The Minnesota Vikings took on the Detroit Lions on Sunday. The game didn’t have any kind of playoff implications for the Vikings, but the young team wanted to continue to have their players develop and get a win to spoil Detroit’s playoff run. Sadly, that didn’t happen. But the team did get close. And you can thank Teddy Bridgewater for both of those things.
With the exception of two plays, Bridgewater had an excellent game. Here were his statistics for the game:
Dec 14, 2014; Detroit, MI, USA; Minnesota Vikings quarterback Teddy Bridgewater (5) runs the ball during the second quarter against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports
41 passes attempted
31 completed passes
75.6% completion percentage
315 passing yards
1 passing touchdown
3 rushes for 30 yards
and sadly
- 2 interceptions
Yes, those two plays I referenced earlier came on back to back possessions where Bridgewater made some poor decisions resulting in interceptions. Those interceptions led to 10 Detroit Lions points and helped them eclipse the lead that Minnesota had established.
There were other contributing factors for the Vikings collapse. Missed field goals, poor clock management and offensive line struggles contributed. But Bridgewater is supposed to be the GUMP. Great Under Major Pressure.
Still, there is plenty to be encouraged about. This was Bridgewater’s second consecutive game going over 300 passing yards and his third straight game completing over 70% of his passes.
Bridgewater will face another tough test next week when the Vikings play the stout defense of the Miami Dolphins. Cornerback Brent Grimes is currently tied for 2nd in the NFL for most interceptions, notching 5 on the season so far.
Will Bridgewater continue his streak of 300+ passing yards and completing over 70% of his passes on Sunday? And more importantly, will the rookie passer make better decisions so opposing offenses have to work harder to win?
We’ll find out Sunday.