"It's hard to believe": Peyton Manning voices concern for Sam Darnold ahead of Vikings' playoff

NFL legend Peyton Manning expressed admiration and concern for Sam Darnold's playoff situation. The Minnesota Vikings quarterback faces a challenging wild-card matchup despite leading his team to 14 wins.

Darnold's 2024 season marks a dramatic career shift. The former third overall pick threw 35 touchdowns against 12 interceptions, shattering his previous season highs. His 4,319 passing yards is fifth in the NFL.

Speaking on the "Omaha Productions" show on Saturday, Manning praised Darnold's ability to adapt. The Hall of Fame QB emphasized how difficult it is to succeed across different systems and team cultures.

"He has stayed the course," Manning said. "He's been in different systems and that's not easy. But yeah, there's definitely a lesson that just because it doesn't work out right away and the guy's first stop doesn't mean let's just write him off forever. ... It's hard to believe you're 14-3 and have to go on the road."

On Monday, the Vikings will face the Rams at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona. Los Angeles wildfires forced this neutral-site matchup, potentially giving Minnesota's traveling fans an advantage.

Manning praises Sam Darnold's performance

Syndication: Detroit Free Press - Source: Imagn

Peyton Manning's film study revealed Sam Darnold's growth in critical moments. The Minnesota Vikings QB's 102.5 passer rating towers over his previous best of 84.3, placing him among the league's elite performers.

The Vikings' offensive line must protect Darnold better than in Week 18's loss to Detroit. The Rams' defensive front, led by Braden Fiske (8.5 sacks) and Byron Young (8.0 sacks), poses a serious threat.

Kevin O'Connell's offense boasts dangerous weapons. Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison and T.J. Hockenson give Darnold elite targets. Aaron Jones adds balance with 1,138 rushing yards and five TDs.

The playoff stage offers Darnold a chance to cement his comeback story. He is second in Comeback Player of the Year odds (+200), but he has already proven those who questioned him after JJ McCarthy's injury wrong.

A strong performance could solidify Darnold's future in Minnesota. The Vikings' defense welcomes back Blake Cashman (112 tackles) after missing their Week 8 loss to the same Rams. This strengthens their chances in the wild-card rematch.