Outdoor Football Returns to Minnesota: Vikings Host Bears at TCF Bank Stadium

Strategic Insights -

The Minnesota Vikings and Chicago Bears faced off in an unusual outdoor game at the University of Minnesota's TCF Bank Stadium on Monday, December 20, 2010. The game was moved from the Metrodome due to damage from a snowstorm that dumped 17 inches on the roof, causing it to fail and dump massive piles of snow on the field. The Vikings' home stadium was hosting a sellout crowd of over 64,000 fans, exceeding its capacity of 50,000.

Key Takeaways:

  • The game was played on a chilly winter evening, with temperatures around 20 degrees and windy conditions.
  • The decision to play the game outdoors without heating elements on the field made it more challenging for the players, but the NFL approved the move, citing it as a traditional way of playing football in Minnesota.
  • The University of Minnesota's TCF Bank Stadium had to be prepared for the game in a short amount of time, with crews shooting the field with blowing machines to clear the snow ahead of the game.
  • Fans were advised to line up outside the stadium, with approximately 3,000 to 4,000 unassigned seats available on a first-come, first-serve basis.
  • The decision not to serve liquor at the stadium due to its dry policy led to some fans expressing disappointment, with one fan joking that they would seek out beers elsewhere if they didn't secure seats.
  • The game was an opportunity for some fans to relive memories of outdoor games at the old Metropolitan Stadium, which hosted the Vikings' last outdoor game in 1981.

Statistics:

  • 17 inches of snow fell on the roof of the Metrodome on December 12-13, causing it to fail.
  • The Vikings moved the game to TCF Bank Stadium due to the damage.
  • The stadium was hosting around 64,000 fans, exceeding its capacity.
  • The temperature outside was around 20 degrees at kickoff.
  • The decision not to serve liquor at the stadium resulted in fans seeking out beers elsewhere.

Sources:

  • The Associated Press Byline: PATRICK CONDON
  • Date: December 20, 2010
  • Minneapolis (AP) --
  • TCF Bank Stadium, Minneapolis
  • University of Minnesota
  • Metrodome
  • Chicago Bears
  • Minnesota Vikings