younger RB. Get a DT from FA. Darnold ain't it unless he comes back on another $10 m deal to back up JJ.

[@sandyborzillo8595]

Agreed. Need corners too

[@jeffpike-pq7ux]

Agree with all of that, just wish we had draft picks to help.

[@SodaWasDeleted]

Disappointing performance by KOC the last two weeks. Sam also turned into Nathan Peterman, but dang you start to question if KOC is the right play caller moving forward. I get he’s learning, but we’ll see if it’s improved with McCarthy.

[@ByronRodriguez87]

What can you do with inept QB play? Playcalling is fine.

[@CringeComedyTV]

Dude is out of his Depth as a Play Caller! 0 in game adjustments, 0 clock mgmt., 0 sense of urgency, and 0 ability to adapt!

[@haveaseatsir]

KOC wasn’t getting sacked and throwing terrible passes, or fumbling.

[@zack7569]

This game is not on KOC. His only coaching mistakes came from having too much confidence in Sam darnold

[@gopher4life1]

Sam was at fault for 1/2 of his sacks. Thought he was smart and athletic...dude didn't throw away the ball. He just ran backwards so he can lose more yds on a sack. 😂

[@stevencheng5722]

KOC better take a long look at himself this off-season

[@brandonblock288]

For over performing in the regular season. It was a rebuild and things went better than expected but not good enough yet for the run. It's his 3rd year, you cant expect instant SB wins

[@whitegoodman7465]

@@brandonblock288 Last year was Dan Campbells 3rd year too..NFC championship game..this fckn team cant even get past the wild card..KOC is a shit play caller, simple as that.

[@robinroupe9940]

He’s not going anywhere.

[@JR-ut1yx]

Absolutely

[@hunniebe6]

@@brandonblock288 No, for under performing in the playoffs.

[@skyhawk4946]

Sixty-plus years of choking and embarrassment have to stop. The problem is it's never going to stop.

[@RonaldRivinius]

Until it stops. Until then, it won’t. 🙏🙏🙏

[@StillKeepOnLosing]

DET and GB era just starting lulz. 3 of the worst drafts in vikes history.... oh boy. Try again in 15 years.

[@Verhiu]

@@StillKeepOnLosingOff-season acquisitions were still arguably the best in franchise history. Go look at the additions and their stats/accolades. Addison was a great pick, and McCarthy could be too, go watch Brett Kollmans analysis on McCarthy here on KZbin. Also turner could be great too but it’s hard to get playing time behind two guys with 12.5 sacks

[@Babyboots1]

People said the same thing about the lions and look where they are now. Good things can come.

[@StillKeepOnLosing]

@Babyboots1 You got politicians as owner who hired a blonde politician and wallstreet to run the team. Can you tell it sounds like a disaster? Oh wait..

[@MONEYMLV]

It was a fun season, but it was easy to see because the last two games why no one took this team seriously. Darnold played well this season but I think it’s safe to say Darnold doesn’t handle playoff pressure very well. Need better answers for the blitz instead of holding the ball and taking a sack everytime. Darnold has an elite skill set but if Darnold can’t adjust to how teams are playing him and he can’t take advantage of it, then he will always be limited. Time to see what McCarthy can do coach! We still believe you can put together a team that can win a championship. SKOL

[@Isosceles8818]

I think the worst part for me is watching how dissapointed my father was watching the game. We grew up loving football together and as he's gotten older he's generally lost interest because the NFL is a bloated corporate organization. But he really started to buy into the Vikings this year and predicted proudly they would win the super bowl. I haven't seen him this invested in football again since I was playing. But by the end of the game all he could do was recede back into his pessimistic Viking Fandom that we've all had forever. Truly dissapointing. The one stat he couldn't get over is that of all the 4 major sports leagues we are the oldest organization in history of all 4 sports to never win a championship. Isn't that great? And we continued that curse today. Thank you Minnesota Vikings for coming out and not showing an ounce of grit. Not a morsel of fight in you. Just rolled over and died. What proud fans my father and I get to be now this entire offseason. Just continuing the disillusioned Fandom we participate in for at least the next year. Thank you.

