When Sam Darnold stepped up to replace first-round pick J.J. McCarthy as Vikings starting quarterback, Minnesota probably didn't expect any potential for a future QB controversy. But through three games, the football gods have decided to be all about Sam Darnold.

That couldn't have been more clear than in Sunday's Week 3 matchup against the Texans. Even a would-be disastrous play managed to end up in Darnold's favor.

Early in the second half, the Houston pass rush got to Darnold and forced his throw to go backwards towards the sidelines. With the ball live, it could have been a huge loss on the play. Instead, Brandon Powell made it work.

Powell picked up the live-ball fumble and took on the Texans defense for an 18-yard gain. The Vikings scored a touchdown later in the drive. If that play doesn't sum up Darnold's 2024 with Minnesota, I don't know what does.

Everything is going his way this season.

More NFL!

Malik Nabers already strengthened his case for Rookie of the Year with unbelievably acrobatic TD catch

Jimmy Johnson blasted Panthers owner David Tepper for micromanaging and ruining his team

Which NFL game is Tony Romo calling in Week 3 in 2024? Here's the answer.

This article originally appeared on For The Win: One wild play perfectly summed up Sam Darnold's phenomenal start to the season with the Vikings