Sam Darnold – Carolina Panthers QB
- Throws for 250+ yards and 2 TDs
The time for reflection and rehabilitation is now over for Sam Darnold. After coming in for Cam Newton against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, head coach Matt Rhule named him as the starter in Week 17 as he looks to prove beyond all doubt worthy of a starting chance.
This is the tipping point for some fans who feel Newton hasn’t been given a fair chance. However, that’s probably of no concern for Darnold and he is the only signal-caller under contract next season when it’s all said and done.
Everyone is saying all the right things regarding Darnold’s approach and work ethic. But these words are hollow unless the No. 3 overall selection in 2018 somehow pulls a rabbit out of the hat in New Orleans.
Darnold already has one win over the Saints this season, which was in Week 2 and the last time Carolina succeeded at home. He completed 68.42 percent of his passes for 305 yards, two touchdowns, one interception, and secured a passer rating of 99.1 during one of the player’s better performances of the campaign.
This should provide Darnold with some confidence to perhaps do something similar this weekend. Although nobody could say this with any great conviction.