Mike Zimmer may be just one season into his head coaching career, but there have already been a lot of memorable moments in his tenure. Here's a look at five of them.
5. A Promise to the FansFollowing his first night practice at Vikings training camp as head coach, Mike Zimmer took the microphone and spoke to fans. He promised that Vikings fans would be proud of their team because of how hard they would work in practice and because they would play with passion, intelligence and toughness. It was a message well received by the crowd, as they broke out into cheers and chants, and it was a poignant bonding moment between the coach and his team's fans.
4. 2014 Arctic BlastNot even a month into being coach of the Vikings, Zimmer simultaneously participated in two activities the Vikings and Minnesotans value – spending time outside and giving back to the community. Zimmer participated in the 2014 Arctic Blast Snowmobile Rally near Lake Mille Lacs, an annual event that raises money for the Vikings Children's Fund. With a staff to hire and a program to being installing, Zimmer had his hands full last February, but he took time out of his schedule to participate in the fund-raising event as a way to give back and connect with Minnesotans.
3. Tearing up when talking about Xavier RhodesFollowing the 2014 season finale, a win over the Chicago Bears, Zimmer was at the post-game podium addressing reporters in an exchange that included his reactions from the game that had just concluded along with some season-long observations. About half-way through the press conference, Zimmer was asked about second-year CB Xavier Rhodes. Before giving the answer, Zimmer paused to compose himself, providing a brief-but-profound glimpse into how much he cares about his players.
2. First win – at St. Louis in Week 1After an undefeated preseason, Zimmer took his team on the road in Week 1 and they wasted no time collecting their first regular season win. The win came in convincing fashion, too, as their opponents didn't score a touchdown and the Vikings offense scored three while the defense also found the end zone.
1. Finishing 2014 the right wayThe Vikings closed the 2014 season in similar fashion to how they opened it – with a dominating defensive performance that led to victory. Zimmer's defense didn't allow a touchdown to the Chicago Bears, sealing a season-long defensive effort that generated significant improvement. Rookie QB Teddy Bridgewater also finished well, completing 17 of 25 passes for 209 yards, including a 44-yard touchdown toss to Adam Thielen. The season finale victory, which included impressive showings by the defense and the rookie QB, was a fitting end to a season that has many optimistic about the Vikings future.