[@AnthonyVogt-t3t]

Feel your pain for sure, and yet, we’ll be right there next year screaming SKOL!! We bleed purple. Go Vikes!

[@sepiusolutions]

Stop with all this bs talk. This team was not prepared from the get go. I can't blame Sam Darnold alone. This coaching staff failed the entire team.

[@lukelee3]

Literally all week should have been practicing slant throws and middle throws within 2 seconds. Terrible. KOChoke sucks.

[@brandonblock288]

​@@lukelee3troll

[@lukelee3]

@@brandonblock288 you must be his wife. Stick to blowing KOChoke. 😅🤣😂😅🤣😂😅🤣😂

[@DillonPatterson-co7be]

Another fun season Kevin. Forget the haters, they're always going to want to pin this on someone and sadly they can't see beyond you and Darnold. Took a QB that everyone thought was washed and brought us to the playoffs 14-3. Hell of a coach.

[@robe2504]

100%. They need more true and steadfast fans like you.

[@jodo6791]

This guy would make a fantastic used car salesman

[@StillKeepOnLosing]

Blonde Politician

[@CogitoErgoSum2024]

That’s about it too

[@gifi11]

Seriously. All he is is talk. He says the same talking points after each loss. It's getting annoying for me and I'm just a fan. I know the players are starting to tune this out.

[@mr.misanthrope1991]

You mean prior to today the 3 losses he’s had this year??lol

[@gifi11]

@@mr.misanthrope1991 he has been the HC for 3 years.

[@tuckerkline4142]

This team has 30M in dead cap from Kirk and won 14 games… kudos to this team.

[@julianodirenzi5719]

Facts

[@russelferguson4648]

This!

[@robe2504]

And $16m from Hunter, and more wins than Kirk ever gave them.

[@JC-pq4ul]

Fix the interior O line once and for all! It's been crap the last six years! Spend the $$$ in free agents and the draft and fix the problem please! D line too!

[@CaseyBoles-bc2yk]

5o years and still ain't stopping now love my vikes rain or shine go vikes

[@loganw.5825]

You're a true fan, I love to see it. SKOL!!!

[@gazman2769]

So tough being a Vikings fan. The Hype to let down every year.

[@saingrimes]

This was #1 bad coaching and game plan. #2 QB holding onto the ball to long. #3 see #1 about #2! Last game the Rams D line tore our tail off. See #1, we did nothing to game plan to get that pressure off the QB. #1 game plan took to long to develop. QB does not have time for our receivers to be running 15 yard routes. At the end of the day the coaching staff did not have a game plan to fix the issues from first match up and the exact same thing happened in this game. This falls on KOC not understanding who Sam is in big games and putting together a plan that suits his strengths best. There is a reason Sam is on this team at this point in his career and not a consistent starter somewhere else.

[@Abajado]

These blowout losses are humility.

[@DillonPatterson-co7be]

First time?

[@Abajado]

I just think this is worse then kicker shanking, or shitting the bed in the NFC championship.

[@speed777king6]

@@Abajado lol clearly you weren't there, those years were far worse. even making the playoffs this year was an overachievement. did you really expect Darnold to go to the super bowl?

[@JamieBlaine]

"didn't play well enough to win the football game"!!! Thats what you say when you lose a close one. You got blown out 2 weeks in a row. This is terrible coaching and the team wasn't ready to play in the 2 biggest games of this season. What happened on the o line? Sam was running for his life all night. What about the defense giving up 15 20 yard passes all night? You blitz and don't get to the quarterback? You keep doing this? This is definition of insanity, incompetency. All the stars need to get out of minnesota while they can!!! Oconnell, you failed this team and the fans. God bless the fans, best in the league. We deserve better.

