Thread: Christian Ponder named backup QB for the Vikings

http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2011/09/05/christian-ponder-will-be-the-backup-in-minnesota/

Joe Webb appeared to outplay Vikings rookie quarterback Christian Ponder in the preseason, but it looks like the No. 12 overall pick (Ponder) will have the backup job in the regular season.

“I think that’s definitely big,” said Ponder, who learned of the decision from reporters. “Obviously, [everyone knew] coming in that it was crucial for me to secure that number two spot. Now, it’s my job to keep it and keep progressing.”

Coach Leslie Frazier was asked if Vikings want to get Webb on the field.

“We do. He’s a tremendous talent. So, we’re exploring some options, and it’s just a matter of whether we want to do it now or two weeks from now, three weeks from now, but we want to utilize his gifts,” Frazier said via Tom Pelissero of espn1500.com.

Makes sense. They'll want to get Ponder learning as quickly as possible, so this means he gets second team reps in practice.
However, if DNabb goes down, will be interesting to see if they actually do put Ponder in, or give Webb a go?

Right on the head IBP. I think it becomes a real issue if McNabb goes down. But for now, they are going this way because it does not really matter ... yet.

Kind of misleading in the sense that in the end the best and most productive qb wins. Right now is just a formality to assign a number to a player who may or may not live up to it or in fact may rise to numero uno.

I really hope this means they will be figuring out creative ways in utilizing Joe Webb's athleticism on Sundays... get him a few bubble screens, let him return Kickoffs, anything to let that 4.4 speed shine on the field

No new news here. They are giving Ponder developmental reps with that move and also keeping the option of using Webb in certain situations in the scheme at different positions while Ponder holds the clip board.

Anothe rinteresting point.

Since the 3rd QB can now be used anytime, do you think Webb might have been #2 if not for that rule change?

They want to use him, but if you have him #3, he's not able to be subbed in during a game unless the first two get hurt.

Originally Posted by "i_bleed_purple" #1107645

Anothe rinteresting point.

Since the 3rd QB can now be used anytime, do you think Webb might have been #2 if not for that rule change?

They want to use him, but if you have him #3, he's not able to be subbed in during a game unless the first two get hurt.

The rule change makes it almost a non-issue. I do think Webb would have been named #2 to start the season without that change. To me, naming Ponder the second stringer is more of a PR move than an overall football decision.

For clarity, the old rule did not prevent the 3rd QB from coming in, but rather the return of QB1 and 2. If the 3rd QB came into the game prior to the 4th quarter, QBs 1 and 2 were uneligible to come back into the game.

Originally Posted by "i_bleed_purple" #1107632

Makes sense. They'll want to get Ponder learning as quickly as possible, so this means he gets second team reps in practice.
However, if DNabb goes down, will be interesting to see if they actually do put Ponder in, or give Webb a go?

Originally Posted by "midgensa" #1107633

Right on the head IBP. I think it becomes a real issue if McNabb goes down. But for now, they are going this way because it does not really matter ... yet.

I agree as well. With the new rule in place this year it really didn't matter who was named 2nd or 3rd.

I do feel though it's more mentally beneficial for Ponder if he is given the back up nod. It should also boost his confidence whereas had he been named 3rd string it could have had a negative mental impact.

I was expecting to see people come out in true PP.O style and start arguing over who "deserved" the #2 spot because one or the other "clearly outplayed" the other in preseason, yada yada yada.

I was pleasantly surprised to see that most people here see it for what it is - a developmental move for Ponder.