Sam Bradford Named NFC Offensive Player Of The Week

Image courtesy of Vikings.com

Sam Bradford Named NFC Offensive Player Of The Week

Minnesota Vikings quarterback Sam Bradford had himself a game Monday night against the New Orleans Saints. He completed 27 of 32 passes for 346 yards and three touchdowns, leading the Vikings to a 29-19 win over New Orleans.

The first-overall pick of the 2010 draft set career highs in passing yards and passer rating (143.0). His completion percentage of 84.4% is a Vikings record for a season opener. With Bradford under center, the Vikings gained 470 yards of total offense, going 9-of-14 on third down (64%).

It’s the first time in Bradford’s career that he has received this honor. According to Vikings.com, Bradford is the eleventh player under head coach Mike Zimmer to win the award. The last Vikings quarterback to win NFC Offensive Player of the Week was Brett Favre back in 2009.

Bradford fed off the play of his offensive line and delivered strikes downfield when given time in the pocket. According to Pro Football Focus, the 29 year-old had a perfect quarterback rating under pressure (158.3) and perfect deep passer rating (158.3). He had the highest PFF grade of all NFL quarterbacks in Week 1.

“Obviously, it’s cool. I think if you get named that obviously you played well and you helped your team win. But, I think the win and starting the season 1-0, that was the biggest thing of the week,” Bradford said about receiving the recognition.

“My approach is to come here each day to try to get better,” Bradford said. “Try to be the best teammate I can be, the best leader I can be.  Figure out how to help us win. I think that’s what it’s really all about. If we find ways to win then hopefully the rest takes care of itself.”

Bradford, who was recently named a team captain, gave his teammates credit for the win and said the offensive line should receive the game ball. Quite a humble gesture from the Vikings signal caller that statistically had the best game of his career.

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