[@aqjr1975]

I thought the 13-4 season and losing to Giants in 1st round playoffs felt crappy...this feels worse knowing they had the #1 seed and home field for playoffs in reach. Tired of this false hope.😢😩

[@brent4723]

This was a transitional year that became more than that when Sam Darnold surpassed all expectations. His limitations became evident on the big stage. So...Sam gets a big payday elsewhere, JJ starts next season, and the Vikings move on with a bunch of extra cap room to solidify the offensive line. I get the disappointment, but this is far beyond expectations. Next year begins a window of huge opportunity. I'll save my frustration for missing that opening...not now.

[@robe2504]

Why would you expect JJ to succeed in the same situation? JJ still hasn't played an NFL snap. What makes the start of next year any different from next year? They still need a bridge QB, and Sam is the obvious choice now, and JJ still has to develop and earn the start. Right now starting JJ week 1 probably sets up for a Bears type season.

[@brent4723]

@robe2504 If a Bears type season happens in 2025 in order to be a genuine Super Bowl contender for the following four years, so what? With Cousins's contract no longer affecting the salary cap, the Vikings are best suited for durable success by using that flexibility to lock in prime free agent talent on the offensive line and defense for the next 3-4 years. That lack of depth is what separates them from the elite. As for Sam, the Vikings were content to spend $10M for his terrific play most of this year, but someone will pay him $35M for the same quality next year. The Vikings won't, and shouldn't. JJ was drafted with the expectation that he'd be the complete package. He's the potential Jayden Daniels for the Vikings. It's time to let him prove such even if he struggles for a while.

[@robe2504]

@@brent4723 You are loading assumption on assumption, and completely relying on a QB picked at 10 overall to be the answer to everything. The Vikes have a QB picked at 3 overall, and another picked at 6 overall that are examples of how difficult QB success is. Yes, having that cap space is a useful asset, but remember that several other teams also have more money, or just as much and fewer gaps to fill. And there are only so many available FAs to go around, and teams tend to keep their best FAs. Also consider that because the Vikes are one of the better teams in the league that logically very few of the available FAs are likely to be upgrades. Pat Jones II or Cam Bynum, even Cam Robinson might be straight out starting upgrades for 10-15 teams in the league, but the Vikes might not be able to sign anyone better. It also might make just as much sense for the Vikes to extend Sam at an intermediate cost say 15-30m to make sure that JJ can beat him out rather than automatically handing JJ the keys. The team would be in a much better position if Sam handed a 3-3 or 4-2 team that has ironed out its pre-season glitches, over to JJ who has had a couple of months of additional development. Also don't panic about paying Sam $20m - it won't really affect the 2025 cap space available for FAs. Kwesi will structure the deal so that some will be deferred into future seasons. Also you may not be aware that the Vikes will get a $5m dead cap hit this season if Sam walks. If the Vikes do transition to JJ mid season as planned, then Sam could well be traded, and the new team usually picks up the outstanding amount on the deal anyway. Bottom line is that extending Sam will likely have minimal effect on the 2025 cap space for FAs.

[@brent4723]

@@robe2504 You also load assumption upon assumption, which is fine. We disagree, which is also fine. We both want the Vikings to succeed. Skol.

[@jameshansen8220]

Offensive line stinks. Play calling average. Nice fellow coach.❤

[@goatlandia8457]

Unbelievably embarrassing

[@Brinelious]

Anybody saying we should fire KOC is delusional. This is the coach of the year coming off a 14 win season with Sam Darnold at QB. He got everything he could out of Darnold, but the magic ran out when the lights got too bright. It's obvious to everyone now that JJ McCarthy is the future of this franchise.

[@DannyMiller-e7l]

The guy is a choker

[@jodo6791]

14 wins doesn’t mean anything if you can’t show out on the big stage. At least play with some urgency. As my former band teacher used to say, “You guys look like turtles walking through molasses!”

