Christian Ponder, Antoine Winfield Questionable for Vikings vs. Packers

Quarterback Christian Ponder and cornerback Antoine Winfield will try to overcome injuries to lead the Minnesota Vikings to victory over their NFC North rivals, the Green Bay Packers.

According to Dan Hanzus of NFL.com, Ponder (elbow) and Winfield (hand) are both questionable for Saturday’s Wild Card showdown at Lambeau Field. Ponder was limited in practice all week, while Winfield didn’t participate Wednesday or Thursday and was limited on Friday. 

Ponder injured his elbow in last week’s win over the Packers, but head coach Leslie Frazier expects him to be ready Saturday, according to Tom Pelissero of 1500ESPN.com.

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I think he'll be all right. He's going to do everything he can to make sure he's ready to go. He's doing a lot more stuff mentally than physical right now. But he should be fine.

 

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Ponder struggled this season, but helped the Vikings clinch a playoff spot by throwing for 234 yards, three touchdowns and no interceptions against the Packers in Week 17. 

Antoine Winfield suffered a broken hand against the Houston Texans in Week 16, but did try to play last week. He managed to stay in for two quarters before leaving the game. Winfield will attempt to play again this week, this time with a hard cast. 

The 35-year-old recorded 100 tackles and three interceptions this season, his 14th in the NFL.

Minnesota’s injury report also rules out linebacker Tyrone McKenzie (shoulder) and lists eight other players as probable.

For the Packers, DE Jerel Worthy (knee) and WR Jarrett Boykin (ankle) have been ruled out. Running back James Starks (knee) is questionable and seven other players are probable.