Sub-edited by Jackson Denney
A team must have a great culture and a good leader to have a chance to remain undefeated heading into October in any NFL season.
And as the Minnesota Vikings go into their London matchup with the New York Jets looking to go 5-0 to start the year, it appears they do have that leader who has established a winning culture throughout the locker room in head coach Kevin O’Connell.
For O’Connell, coaching isn’t just a job. When asked about what he loves about being a coach he said, “I get a chance to have an impact on players and do things for players.”
That attitude is evident in his support and belief of his players, such as revitalised quarterback Sam Darnold and the highly productive wide receiver room, who have contributed massively to the team’s 4-0 start.
When asked about Darnold, O’Connell said: “Sam deserves so much credit…Sam from day one has almost been surgical in his daily preparation…you just feel a confidence from our football team with Sam and that’s something that’s earned.”
Embed from Getty ImagesO’Connell also shared high praise for Minnesota’s wide receivers who have been a key reason for Darnold’s success.
“We prioritise Jordan Addison as a player that would ultimately complement that 1A, 1B feel with Justin (Jefferson). Jordan is flying around the field…and I don’t think enough has been said about Brandon Powell, Trent Sherfield, even Trishton (Jackson)” he said.
With this type of leadership from the head coaching position and a team with terrific chemistry humming on all cylinders, the Vikings have every chance to remain undefeated against New York on Sunday.
