i think the thinking is that if he goes for 2 and makes it he has 17, but if the Eagles eventually tie it you'll still need a FG to win the game. If you make it 16 and the Eagles score they kick the PAT to go up by 1 and a FG wins it, if you go for two and don't make it you have 15 then the Eagles score a TD and get the 2pt. conversion they have 18 and a FG only ties the game instead of winning it. But I see what you're saying, just trying to give an opinion on what the coach may have been thinking right or wrong.
Hindsight makes it look like a no brainier but 14 minutes to go in the 4th is a lifetime in most games! Infinite scenarios! If you go for two and don't make it, two field goals beat you instead of tying you. Not saying you're wrong about the coach being an idiot, most are and have very little courage when it is needed.
Does that make Brad Childress the smartest?
http://www.advancednflstats.com/2008/09/vikings-2-point-attempt.html
