NFL Power Rankings: Vikings Leap Forward After Week 1 Win at Giants

No. 21 (up 4 spots): NFL Staff, Bleacher Report

“Sam Darnold, for a guy in a new system to start 12-for-12 and be incredibly poised throughout the day, it was a huge performance for us to be able to build off,” Vikings Head Coach Kevin O’Connell said.

It’s entirely possible that Sunday’s blowout had as much to do with the Giants being terrible as Minnesota being better than expected. But it’s still a best-case scenario to start the season, and it won’t take that long to find out just how good these Vikings really are — over the next two weeks, the San Francisco 49ers and Houston Texans visit U.S. Bank Stadium.

“Sam Darnold’s 2024 season may play out like Baker Mayfield’s 2023 campaign — minus the playoff berth,” [Bleacher Report NFL’s Maurice] Moton said. “Nonetheless, Darnold looks ready to shed the bust label associated with his name since he flamed out with the New York Jets and became a journeyman quarterback. Perhaps Darnold found the right spot for a career rebirth. He has a star wide receiver, Justin Jefferson, and O’Connell, who’s an established play-caller, can put him in the best situations for efficient performances.

“Aside from a throw that fell short on an interception because Dexter Lawrence II hit his arm, Darnold had a clean season opener and looked like a quality starting quarterback,” Moton added. “With J.J. McCarthy on season-ending Injured Reserve, Darnold has the Minnesota stage to himself under center and a chance to extend his career as starter.”

No. 18 (up 7 spots): Pete Prisco, CBS Sports

Sam Darnold impressed in leading the Vikings over the Giants. The defense also came up big. This team might be better than expected.