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Mike Zimmer thriving with Vikings after years of being passed over

It took Mike Zimmer 20 years to become an NFL head coach. But the wait is starting to pay off.

In his third season with the Vikings, Zimmer is a leading candidate for coach of the year.

MORE: Brady, Ryan, Carr top list of MVP candidates

Despite losing All-Pro running back Adrian Peterson and starting quarterback Teddy Bridgewater to knee injuries, and starting tackles Matt Kalil (hip) and Andre Smith (triceps) with season-ending injuries, the Vikings are 5-1 heading into Monday night’s game in Chicago.

The Vikings were the last team to lose this season and those who know Zimmer aren’t surprised by his early success.