Leslie Frazier Expresses Confidence In Christian Ponder

Dec 2, 2012; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (12) (left) greets Minnesota Vikings quarterback Christian Ponder (7) (right) following the game at Lambeau Field. The Packers defeated the Vikings 23-14. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

Today has become Official Dump On Christian Ponder Day in Viking Nation. That’s okay, I’m fine with that. He played terribly yesterday. Even he had to admit that. After the game Ponder took the onus all on himself. “For what this game means to the team, the state, with how Adrian played, it’s disappointing to go out and throw two interceptions,” Ponder said. “There’s a couple more plays besides that I wish I could have got back. All I can do is come back to work tomorrow and try to get better.”

While Ponder was dumping on himself, his teammates and coaches were offering words of encouragement. Adrian Peterson and Kevin Williams both gave Ponder little pep talks after the game. And Leslie Frazier did nothing but express confidence in Ponder in both his post game presser and his Monday presser. And he made it clear that the Vikes will not consider benching Ponder. Frazier said, “Up to this point, I’ve been felt it’s best for our team that Christian remain our No. 1 quarterback, and I still feel that way.”

Really, what choice does Frazier have but to give Ponder the vote of confidence? He knows good and well that Joe Webb is not the answer. He also realizes what a long shot the Vikings are to make the playoffs now that they’re 6-6. So benching Ponder would serve no purpose. It would not give you a better chance to win these last four games. And it certainly wouldn’t help your long-term prospects. Webb will not be the starting QB in 2013. These last four games must be used to get Ponder right both in his mechanics and his mental approach, in hopes that he can develop into a true leader for the future.

The evaluation process continues not only for Ponder but the entire roster. And when the season is over, Rick Spielman can get back to the task of filling holes. And there are lots of holes to fill.

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