[@LprogressivesANDliberals]

I’m not firing koc but he wanted a raise for that new contract. If I’m the wilfs the last two games have not helped koc prove the raise he thought he deserved

[@Brinelious]

@jodo6791 14 wins means you got into the playoffs. You gotta get there first, just ask all the teams that didn't even make the tournament. Only 1 team will win the Super Bowl, 31/32 are gonna be disappointed every year. We got farther this year than anyone thought we would.

[@electric7508]

I even heard somebody say that they shouldn't fire KOC, but they shouldn't extend him either.

[@melissacompart1485]

Proud of my Vikings... regardless!! Stop the hate.

[@loreleimoreno1671]

Same, been a Vikings fan for 38yrs, since I was 7yro. Skol❤

[@bigchungus1848]

@@loreleimoreno1671 The Vikings are who we thought they were 😂

[@LprogressivesANDliberals]

Your a women. Your naturally more caring and forgiving but I’m not giving them a pass 👎🏾🟡🟣

[@loreleimoreno1671]

@@bigchungus1848 Been watching my whole life Ever big game they choke. 1998, Gary fn Anderson who perfect all season misses to send them to the SB

[@ElviesTravel]

Still impressive 14- 3 for Sam. ❤ best wishes to Vikings. Skol. Terrible ending but still a nice season. Im still heartbroken though 😅

[@jenniferrose1000]

I will say this was the most exciting season I've seen yet, yes we are officially off the table gor the Super Bowl...but this is the best season I've seen with my own eyes. To only lose to two teams (I know...repeatedly) I feel that was pretty incredible. Now let's learn from these losses, and get the team members we need to improve 💪. SKOL Vikings!!! We got this guys, we CAN do this!!

[@sandyborzillo8595]

You must be a young fan. Believe me , after 54 years of watching this team it’s never going to happen. Get out now.

[@speed777king6]

@@sandyborzillo8595 stop watching then.

[@ByronRodriguez87]

The clock hit midnight and Darnold turned back into a pumpkin.

[@lincolnchafee9602]

@@ByronRodriguez87 mccarthy is the future

[@bigboydrew1020]

I know it’s probably more difficult than we think, but why were more quick passes not thrown? Tom Brady made a living in the playoffs throwing 7 yard quick passes. It’s like every play the Vikings are trying to hit the 40 yard play.

[@JamieBlaine]

Check the ball down....... When you have 2 defensive lineman and 2 corners on your chest, it can be a little tough. You, Kevin, failed Sam Darnold. You Keving, failed this team, you Kevin, failed the fans.

[@jackahern1]

These comments about firing this guy are UNHINGED. It's like everyone forgot that we were playing above all expectations this year. So annoying.

[@lincolnchafee9602]

@@jackahern1 people are upset and emotional. Not thinking about how garbage the other options are gonna be

[@LprogressivesANDliberals]

He wants a big raise for this new contract and has failed the 2 biggest games this year. Can’t wait to see the negotiations and deal

[@TheVAPhantom]

This comment is THE comment. Like relax. We overachieved. Job is not done yet

[@DillonPatterson-co7be]

Casual fans don't know football and think two bad games is off with your head after going 14-3. The guy is an excellent coach, still green, but for a dude in his 3rd year getting to the playoffs twice is no easy feat.

[@TheVAPhantom]

@@DillonPatterson-co7be exactly. Impatient and delusional.

[@Truck-f5y]

One thing that I think is important to keep in mind is that it should not be overlooked what KOC has done with Darnold after only 1 year. He did the same thing with kirk a couple years ago. Offense looked fantastic, excluding the last couple weeks unfortunately. One thing to look forward to is seeing JJ put into the offense and getting him for a couple years to see what he can achieve. He is the guy KOC wanted to draft and coach for the following years. Darnold was a 1 year signing to bridge to JJ, what happened with him is something special and am super proud of him for his bounce back year. However, it is time to move on and see what JJ can do. Fingers crossed, we beef up our O-line, cb room, and possibly nab a young running back.

