Shaun Hill: 'I'll be ready' if Bridgewater can't play Sunday

By foxsports
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Shaun Hill was thrust into emergency action after Teddy Bridgewater was injured on what many Minnesota Vikings players and coaches deemed a “cheap shot” by St. Louis Rams cornerback Lamarcus Joyner early in the fourth quarter of the team’s 21-18 overtime victory. Given that Bridgewater is going through the NFL’s concussion protocol, meaning his status for next Sunday’s game against the Oakland Raiders is unsettled, the veteran backup indicated he’ll be prepared to play if needed.

“I feel comfortable in our system,” said the 35-year-old Hill, via the Pioneer Press. “I feel confident in this team. Obviously, everybody hopes that Teddy is back and ready to go. But my job description can change in the blink of an eye. Whatever it is, I’ll be ready.”

Hill was unspectacular at best in relief of Bridgewater, completing two of six passes for 15 yards. But he will rely on his experience should he need to start in Bridgewater’s stead.

Bridgewater reportedly was in “good spirits” after the game but could not comment on his condition due to league policy that prevents players going through the NFL-mandated concussion protocol from speaking to the media.

Vikings head coach Mike Zimmer, who didn’t hold back in criticizing the Rams for dirty play in his postgame comments and gave Rams head coach Jeff Fisher the cold shoulder during their postgame handshake — refused to speculate on Bridgewater’s potential availability for Sunday’s game against the Raiders.

“I don’t know,” he said. “I haven’t had a concussion before, so I don’t know how serious it is.”

Regardless of the speculated intent that the Rams were trying to hurt Bridgewater, the injury is a tough blow to the 6-2 Vikings should he be unable to start Sunday. While he has had an uneven second season, he nevertheless gives the Vikings the best chance to win football games. But Hill, who has made 34 career starts in 14 NFL seasons, vows he will be prepared to give it a go if Bridgewater cannot.

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