Vikings vs. Titans: Questions Christian Ponder Can Answer in Minnesota Debut

The Minnesota Vikings surprised a lot of people when they took Christian Ponder with the 12th overall pick in the 2011 NFL Draft.

It's clear they want Ponder to be the quarterback of the future. But, they don't want him to be their starter just yet. They traded for Donovan McNabb to be a one or two-year stopgap at the position.

Still, Ponder has a lot to prove this preseason. He needs to look sharp or else the Vikings are going to look horrible this preseason.

Neither McNabb nor Ponder have had much time to learn the Minnesota offense, so expect a stagnant offensive performance. Still, Ponder can still prove his worth in the four exhibition games.

Here are three questions he can answer this preseason.

3. Does He Have the Accuracy and Timing Necessary for the NFL?

Ponder completed nearly 62 percent of his passes for the Florida State Seminoles.

Will that accuracy translate to the NFL? And, how well does he click with the Vikings' wide receivers?

I'll be looking to see how he performs in his first game of action.

2. Will the Offense Be in Good Hands If Donovan McNabb Gets Hurt?

Ponder is the backup quarterback for the Vikings in 2011. McNabb is the first string, but he struggled mightily last season with the Washington Redskins.

If he struggles again, or gets hurt, Ponder will have to take over the offense. I'm interested in seeing if the offense will be in good hands should McNabb get hurt or benched.

He can go a long way towards settling that argument with a good showing tonight.

1. How Bright Is Ponder's Future?

Ponder has the potential to be a good NFL quarterback in the future.

He has a good head on his shoulders and has an arm that can survive in the NFL. He has all the tools necessary, but can he make those tools translate to wins?

We'll have to see if he can lead the Vikings to some preseason victories, since he'll probably be the one getting the majority of snaps.