[@robe2504]

Exactly, although I'd add that Sam wasn't actually a bridge this season, and that the chances of him coming back as that bridge next season might be higher than many think because of those last two games. McCarthy still has to earn that start. Giving an untried rookie that start in week 1 without making him earn it doesn't seem like a recipe for success next season.

[@JamieBlaine]

The oline battled. They ran backwards and let the defense catapult off their chests and kill Sam Darnold.

[@issazeele1707]

15:01 The goal next season is to win a playoff game or two or three. Thank you for the winning season.

[@StillKeepOnLosing]

Ya done for the next 15 years. It's Gb and DET's era now. RIP

[@charlesjefferson1577]

​@@StillKeepOnLosinglol we accidently went 14-3 while rebuilding

[@StillKeepOnLosing]

@charlesjefferson1577 Rebuilding? Lmfao. Rebuild his hitting on drafts. Lmfao. You meant duct tape.... And easy schedule. Lmfao. Daniel Jones

[@Ken751]

​@@StillKeepOnLosingDetroit, I believe. But Green Bay? It really doesn't look like they're in a better position than us lol

[@noobeenaut]

​@@StillKeepOnLosinggreen bay? They're not looking so hot either

[@ToppCuber]

I still have faith in KOC, it's only his 3rd season as Vikings HC, I'd give him time to develop and improve

[@haveaseatsir]

He’s a great coach. It’s the o-line and Sammy D who let us down.

[@ribble_wibble7478]

@@KDKANER117sometimes it just doesn’t work

[@nagareruu]

@ToppCuberA single injury to a team is no excuse for losing, the Lions have been plagued with injuries all season and still find a way to dominate teams

[@StarRail80]

Sounds like a politician in a way.

[@kevinfessler6831]

KOC has taken what I believe was a non-playoff caliber roster and won 13 games, and took a borderline playoff roster and won 14 games with a QB the league gave up on. He is outstanding in getting players to buy into his vision and himself to get maximum productivity. The past two games we saw a team and a QB that got hit in the mouth early and couldn't get up, and the HC didn't have any answers. Vikings should and will extend KOC (Kwesi too), but the roster still has significant holes and KOC's team needs to get a little tougher. Run offense is a problem, and you can't hide your CB's forever. Very excited about JJ, and what the future of Vikings Football looks like.

[@hunniebe6]

He couldn't get them to buy in when it counted...

[@kevinfessler6831]

@@hunniebe6 I don't think a lack of buy in had anything to do with their performance. I think roster weakness and his inability to adjust to what the Rams were doing were the issues last night.

[@robe2504]

Well said Kevin. 100% on point. I do wonder why the coaches didn't take more risks with young players like McGlothern but I do defer to their vastly superior knowledge and judgement. I know everyone is calling for IOL, but I see a legit RB threat and highly athletic CB as being the two biggest draft priorities now. Initially I thought CB first to cover Jameson and co in the division, but now I think fighting fire with fire and an elite RB like Kaleb Johnson with Gibbs like speed might be the better option. Leave IOL and IDL in FA, for proven players that can contribute on day 1.

[@SincerelyJnC]

We trust you KOC. Youre the right man to lead this team. The future is bright. Skol.

[@Garyisgud]

😂😂 clahn show!

[@WhiteSupremePizza]

Oh who cares about what Sam WAS able to do? What was he able to do in the last 2 games when it really mattered and everything was on the line??? NOTHING!! Not a damn thing unless you count running in reverse to pick up negative yards. I don't give a damn if he can go undefeated every season all the way to the playoffs, if he can not play even a tiny bit decent when it all counts. I hope he has already packed his crap and got down the road. It's time to see what JJ can do. Sam built himself up all season but completely crushed everything he built in just 2 games and he also crushed our season right along with it. Edit: AND SO DID YOU KOC!!! Hand over play calling and just focus on coaching. PLEASE. Your coaching is EXCELLENT. But your play calling??? No not so much when it really matters.

[@LadyBirch]

I’m excited for next year still and I’m excited to see what JJ McCarthy can do

[@loganw.5825]

SKOL!

