Live from the Playoff Scene: Former Vikings QB Teddy Bridgewater Steals the Spotlight
The Minnesota Vikings may be out of the postseason, eliminated in the NFC Wild Card round, but their former quarterback Teddy Bridgewater made waves in the playoffs with the Detroit Lions during their matchup against the Washington Commanders.
Bridgewater became a topic of conversation even before kickoff. When the Lions announced their inactives, it was revealed that second-year quarterback Hendon Hooker wouldn’t suit up, leaving Bridgewater as QB2.
The game took an unexpected turn when Lions starter Jared Goff briefly exited following an apparent injury sustained while attempting to tackle after an interception. Though Goff only missed two plays, Bridgewater stepped in to keep the Lions’ offense moving.
In one notable play, Bridgewater handed off the ball to running back Jahmyr Gibbs, who then pitched it to wide receiver Jameson Williams for a thrilling touchdown. Bridgewater’s first official snap resulted in a three-yard completion to Gibbs, showcasing the Lions’ cautious approach to his limited involvement. Despite his efforts, the Commanders ultimately defeated the Lions 45-31 to advance to the NFC Championship.
Fans Rally Behind Bridgewater’s Return
On social media, fans celebrated Bridgewater’s journey back to the field, highlighting his unique story. Bridgewater had been coaching high school football earlier this season, helping Miami Northwestern High School win a state championship. His rapid return to professional football caught the attention of many.
“A few weeks ago, Teddy Bridgewater was coaching his high school team to a state championship,” Barstool Sports posted on X. “Now he’s playing in the NFL Playoffs.”
“THIS GAME IS CRAZY! Teddy Bridgewater was in at QB. Williams takes it 61 yards for a TD!” NFL on Prime Video shared.
Maria Martin of 11Alive News added, “Teddy Bridgewater’s players back at home right now watching their coach in at QB in the NFL playoffs.”
Some fans even compared Bridgewater’s return to the struggles of other players. “Teddy Bridgewater was coaching high school football all fall and shook the rust off faster than Deshaun Watson has in 3 years,” one fan quipped.
Former NFL quarterback Robert Griffin III joined the chorus of praise: “Shoutout to Teddy Bridgewater. Man just gave back to his community and won a High School State Championship at Miami Northwestern in his 1st year as a Head Coach. Now, he led the Lions to a TD drive in the Divisional Round of Playoffs. Bravo, my brother.”
Bridgewater’s brief yet impactful stint in the game demonstrated his resilience and ability to rise to the occasion. While the Lions’ playoff run has ended, Bridgewater’s story continues to inspire both fans and players alike.
