Update: Christian Ponder is in uniform and went through warmups with Florida State but did not start the game.Christian Ponder, Florida State's star quarterback, will not start Saturday night's ACC Championship Game against No. 12 Virginia Tech, according to the Tallahassee Democrat.
Ponder has been suffering from arm injuries through the majority of the season and had fluid drained from his right (throwing) arm last Sunday. He has been medically cleared and is available, but coach Jimbo Fisher told the Democrat he wants to give Ponder a chance to get healthy.
Sophomore EJ Manuel will get the start in Ponder's stead.
Ponder began the season with a good amount of hype for the Heisman Trophy. While he has fallen out of contention, he's had a solid senior year, leading the Seminoles to a 9-3 record and a No. 20 ranking. He's thrown for 2,038 yards and 20 touchdowns against eight interceptions -- also adding four rushing touchdowns.
Manuel has seen action in four games -- including significant action in a 16-13 win over Clemson with Ponder ailing. Manuel has completed 31 of 47 passes for 489 yards and two touchdowns. He's thrown two interceptions and has one rushing touchdown.