[@daviset.al.8063]

You are an amazing coach. I hope you stay with us. Your team was solid. Keep the faith.

[@brandonmartin6943]

So many casuals in this comment section. Blaming KOC is insane lol you are delusional if you think he’s the problem.

[@FinsUpForTua]

And the O line. When you have a play where you have THIRTEEN SECONDS TO THROW MAYBE ITS YOU THAT HAS BECOME THE PROBLEM.

[@imthecloser111]

You have been terrible in every big game you have ever coached for the Vikings.

[@robinroupe9940]

WTF are you even talking about.

[@LooneyLefties24]

Darnold should be gone. Draft and sign O lineman, Skatteboe as RB, Jones to compete with JJ. Jones a good change of pace back to injury prone. If you sign Darnold, you're fools

[@RDAmidwest]

Cut the crap, coach. Two weeks in a row your juggernaut imploded. From the top.

[@MIDWEST507REPIN]

I wish KOC would stop being a politician and talk for real for one moment. It feels like I'm listening to a happy pup pup speech at some political rally. Cut the BS, have a back bone and be real. You got your asses kicked. Your QB was shit, your OL was shit, at least admit that. Stop with the warm feelies.

[@heinzbucksandcastle2053]

You are right , you have to do better than this crap

[@loganw.5825]

Projected for 6.5 wins on the season btw

[@kbooger20]

@@loganw.5825 we all get that, but 2 EMBARASSING playoff losses. If you look at the way we lost the last 2 games it is just terrible. We lose a close game or somewhat close game and it's a different story. But to end the season on 2 blowouts?? I have serious doubts about KOC going forward. The team gave up TWICE.

[@hunniebe6]

@@loganw.5825 Favored by 2.5 over the rams.

[@JamieBlaine]

You had the opportunity to host a game in that beautiful stadium. You failed to prepare you're team. You failed the fans, this team is the lauging stock of the nfl. No one takes this team serious. I bet the teams we beat this year are scratching their heads.

[@RibRiles-x3t]

It’s all good coach. You knew Sam couldn’t handle the blitz and there wasn’t anything you could do about it. Stay true to your style and keep that 42 mil for free angency.

[@xxosonxx5439]

Sad we didn’t win but the experience of going to a playoff game was nice Go Skol. This was a rebuild season

[@suedumas9192]

This is a Viking fan the Good Bad and Ugly, and will be back next season, maybe before I die

[@sascha_maxine]

some of these comments are insane to read. THIS WAS A REBUILDING YEAR. CALM TF DOWN. yes the last 2 weeks were embarassing, but calling for KOCs head is next level idiocy

[@robe2504]

There are an awful lot of folks of below average intellectual capacity that see themselves as valedictorians when it comes to football advice.

[@DVega-b1q]

Give up the play calling hire a offensive coordinator do your head coaching job learn how to sceam against defenses and attack their weaknesses stop running the same plays every game that’s why our receivers are always covered do not sign Sam new exterior defense and offense lines the game is won in the trenches the you will be able to run the ball

[@robe2504]

Another simpleton, that can't even spell, trying to pontificate on complexity you probably can't conceive to an expert. Perhaps just stick to what you know.

[@kareemabduljacandybar4558]

hopefully they'll get serious about that o-line and RB

[@TomJohnson-g7k]

Give Koc his grace he gave Sam the game plan. give Sam his grace he wasn’t ready season over. Next year hopefully jj is healthy. We have to draft a decent corner and defensive lineman. And resign the players we can on to the next.

[@LooneyLefties24]

Worst coaching I've seen in a long time. You can be 34-17 in regular season, but 0-2 in playoffs when it matters and to lose in the fashion on a national stage time and again, unacceptable!

