The Minnesota Vikings announced on Wednesday that quarterback Christian Ponder has been cleared to play against the Chicago Bears this weekend and is expected to start in the season finale. Ponder, the Vikings' 2011 first-round pick, was knocked out of last week's game against the Washington Redskins.
Vikings head coach Leslie Frazier told reporters that Ponder is expected to start, barring some unforeseen circumstances. Ponder was forced to leave last week's game against Washington after sustaining a head injury and showing some "concussion-like symptoms" following the hit. Back-up Joe Webb actually came in and led the Vikings to a 33-26 victory, though, so Minnesota does have a decent alternative at the position.
It's been an okay year for Ponder, who has made nine starts for the Vikings this season. He's completed 54.8 percent of his passes for 1825 yards with 13 touchdowns and 12 interceptions. He's also ran for 219 yards on 28 carries, but he's been sacked 29 times, as well. Overall, he's posted a 72.4 passer rating and led the Vikings to a 2-7 record in his starts, but one of those wins required some impressive play by Webb after Ponder left the game.
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