EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. -- The player Sam Darnold grew up watching and studying -- Aaron Rodgers -- was no longer a digital image on his phone or laptop. He was real, in the flesh, standing on the opposite sideline Sunday at MetLife Stadium. This was a unique opportunity to compete against the athlete who inspired him as a young beach kid in Southern California.
The New York Jets' rookie did more than just show up; he damn near beat Rodgers and the Green Bay Packers. Darnold made two mistakes in crunch time -- one mental, one physical -- but his overall performance in the 44-38 overtime loss was filled with wow moments and uncommon poise.