Coming into the 2024 NFL season, Minnesota Vikings fans had no idea what to expect from quarterback Sam Darnold. Thrust into a starting role, the former draft bust has looked like a top-tier passer this year and has impressed experts and fans everywhere.
The Vikings were expected to struggle mightily this season. Some experts thought they could be in the running for the worst record in the league while others had an exceptionally low ceiling for Minnesota.
Sam Darnold and the Vikings have surpassed all expectations this season. Minnesota has locked themselves into a playoff spot and have amassed 14 wins heading into the regular-season finale against the Lions.
Vikings QB Sam Darnold compared to classic Disney character who rode a magic carpet
Experts are starting to give the Minnesota Vikings some respect for what they are accomplishing this season. Much of that credit goes to Brian Flores' complicated defensive scheme and the play of quarterback Sam Darnold.
On his podcast, sportscaster and radio host Rich Eisen had some bold things to say about the Vikings and made a fun comparison for Sam Darnold, saying he is like a Disney character who flew on a magic carpet.
"The Vikings can win the Super Bowl. These are facts. Playing like this, Sam Darnold can be on a magic carpet ride. Forget about turning back into a pumpkin. He's Aladdin. That's the Disney reference right now. Unreal."Rich Eisen on his podcast Monday
It does feel like Sam Darnold found a magic lamp and got wishes from a genie. His career resurgence feels like it came out of nowhere, much like Aladdin's transformation into a price from being a "street rat" pauper.
Whether or not you believe the Minnesota Vikings can win the Super Bowl, seeing a prominent voice in sports like Rich Eisen speak so positively about the team and their quarterback is an amazing change of tone from the narrative at the beginning of the season.
However, there are still some who think it is more of a Cinderella story and are waiting for the enchanted carriage to turn back into a pumpkin.16 games into the season, the magic hasn't worn off and Darnold looks like he could be in line for a big contract in 2025.
This amazing season continues on Sunday Night Football when the Minnesota Vikings face the Detroit Lions in a contest that will decide the top seed in the NFC playoff and who wins the division. Hopefully, Aladdin can continue to ride his carpet into the postseason.