Christian Ponder cleared to play, but Matt Cassel likely to start
By Mike Dyce
Minnesota Vikings quarterback Christian Ponder has been out with a fractured rib. Ponder has been cleared to play, but he likely won’t start. According to ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter, Matt Cassel is the likely starter.
“Our quarterback is Christian Ponder,” Vikings head coach Leslie Frazier said within the past two weeks.
The Vikings can’t bench Cassel following his strong performance in their win over the Steelers, fans might riot. Cassel completed 16 of 25 passes for 248 yards, two touchdowns and maybe more importantly, zero interceptions.
This could be Cassel’s last chance to stake a claim in the starting spot. The Vikings commitment to Christian Ponder seems to be fading, with the signing of Josh Freeman it seems like it just a matter of time before he starts.
If Cassel can keep this team winning and playing solid and efficient games, and limiting turnovers, he’ll make it hard on the front office to make the switch.