Part 5/8:
Critics did not solely place blame on Darnold; several commentators, including Orlovsky, examined the broader context of the team's performance. They highlighted the inferior play of the offensive line, which struggled against the Rams' formidable defensive rush, noting the coaching staff's role in the debacle.
Head coach Kevin O'Connell was scrutinized for his strategies, with some feeling he was outclassed during the playoff matchup. Orlovsky contended that a quarterback's performance is heavily influenced by the support around him, challenging the notion that Darnold was solely to blame for the Vikings' playoff woes.