Vikes Fans Fired Up About Chilly, Snowy Game
MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- The Minnesota Vikings' game against the Chicago Bears at TCF Bank Stadium is set to begin at 7:30 Monday night. But because tickets are general admission, fans arrived as early as mid-morning.
Before the game, fans were enthusiastic and unconcerned with the cold and heavy snowfall. For some, even without shirts.
Nearby bars and restaurants were equally enthusiastic. TCF Bank Stadium does not serve alcohol.
Two men there from El Paso, Texas bought their tickets months ago.
"This is what it's all about, football weather right here, snow. It doesn't get any better than this. Best friend right here," said Danny Guardado.
Their friendship reaches across the line of scrimmage. Guardado supports the Bears. His friend, the Vikings.
"Rivalry. This is what the rivalry's all about," added Guardado.
Some fans chose to wait in a warm restaurant with a cold beer.
"I live for this. I go down to Chicago year and go to Soldier Field and put the gear on, so I'm used to this. So I'm excited about the fact that this happens once in a great lifetime," said Bears fan Manny Guerra.
Directly across from TCF Bank Stadium, a Buffalo Wild Wings location opened exactly 1 week ago. They see it as a great opportunity. Inside, it seemed only one person was worried about the weather. Her boyfriend, a Bears fan, dragged her from Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
"Not looking forward to it," she said.
One Vikings fan got his parents' tickets.
"They didn't want to brave the cold," said Graham Merry. "I said I wanted them, so we're going to go put on some snow pants and go sit in the cold."
Out in the cold, many fans wanted to get in line early for a chance at seats on the 50 yard line. One group of fans from Fargo brought a tent just big enough for three, plus snacks.
Gopher Basketball's Williams Arena was left open for people to use to keep warm, but few fans took advantage.
The University of Minnesota said if the game doesn't sell out, students with an ID will be able to get in for free. An hour and a half before the game, the stadium was half full.
WCCO-TV's Esme Murphy Reports
