This matchup of former coaching cohorts could come down to whether the Vikings can protect Sam Darnold against the fearsome Rams front.

Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell shared a heartfelt and encouraging message for Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay in light of the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles. The message came just days before their teams faced off in the playoffs.

Following the vicious fires in the Los Angeles, CA, region that caused this Wild Card game to relocate, Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell had a heartfelt message for Sean McVay and the Los Angeles Rams before their playoff matchup,

The Minnesota Vikings will close out the Wild Card round of the 2025 NFL Playoffs on Monday night when they take on the Los Angeles Rams. Sam Darnold will be leading his team to battle after his breakout campaign, but recent comments from Kevin O'Connell indicate the team may have a new backup quarterback in Daniel Jones.

The Minnesota Vikings are considering a significant shake-up to their quarterback depth chart, one that would put newcomer Daniel Jones in position to play if starter Sam Darnold is injured or ineffective in the playoffs.

Daniel Jones may be climbing up the totem pole in Minnesota at record speed. Speaking with reporters Thursday ahead of Monday’s playoff opener against the Los Angeles Rams, Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell indicated that Jones could become the team’s backup quarterback behind Sam Darnold.