Ponder's Alright

Poised, quick, risk-taker

Christian Ponder kept Vikes close

Impressive debut

(A Haggy Haiku)

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It wasn't the first career start had by Cowboys running back DeMarco Murray, who gained a franchise best 253 yards, or the effort of Cam Newton in his debut last month, but Vikings quarterback Christian Ponder certainly demonstrated the value and potential he has at the game's most important and high-profile position.
Ponder threw the ball down the field in a way his mentor Donovan McNabb didn't.
He ran or threw the ball away when there was nothing available.
He stood poised in the pocket and delivered strong, relatively accurate throws with defenders bearing down on him.
And he ultimately seemed to inspire the best effort put forth by the Minnesota Vikings all season long.
So what if Minnesota lost to bitter rival Green Bay 33-27.
So what if the defeat drops the team to 1-6.
Ponder did his part, throwing for two touchdowns and 219 yards.
The 40.6 percent accuracy and two interceptions need improving, but certainly aren't telling.
Minnesota should be excited for Carolina.