Since beginning his head coaching career with the Minnesota Vikings in 2014, Mike Zimmer has preached toughness and discipline to his players and coaching staff with a no nonsense attitude.
Whenever said players and coaches have failed to exhibit these philosophies, Zimmer has been sure to address it publicly.
Soft offensive line play? Zimmer’s not having it. Questionable play calling by the offensive coordinator? Zimmer will let the whole world know about it.
And yet, when it comes to the head coach’s own short comings, whether that be his mediocre record in nationally televised games, lack of adequately adjusting to the strategies of opposing teams, operating as a glorified defensive coordinator in delegating all offensive responsibilities to offensive coordinators, or the team’s one playoff victory in five years after his vaunted defense collapsed in the second half, the Vikings feel the need to protect Zimmer from the public pressure.