NFL Minnesota Vikings

Teddy Bridgewater Will Be X-Factor For Minnesota Vikings In Week 6

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By @bradberreman24

Teddy Bridgewater, Minnesota Vikings, NFL Week 6

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The Minnesota Vikings were facing a tough task in Week 5, heading to Lambeau Field to take on the Green Bay Packers on a short week. Quarterback Teddy Bridgewater’s left ankle injury from the previous Sunday had his status up in the air all week, and when he was declared inactive Christian Ponder got the start. The end result, a 42-10 loss last Thursday night, was not too surprising and it’s worth wondering if Bridgewater would have made much difference if he had been healthy enough to play.

Bridgewater is fully expected to start in Week 6 against the Detroit Lions, and the Vikings have a chance to move into a tie for first place in the NFC North with a victory. The Lions are coming off a disappointing loss to the Buffalo Bills last Sunday, and multiple key offensive players are banged up heading into this coming Sunday’s game.

The Lions have a top-10 defense across the board so far this season, including allowing 208 passing yards per game (fifth in the league) and 12 sacks. But they allowed 308 passing yards to Kyle Orton last week, and they’ve only intercepted two passes in their last four games. Bridgewater’s ability to escape the pocket will be a key factor in the success of Minnesota’s offense against a formidable Lions’ defensive line, and if he can make good decisions while avoiding negative plays the Vikings will be in line to win the turnover battle and get a critical win in a division game.

Having Bridgewater back in the lineup, assuming he remains on track to play, will provide a boost to the entire team on Sunday. That’s why the rookie signal caller is clearly the Vikings’ x-factor for Week 6.

Brad Berreman is a Columnist at Rant Sports.com. Connect on Google +. 

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