2011 NFL Draft Results: The Vikings Land Christian Ponder at No. 12

The Minnesota Vikings have shocked everyone by passing on Da'Quan Bowers, Robert Quinn and Prince Amukamara. They instead take the talented QB from Florida State Christian Ponder!

This pick is shocking due to Ponder's grade being bottom of the first early in the second round. But this is by no means the wrong pick.

Offensive coordinator Bill Musgrave runs a west coast offense which Ponder is ideal for. Remember Jo Montana and the original west coast offense in San Francisco? This is the guy who draws comparisons to Montana.

The only thing that fans will point to is the "reach" issue. Sure Ponder could have been had later, there is no question about that. But what you have to realize is that when you feel like you have the guy available, you have to take the guy!

This is the moment Vikings fans have been waiting for since Daunte Culpepper flamed out. The new young quarterback to follow into the future. Minnesota will benefit from his NFL readiness immediately. He has played pro style offense his entire career. This isn't a bad pick, perhaps it wasn't gutsy, but it is the pick they want and I can't disagree with it.

Look forward to the smart precision passing to Percy Harvin to become a good combination. Harvin benefits from Musgrave and now the west coast passer who can take advantage of his speed and toughness in the middle of the field.

Adrian Peterson no longer is going to have to carry the team either. While in college and at the senior bowl Ponder was excellent against the top competition.

More detailed stats to follow.

The breaking news! Christian Ponder is the new franchise in Minnesota!