Ponder will start for Vikings against Packers; cleared of concussion symptoms, Freeman returns

FILE - In this Sept. 22, 2013 file photo, Minnesota Vikings quarterback Christian Ponder (7) celebrates after scoring on a 6-yard touchdown run during the first half of an NFL football game against the Cleveland Browns, in Minneapolis. Ponder has come full circle for the Vikings. He made his first career start against Green Bay, and now after being benched this season for a few weeks he's back in command of the offense with the Packers coming to town. (AP Photo/Ann Heisenfelt, File) (The Associated Press)

FILE - In this Oct. 21, 2013, file photo, Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Greg Jennings (15) runs during the second half of an NFL football game against the New York Giants in East Rutherford, N.J. The Vikings receiver spent seven seasons in Green Bay before signing with the NFC North archrivals in the offseason. He’s about to square off for the first time against his old team when the Packers visit the Vikings on Sunday night. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun, File) (The Associated Press)

Christian Ponder will be Minnesota's starting quarterback again on Sunday night.

Vikings coach Leslie Frazier made the announcement Friday. Josh Freeman took the last turn on the carousel, but after his rough performance on Monday night he reported concussion-like symptoms. Freeman was cleared to resume practicing with the team on Friday, but Frazier decided that was too late in the week for him to catch up with the game plan and get ready to play Green Bay.

So after being benched for Matt Cassel earlier this month, Ponder has the job again.

The best game of Ponder's NFL career came against the Packers last year, a victory by the Vikings to finish the regular season and reach the playoffs.

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