On Sunday, the Minnesota Vikings shocked the world. No, it wasn't in some Kurt Warner "win the Super Bowl" way, but it may as well have been, though they were handed a loss. They kept their game against the undefeated Green Bay Packers close - very close - and even held the lead at more than one point; They started rookie quarterback Christian Ponder in place of Donovan McNabb and Ponder impressed most with his ability, but he still did look like a rookie. At the very least, one would expect Minnesota to move up a couple spots in the week 8 NFL power rankings, but they are holding, instead.
ESPN didn't deviate from their last week assessment:
28. Christian Ponder did well moving outside the pocket and sparking what had been a dead offense. (Clayton)
Having trouble understanding how a team that suddenly looked an awful lot better didn't go up in the rankings at all? It's probably because they're recognizing that he's a rookie, and at any point in the season, that rookie can hit a wall. Ponder might have a bright future in this league, but he isn't likely leading the Vikings in the same manner on a week-to-week basis in his rookie season.