Vikings staying on track and in control behind Sam Darnold’s composure and confidence

EAGAN, Minn. — The game had suddenly gone sideways for the Minnesota Vikings, their 11-point lead on the Chicago Bears having evaporated in the closing seconds. “I think when he just continues to play quarterback at a high level, I think we’re a tough team.” After the defense forced the Bears to punt on the opening possession of overtime, Darnold led the Vikings on a 68-yard drive to set up the game-ending field goal while overcoming a 7-yard sack on the first play and two subsequent setbacks with a false start and a holding penalty. “I think I tell the guys that every single time in the huddle, but that’s my mindset every single time I’m out there on the field, especially in that situation.” The AP Top 25 college football poll is back every week throughout the season! That wouldn’t be possible without Darnold, whose career rebirth has helped spark the Vikings become one of the league’s biggest surprises in what’s now its most difficult division. Injuries The Vikings lost LT Cam Robinson and LB Ivan Pace to injuries in the first quarter against the Bears, and O’Connell said on Monday those players were still in “evaluation mode.” Oliver will have an opportunity to return after being sidelined last week.