Time to put Sam Darnold in the MVP conversation - Vikings fans bat for QB after 347-yard, 5 TD performance vs. Falcons

Sam Darnold transformed a potential nail-biter into a Minnesota Vikings win, delivering a career-defining performance. In the 42-21 victory against the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday, Darnold threw a five touchdown passes — a feat not seen in Minnesota in 20 years.

Darnold completed 22 of 28 passes for 347 yards, zero turnovers and a mind-blowing 157.9 passer rating.

The Vikings' offensive explosion came with a dramatic backstory. Facing Kirk Cousins — the quarterback he replaced — Darnold didn't just win. He dominated. Cousins was booed walking onto U.S. Bank Stadium and threw two critical interceptions.

Darnold's most electrifying moment came late in the third quarter. With the Vikings clinging to a slim 14-13 lead, he escaped a potential sack, scrambled right and launched a perfect touchdown pass to Justin Jefferson which broke the game wide open.

Fan reactions came pouring in.

"Time to put Sam Darnold in the MVP conversation, NFL world," a fan wrote.

"MVP! MVP!" another fan said.

Others had passionate reactions.

"Best QB in the NFC. Prove me wrong," a fan wrote.

"Les go Sammy," one fan commented.

"Darnold mvp," a fan tweeted.

"The fact he's not in mvp conversations is genuinely ridiculous," a fan said.

Sam Darnold's game-changing performance

NFL: Atlanta Falcons at Minnesota Vikings - Source: Imagn

Sam Darnold's weapons were lethal. Jordan Addison caught eight passes for 133 yards and three touchdowns while Justin Jefferson had seven catches for 132 yards and two TDs.

Byron Murphy Jr. added defensive fireworks with his sixth interception of the season and Aaron Jones punched in a rushing TD. The team scored 42 points — its highest since 2019.

Despite allowing over 500 yards defensively, the Vikings' offensive firepower overwhelmed the Falcons. Darnold's ability to create off-schedule plays and avoid pressure proved decisive.

This wasn't just a win. It was a statement. The Vikings are now 11-2, their best start since 2009. Darnold's one-year $10 million contract looks like an absolute bargain compared to Cousins' $180 million deal.

Minnesota will aim to extend its six-game winning streak against the Chicago Bears on Monday Night Football on Dec. 16.