CalVike wrote:I am very happy with the win, the excellence of AD, and the defensive INTs that allowed the Vikes to win today in the absence of any offensive points other than the short 5.5 yard drive after the very first drive of the game. But I worry that this team is setting up for another heartbreaker. Many on this Board don't think this season was ever about anything other than rebuilding, but I think it was always about making the playoffs for those in the know. Zygi Wilf reportedly addressed the team on Friday for the first time all season, which indicates everything is on the line. I also honestly believe the decision makers on the team believe Ponder gives the team a good chance to win every week, far better than any other QB on the roster. Who am I to argue? They are 3-2 in the division. They have improved the team dramatically over last year. They may make a legitimate playoff run from 7-6. Both Spielman and Frazier have earned contract extensions after the season. But I cannot see how a QB, even one being asked to do very little, can lead a legitimate playoff run when he throws for 91 yards and leads only one scoring drive. Misfiring on the TD to Wright on the bomb is a disaster for any team, apparently except ours. It is notable that Cutler did not play particularly well, did not play the whole game, had WRs with the dropsies, completed only 50% of his passes, had a generally lousy game missing open WRs at times, threw two horrible INTs, and threw for 260 yards, almost three times Ponder. I cannot accept a QB who managed the game like Ponder today as acceptable on any level.
I pretty much agree with your entire post. I especially agree with you about the Vikings being an improved team over last year.
That said, I just want to add that the Vikings are 6-1 at home but a dismal 1-5 on the road. They're going to have to do far better on the road if they want to be a playoff team. I'm thinking that the upcoming games at St. Louis and especially Houston could be bad news for the Vikings.
