Minnesota Vikings quarterback Christian Ponder has been listed as questionable all week for Sunday's game at the Detroit Lions, but the rookie expects to start according to reported comments the rookie had concerning the injury.
Ponder spent the week tending to a hip injury suffered in last week's loss to the Denver Bronocs with various forms of treatment and now feels as though he will be able to give it a go on Sunday.
"I'm confident that I'll be able to go. I think it's a matter of my effectiveness," he said. "I don't know how effective I'll be. I would like to think I'd be playing 100 percent, but I don't know if that's 100 percent true."
If Ponder can indeed play, it will give the rookie a chance to earn more respect from his teammates, showing his willingness to play through an injury as the team continues to struggle to notch wins. Adrian Peterson hopes to return to the backfield, as well but may still be limited, so Ponder will remain a focal point of the Vikings offense if he can remain in the game and avoid a setback with his hip.
Backup quarterback Joe Webb will be ready to step in for Ponder, if needed. He has taken most of the practice reps this week for Minnesota, preparing as if he will start.