Nov 7, 2013; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings quarterback Matt Cassel (16) calls a play during the fourth quarter against the Washington Redskins at Mall of America Field at H.H.H. Metrodome. The Vikings defeated the Redskins 34-27. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports
Vikings backup quarterback Matt Cassel led the team on a couple of potential game winning drives after relieving the once again injured Christian Ponder in the game against the Chicago Bears on Sunday. However, what Cassel said after the game gives even more reason to believe that Cassel should be ahead of Ponder on the depth chart.
"Dec 1, 2013; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings quarterback Matt Cassel (16) throws during the fourth quarter against the Chicago Bears at Mall of America Field at H.H.H. Metrodome. The Vikings defeated the Bears 23-20 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports“I think I’m a little tired,” Cassel said. “That was, emotionally, such an amazing game. I think that it just, for any of us, this is what we get paid to do. Our job is not to complain or worry about this, that or the other or who’s playing, who’s not playing. Our job is to go out, prepare and put yourself in the best position possible to be successful on Sunday.”"
The Vikings overcame many obstacles in this game. Dumb penalties, missed field goals, and more hindered this team’s chances to win. But somehow, with Cassel at the helm, this game never felt out of reach for Minnesota.
"“He’s a great guy to have in your back pocket,” Vikings wide receiver Greg Jennings said of Cassel."
Even head coach Leslie Frazier had some praise for Cassel.
"“It’s unfortunate that Christian got injured, great that Matt came in and did the things he did,” said Frazier. “We’ll sit down Monday and talk about where we are and figure out where Christian is health-wise over the course of the week. Matt did a good job in relief; there’s no doubt about it. We’ll monitor Christian’s health throughout the week. We’ll sit down as a staff and talk about what’s the best direction to go.”"
Nov 3, 2013; Arlington, TX, USA; Minnesota Vikings quarterback Matt Cassel (16) and quarterback Christian Ponder (7) during warmups before the game against the Dallas Cowboys at AT
So, it sounds like the Vikings aren’t ready to name a starter for next week’s game against the Baltimore Ravens. Even though he doesn’t know for sure, it sounds like Cassel will be ready if his number is called.
"“You know what? I don’t make those decisions, to be completely honest with you,” said Cassel. “My job is to go out and get prepared each and every week, and whatever the coach asks me to do, you know what? I’m gonna do it and put my best foot forward.”"