Top Performers: Week 13

Vikings QB Bouman steps up in place of Culpepper

Todd Bouman threw four touchdowns and only one interception in his first NFL start. AP

By B. Duane Cross, CNNSI.com

First, a little background. It could be a script straight from To Tell the Truth: He was a three-year starter for the St. Cloud State Huskies. … He ranks second in school history in total offense (5,050 yards), third in passing (4,354 yards) and fourth in completions (326) and touchdown passes (30). … He was an honorable mention Successful Farming All-America team member in 1996, an award given to athletes from a ranch or farm.

Give up?

OK, here's some more info: He has spent the most time in the Minnesota Vikings' system of any quarterback on the roster. … In 1999, he led the Barcelona Dragons to a berth in the World Bowl.

Ladies and gentlemen, Vikings fifth-year QB Todd Bouman, he of the zero NFL attempts prior to a two-pass game Oct. 28. Last week against Pittsburgh, he was 11-of-15 for 200 yards, two TDs and one interception.

With Daunte Culpepper on the sideline with a sprained knee Sunday, Bouman threw for 348 yards and four TDs to lead Minnesota to a 42-24 win against the Tennessee Titans.

"You never know when it's going to come," says Bouman. "[Former teammate] Brad Johnson told me to be patient, and things will work out if you keep working hard."

Here are this week's Top Performers:

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