Mike Zimmer has a hard time believing two years passed between the Metrodome being torn down before his debut season as Vikings head coach and this morning's first practice at new U.S. Bank Stadium.
"These last two years have gone quick," Zimmer said after the Vikings went through a light workout that lasted about 90 minutes. "Everything has been a whirlwind. But they've done an unbelievable job getting this place ready. It's a great stadium. Great atmosphere. Lot of purple. It's good."
The real test will come at noon Sunday when the Vikings play the Chargers in the third preseason game.
Here are some of Zimmer's other thoughts on the new venue:
–On the sight lines: "The ceiling being able for the sun [to shine through], when we first got here, the sun was kind of poking down there at that end. I've got a sun study on my desk, so there's a lot of things [to consider]. But as far as the on the field and when you're practice and things like that, this one video board on [the north] side is pretty big, so [the players] are going to have to get used to that a little bit.
–On how close the fans are to the field: "It looks like it's nice and close. This side over here is too close with those people behind me." (P.S. He was joking).
–On how bright it is: "It's really bright in here. And I don't think today's a really bright day in here. With the doors open, you can actually feel the wind a little bit down here."
–On whether the doors being open will have an impact on the game: "It wasn't an impact at all today, but it wasn't real windy outside. We'll have to check to see the noise factor, keeping them open or closed."
