Vikings with O’Connell clearly prefer to pass the ball, and Darnold has aced the test

EAGAN, Minn. — The Minnesota Vikings had just retaken possession with a precarious two-point lead on Green Bay right before the two-minute warning, badly needing to drain the clock and stem the momentum the Packers seized down the stretch. “I felt comfortable with Sam in those moments,” O’Connell said, alluding to some particular runs he’d called earlier in the game and in late-game situations throughout the season that gave the Packers plenty of reason to anticipate them. “I thought we’d get some edges and get Sam and his athleticism out on the perimeter.” With 2:18 to go, Darnold faked a handoff to Cam Akers as he ran toward the right end. “Whenever he does call a pass in that situation, I’m always prepared for it,” Darnold said, “and I feel like our guys did a really good job of executing that.” What’s working The pass protection was impeccable, with only one sack allowed on Darnold and plenty of time for him to progress through his options and look downfield for receivers on longer-developing routes. Jefferson wasn’t targeted until midway through the second quarter and had only two catches in the first half while the Packers paid him extra attention, necessitating Darnold to rely often on Nailor.