There was a common misconception about veteran Nick Mullens when he took over as the starting quarterback for the Vikings last week.

As the primary backup to franchise player Kirk Cousins over the past couple of seasons, Mullens garnered the reputation of being somebody, who, if called upon, could help the offense function without making too many mistakes.

That’s never been how Mullens plays the position, however, as he long has operated as a gunslinger more than anything else. He’s going to take chances in the name of moving the chains. He’s also going to get himself into trouble at times as a result.

So maybe it shouldn’t come as a surprise that Mullens had some highs and lows during his first start for the Vikings in last week’s 27-24 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals. He finished 26 of 33 passing for 303 yards and a pair of touchdowns. He also threw a pair of interceptions that effectively took points off the board.

“There were a lot of positives to take away,” Mullens said. “Obviously, I’ve got to protect the ball.”

That’s the most important thing for Mullens as the Vikings prepare to host the Detroit Lions on Christmas Eve. There’s going to be instances where he’s able to push the ball downfield against a secondary that is susceptible to giving up big plays. It’s a matter of him being willing to let it rip without trying to do too much.

“There’s definitely a balance of being aggressive and also being situationally aware,” Mullens said. “You’re always trying to find that balance.”

That’s often been easier said than done for Mullens throughout his career.

As an undrafted player out of Southern Miss — home of the ultimate football gunslinger, Brett Favre — Mullens initially served as a spot starter for the San Francisco 49ers when franchise quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo went down. It was hit or miss both seasons as Mullens finished with 13 touchdowns and 10 interception in 2018, then 12 touchdowns and 12 interceptions in 2020.

Though he has more experience now, Mullens has yet to prove he can limit the turnovers.

You could argue that the Vikings would have blown the Bengals out last week had Mullens not turned the ball over twice in the red zone.

His first interception was somewhat forgivable as Mullens simply missed his mark while trying to find star receiver Justin Jefferson in the end zone. His second interception was completely unforgivable as Mullens basically handed the ball over to a defensive lineman while trying to throw it away avoid taking a sack.

“Just take the sack and kick the field goal,” Mullens said. “You already have points there, so take them.”

Is it easy to shift that mindset when his brain seems to be wired to go for broke?

“No,” Mullens said. “Nothing about playing quarterback in the NFL is easy.”

That’s the next step for him in his progression.

“I’ve got to eliminate the mistakes,” he said. “Just stay efficient and protect the ball.”

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