In the midst of a season plagued by concerns over quarterback performance and defensive lockdowns, one team stands out for its bold approach to downfield throwing. In Minnesota, quarterback Sam Darnold has been given a clear message from his coach: take the opportunities and be confident in your ability to deliver.
This confidence stems from the team’s frequent encounters with two-high safety schemes, designed to limit big plays from star receiver Justin Jefferson. However, it’s also rooted in Coach Kevin O’Connell’s genuine respect for Darnold’s deep accuracy, a skill he has honed in recent years.
As Darnold emerges as an early MVP candidate, he has showcased his ability to connect on deep passes, completing 63.6% of his attempts that travel at least 20 yards in the air. This league-best completion rate is a testament to his hard work and dedication to improving his mechanics.
In the past, questions surrounded Darnold’s mechanics, but the Vikings’ coaching staff has worked to adjust them, focusing on softening his movement in the pocket as he progresses through his reads. However, none of these changes have specifically targeted deep throws.
Instead, Darnold’s natural talent and attention to detail have allowed him to thrive in this area. He has spoken about the importance of keeping his head still and his eyes on the target, finishing through the throw to guide the football to his receivers.
With Jefferson and the Vikings’ receiving corps stressing defenses, Darnold’s ability to deliver deep passes has become a crucial asset for the team. As the season continues, they hope to exploit this strength further, providing an antidote to the defensive trends that have dominated the league.
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