Bouman Pushes Vikings Back Up

Todd Bouman has taken advantage of three-plus seasons as a Minnesota backup.

On Sunday, he showed off his knowledge of the Vikings’ offensive system and helped them end a slump and stay on the fringe of the NFC playoff race.

As Daunte Culpepper watched from the sideline with a sprained knee, Bouman passed for 348 yards and four touchdowns, leading the Vikings to a 42-24 victory over the Tennessee Titans on Sunday.

“You never know when it’s going to come,” Bouman said. “Brad Johnson told me to be patient, and things will work out if you keep working hard.”

Wide receiver Cris Carter noted the similarity between Bouman and Johnson, who toiled for four seasons before getting his chance to start for Minnesota in 1996.

“They really understand the system, they know where people are going to be,” Carter said.”

The Vikings (5-7), who had lost two straight and four of five, scored four touchdowns in a 12-minute stretch spanning the second and third quarters.

Michael Bennett ran for two touchdowns, finally looking like the back who was supposed to replace the retired Robert Smith. He had 113 yards in 16 carries, the first 100-yard game by a Minnesota back since Smith did it against Detroit on Nov. 30, 2000.

Randy Moss, who reiterated this week he plays only when he wants to play, was booed the first few times his name was announced. But eventually, he was cheered after catching seven passes for 158 yards, including a 73-yard touchdown with 2:35 left.

For the Titans (5-7), the loss all but dashed their playoff chances.

“This is very frustrating,” said safety Perry Phenix. “We play well one week, then the next week we’re inconsistent.”

Minnesota Coach Dennis Green didn’t reveal his starter until Bouman jogged out for the Vikings’ first possession midway through the first quarter.

“I made up my mind about Friday and waited until the last minute to announce it,” Green said. “I didn’t want him under any undue pressure, but we told him Friday and he was ready to go.”

“Friday? I just found out today. I don’t know who told you that,” Bouman said, before realizing he had contradicted his coach. “Friday, Saturday, Sunday, one of those days.”