Metrodome Roof Collapses, Giants-Vikings Game Moved to Ford Field
As if having Brett Favre injured and a 5-7 record this season weren’t bad enough, the Minnesota Vikings’ house literally came down, forcing the team to lose home field advantage in their game against the New York Giants, on Sunday,
relocating to play in Detroit, Michigan at the historic Ford Field.
But what happened?
The Vikes’ home field, the Metrodome, was subject to a severe snow storm that passed through Minnesota on Saturday. The inflatable Teflon roof of the Metrodome collapsed under the sheer weight of the snow, making the stadium too
dangerous to play in.
The game was already postponed by about six hours because of the storm, as the Giants’ flight was diverted to Kansas City on Saturday, since air travel in Minnesota was grounded.
"At this point I would play this game in a parking lot," Giants defensive end Justin Tuck said.
Roy Terwilliger, chairman for the Metropolitan Sports Facilities Commission, said that he is sure that the roof can be fixed in time for the Vikes’ next home game on December 20th against the Chicago Bears. This will
give workers eight days to re-raise the Teflon roof and replace three damaged panels.
The roof of the ‘Dome collapsed on Sunday at around 5:00 in the morning.
"We've worked particularly close with the Vikings over the last two or three years on plans and designs and steps and obviously it can't help but call attention to the fact that the facility is 28 years old," Terwilliger said.
"It's one of the oldest facilities in the NFL. There's a problem when we run this risk of not being able to play a game, because it's a huge economic hit to the team. But the policymakers will handle these issues."
A large piece of the roof was torn away and the snow fell through a rip, which covered most of the field.
Workers are presently consulting with the roof material’s manufacturer to plan whether pieces have to be replaced or repaired. No other damage was done to the stadium.
"There were no injuries, which we're thankful for," said Bill Lester, the executive director of the Metropolitan Sports Facilities Commission.
On Sunday morning, workers were standing on the concrete rim of the stadium, removing snow. The white bubble roof could no longer be seen.
Those who had tickets for the game will be admitted to Monday’s game and will be given preferred seats next to the 50 yard line. Starting Monday morning, general admission tickets will be free as long as supplies last, from the
Ford Field box office. Those unable to attend the game and had original tickets will be given full refunds.
The Metrodome has collapsed three times in the past. It deflated because of heavy snow in 1981, 1982, and 1983. Hopefully, this will be the last time.
The Giants versus Vikings game is set to start at 7:20 PM ET on Monday December 13th at the Ford Field.
Stay tuned!
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