Sunday’s NFC North match between the unbeaten Minnesota Vikings and the 4-1 Detroit Lions will not only determine divisional supremacy but will also showcase two former top draft pick quarterbacks, Jared Goff and Sam Darnold. Goff, now with the Lions, signed a lucrative contract extension after leading them to the NFC championship game last season, while Darnold has impressed with the Vikings, showing potential to become a full-time starter. Darnold’s success mirrors Goff’s journey, who was seen as a stopgap or salary dump before excelling with Detroit. Goff’s trade to the Lions was initially viewed as a quarterback upgrade with a salary dump, but he has proved his worth, leading the team to success. Darnold, on the other hand, has faced a more challenging path with multiple teams before finding success with the Vikings. With rookie J.J. McCarthy waiting in the wings, Darnold has a chance to solidify his place as the Vikings’ long-term quarterback with a strong performance on Sunday. The game presents Darnold with an opportunity to show he can lead the Vikings to big wins, similar to what Goff achieved with the Lions. Ultimately, Sunday’s matchup will be a chance for both quarterbacks to prove their value and potential as long-term solutions for their respective teams.
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