Minnesota Vikings expected to start Matt Cassel in Week 6

Sep 29, 2013; London, UNITED KINGDOM; Minnesota Vikings quarterback Matt Cassel (16) throws a pass against the Pittsburgh Steelers in the NFL International Series game at Wembley Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /

The Minnesota Vikings recently made the move to sign former Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Josh Freeman, but we know that he will not get the immediate start this week against the Carolina Panthers as he continues to learn the new offense.

That would leave the Vikings once again rolling with either Matt Cassel or Christian Ponder under center, and ESPN’s Adam Schefter is reporting that the team is expected to go with Cassel as the Week 6 starter despite Ponder being medically cleared for his broken rib.

Vikings QB Christian Ponder, who fractured his rib, has been cleared to play, but Matt Cassel is Minnesota’s likely starter vs. Carolina.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) October 10, 2013

Freeman’s contract would lead you to believe that he will be the eventual starter for the team, but for now the team will be going with someone more familiar with the offense.

The team publicly backed Christian Ponder, but their decision to play Cassel over him despite the fact that he is healthy appears to be a sign that they are ready to move on.

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