[@loganw.5825]

Quite acceptable for a rebuilding year tbh

[@DillonPatterson-co7be]

It is his 3rd year for god's sake. Cut the dude some slack. 13W 1st season, playoff in and out and now a 14W season in and out. I cannot imagine the difficulty of his job and no one here can either. How often do you have a problem in your life that you fix by the second try? We watch from the couch, we see everything, that man is out there at his regular 'ol height, tens of thousands of fans being loud af, and doing his very best to essentially be a general on a battlefield. He'll get us there. Just have faith. We're all a bit emotional after the last two weeks.

[@brandonblock288]

​@@loganw.5825people act like the vikings were projected to win it all.

[@StillKeepOnLosing]

Lost to Daniel Jones and Lose with Daniel Jones. Only the sad vikes can F that up lmfao

[@DillonPatterson-co7be]

@@StillKeepOnLosing I honestly wanted to throw him in there toward the end when I felt like we were cooked. Why not ya know?

[@KenJohnson-c3u]

O'Connell and the Vikings were Exposed in the playoffs when it mattered.

[@Olderwiser77]

There was no fire in the gut!!!

[@IcyNorseman]

KOC is a very likable guy. Reminds me a lot of Tony Dungy when he was with the Colts. Soft spoken, doesn’t yell at his players, etc. That style of coaching worked for Dungy’s team and that era of football in general. Unfortunately, that style doesn’t win you big games in today’s football. With the distractions of being flashy, social media, etc…you need someone that’ll light a fire in his players when they’re distracted. The reason Dan Campbell is the best coach in football is because he’s created a culture of grit, which is what will win you the games that matter. I want to keep KOC around because he is a vital piece to our organization and players want to play for him, but I think he really needs to do some self reflecting this off season and figure out a way to have a balance of what he brings to the table this year but also not being afraid to hold players accountable for their lack of performance. This organization needs more grit

[@robe2504]

Wtf are you talking about? It worked for McVay.

[@CringeComedyTV]

Save it KOC. You can talk the talk, but you can't walk the WALK! You were OUTCOACHED AGAIN!! You are absolutely CLUELESS!!!

[@krim1524]

Ya KOCs fault O line sucked and Darnold can't throw for shit

[@robe2504]

If KOC is clueless, then how moronic must you be, if the peak of your football intelligence is to shout idiotic insults anonymously from the cheap seats?

[@cotedivoir]

Nah we got the belt coach.. it's cool tho love you my guy yall really did good this year keep chipping at them brother don't lose sight 💯 💪🏾

[@Paglia444]

I'd like to see a hard pivot to JJ. Focus on your time and energy on him. I don't want to see any equivocation, no "keeping the door open to Darnold," and so on. Time is a resource, and focus it all on McCarthy. All the other first round QBs have looked good; it's time to move on to him.

[@julieleber6131]

WHERE WAS THE O LINE?! Sam held the ball TOO long. ADDRESS IT in the off season….geezz but I’ll forever love my Vikings 💜💛

[@jaydonthomas427]

Amazing effort by our defense, van ginkle is the man. Our defense played like an all star team tonight. Darnold, O line, we know you could have done better, but it is what it is. For some reason being under pressure broke any sync QB had with his receivers and it really seemed like the team had not recovered in spirit enough to fight as hard as we needed to tonight, especially after they turned over that defensive TD in the beginning. An unfortunate end to what could have been a come back for the books. That being said, it was still a great season! A lot of moments to remember and the stars on our O long got their early season shine. Nothing to do now but wish you all a good summer, and may we come back with a vengeance next season SKOL

[@robe2504]

100%. A few places to upgrade - RB, CB, IOL, IDL - so it will be interesting to see what they can do.

[@PassRushDiary99]

Interior of both lines need resources it’s the same thing every time but I bet we’ll go get another weapon

[@Its_Ghost]

good thing is this draft is kinda perfect for us, lots of linemen, running backs, and secondary just need to get more picks and use our cap wisly

[@FTFC365]

Thanks for a great season that exceeded most expectations coach! I’m grateful for all your work, and the work of all the other coaches and staff, as well as our players. I’ll be back in the stands next year cheering just as I have been since 98. SKOL!

