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Preparing a snowy college stadium for the NFL isn't an easy task


Moving Monday night's Minnesota Vikings-Chicago Bears game to the University of Minnesota is proving to be just as much of a headache than fixing the Metrodome. In addition to the sub-freezing temperatures expected for next week's primetime affair, there is a lot that needs to get done between now and then to have TCF Bank Stadium ready for the NFL.  
[Amazing video: Metrodome roof collapses | Photos: The dome before and after]
• The snowstorm that led to the Metrodome collapse is also hampering efforts to get TCF Bank Stadium ready for Monday. Seventeen inches of snow fell on Minneapolis and led to snow drifts as high as five feet at the stadium. A crew of 400 has been hired to help clear the snow from the field, stands and concourses. The stadium has also asked for volunteers to come help dig out. (Shovels will be provided.)
• The stadium seats 50,000 fans, but 63,000 tickets have been sold for Monday's game because the Metrodome holds 63,000. There have been talks of adding temporary seating for the game.
[Related: Metrodome roof collapse rekindles stadium debate]
• TCF Bank Stadium was last used on Thanksgiving weekend when Minnesota defeated Big 10 rival Iowa, 27-24. Since then the field has been winterized, as there was no plan to use it again for a major event until next year. 
[Fan's reaction: Top 5 reasons to build a new stadium for the Vikings]
• Because no beer sales are allowed for college events held on campus, there are no beer taps installed at the concession stands of TCF Bank Stadium. Officials are discussing whether alcohol will be sold at the game. With those cold temperatures and Tarvaris Jackson(notes) at quarterback, Vikings fans are going to need some.
• Those concession stands are going to have bigger issues than a lack of Budweiser. They weren't designed to withstand temperatures less than 30 degrees. Overnight lows on Monday are forecasted to be near zero, with a windchill of minus-15. (Image via weather.com)
 
• To combat the frigid temps, shields will be placed around the stands and bathrooms to make them serviceable. (To shield what, exactly? Ice?)
• It is expected to cost $700,000 to get the stadium ready for Monday night. The NFL and Vikings will cover the tab.
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Related: Tarvaris Jackson, Chicago Bears, Minnesota Vikings. 

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