Key Matchup: Edge Jared Verse vs. LT Cam Robinson

Darnold has made significant progress as a passer this season, but the Detroit Lions made him look like the old Sam by increasing the pressure on him in Week 18. Darnold appeared nervous and narrowly missed several open passes downfield. When the Rams beat the Vikings in Week 8, left tackle Christian Darrisaw was injured late in the first half. The Vikings scored their only two touchdowns in the first quarter of this game. Verse, a Defensive Rookie of the Year candidate, had one of his best games against the Vikings, recording 1 1/2 sacks and five pressures.

Verse played offense on 67 percent of his snaps during the regular season. He will primarily compete against Darrisaw’s backup, Robinson, who the Rams traded after Darrisaw’s injury. Robinson is better than any other option the Vikings had on the roster, but he struggled. Since his move, Robinson has allowed eight sacks and had his worst game of the season in Week 18 against the Lions, giving up nine pressures and one sack.

Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell will think of ways to help Robinson, but only so much plan can help against a bull rush. With speed rushers, it’s easier to chip in and help them because of the wide path they take. Verse is an elite power rush and wants to run right through you. The Vikings need Robinson to bounce back and keep Darnold clean against the Rams. If they do that, it will be difficult for the Rams to cover the Vikings’ all-star cast of pass catchers.