4 ways Sam Darnold can bounce back vs. the Vikings in Week 6

Sam Darnold must show conviction

Any tentative start from Sam Darnold in this one is going to come with some substantial ramifications. The Carolina Panthers need their quarterback rising to the occasion rather than wilting under pressure, so an indifferent opening to the game won’t go unnoticed by the Minnesota Vikings, the fans in attendance, or even his teammates.

Setting the tone. That’s the key for Darnold.

If he can do this, then the Panthers have a chance to get their stuttering season back on track.

Taking the Vikings lightly despite their 2-3 record would be a mistake. They should have won at the unbeaten Arizona Cardinals and held the Cleveland Browns to 14 points, so Minnesota will fancy their chances of making life extremely difficult for Darnold in Week 6.

One way the No. 3 overall selection in 2018 can overcome this is by showing conviction. This comes pre-snap at the line of scrimmage and with the decisions he makes distributing the football.

The offensive line takes the brunt of the blame for Darnold’s failings – especially during the Week 5 capitulation. But the signal-caller missed open receivers, held onto the ball too long, and couldn’t process things fast enough when the first read wasn’t open.

There is mounting pressure on Darnold after such a poor display. We’ll find out much more about his character and credentials this weekend.