[@flawlessfatality8105]

Absolute joke, this is why vikings fans are never too excited about winning seasons

[@RussellBlevins-w3z]

Kevin is a class act,he is a leader who take reponsibility for his actions. He refuses to throw his own players and coaches under the bus. Even when bad calls are made by the refs,he may disagree with the calls without blaming them for a reason the Vikings lost

[@robe2504]

Yip, that's at the peak of the blame - justify - lifecycle where most successful people live. Losers are forever stuck in blame.

[@LadyBirch]

He takes accountability, but says the same thing and never changes. He’s not adapting to the changes he knows he’s supposed to make so he’s just on repeat which means it doesn’t mean anything what he’s saying doesn’t mean anything is he getting paid off to lose?

[@DillonPatterson-co7be]

It was his second playoff game my dude. When you, personally, need to change something in your life how often do you fix it in two chances?

[@StillKeepOnLosing]

What do you expect from a Blonde Politician?

[@StillKeepOnLosing]

​@@DillonPatterson-co7be He lost to Daniel Jones and lost with Daniel Jones.... Blondes.....

[@Btwixed]

​@DillonPatterson-co7be lions game was basically a playoff game so 0-3, hasn't had a lead in the second half in all 3 games. Lost as a favorite in 2 of those games.

[@Bowen101]

We have no excuse not to release Sam Darnold before the Super Bowl ends. FIRE HIM!!!!!!!

[@FinsUpForTua]

Fire Darnold yes. he held onto the ball for THIRTEEN SECONDS

[@julianodirenzi5719]

@@FinsUpForTuayall don’t know ball. The play calls were trash and yall o line is garbage against good d lines. Sam is lucky he’s leaving yall are ass

[@robe2504]

14 wins dude, an all time NFL record. Make JJ beat him out first, otherwise you're just idiot screaming to be worse.

[@zacharyculhane8474]

O-line has always been a weak spot

[@DVega-b1q]

The offensive line has been terrible for 14 years

[@MrWoodsman23]

You could’ve done a lot of things better KOC… that is the problem!!!!

[@WilliamMcCarty-q9v]

I think the last two games prove that this team is a long way from being a super bowl contender. Need a lot of personnel changes need to take place. Offensive line, QB, Defensive Line, and Defensive Backs.

[@robe2504]

In August I'd bet my mortgage you were telling folks they wouldn't make the playoffs.

[@bookem5537]

Harrison Smith, Darnold, Griffin, Gilmore, Risner, Aaron Jones and more will be gone next year.. better hit in the draft and free agency

[@EatMyShortzz]

Griffin will be back. AJ likely too .

[@Johnhargrove18]

None of those guys are impact players. So we are good

[@charlieholcomb6091]

Kevin O'Connell is the Kirk Cousins of coaching. He is not a playoff coach.

[@Krawllll]

Let me help ya coach, maybe you are too close and can't see it. O-line coach, O-line. Please sign us a center and guard and draft us a stud rb. thanks

[@nikkicovington6389]

We had a good season record especially for doing all for 31 Khyree Jackson but we didn’t want this to end like that twice in a row to the Lions and Rams and we will be back next year as for KJ Forever Remembered.

[@potto2001]

Great season! Unfortunately disappointing ending.

[@adambrunner9462]

After a cooling down period of a couple hours I say this is a blessing in disguise. We were never going to the SB this year lets be real! No qb questions to deal with... Thanks Sam for a fun season we wish you well. We have a kid watching and learning all season with the "IT" factor on a rookie contract. We need to rebuild the interior O line and draft a RB (Kaleb Johnson) Use free agency to fill holes in the D. The window is just opening... Off-season is gonna be a blast! Skol!

[@thetruth981]

No one cares what you do in the regular season. Win it all or don't bother.

[@robe2504]

Yes they do. Just look at how empty the stadiums of losing teams are. It's also all folks talk about until next season. People do care more about the playoffs, but that is not what you said.