Hey, the hashmarks for the Vikings/Falcons game were in the wrong place

File this under amusing and not really a big deal, but let's acknowledge it anyway:

December 4, 2017 at 8:19PM
(Howard Sinker/The Minnesota Star Tribune)
(The Minnesota Star Tribune)

File this under amusing and not really a big deal, but let's acknowledge it anyway:

When the Vikings defeated the Falcons on Sunday in Atlanta, they were playing in a venue (Mercedes-Benz Stadium) that had just hosted the SEC title game the previous night.

As a result, crews had to pull a quick turnaround to make the field NFL-ready. They succeeded — almost. Per a pregame report, the hashmarks on the field were painted about seven inches inside of where they were supposed to be painted.

Both teams were informed of the problem before the game, and officials released this statement: "Due to the flip from last night's game, the hash marks were painted closer than normal. The officials are aware and have a plan in place for marking the ball today. There will not be any issues that impact the game. Game operations in New York has also been consulted and is aware of the situation."

about the writer

about the writer

Michael Rand

Columnist / Reporter

Michael Rand is the Minnesota Star Tribune's Digital Sports Senior Writer and host/creator of the Daily Delivery podcast. In 25 years covering Minnesota sports at the Minnesota Star Tribune, he has seen just about everything (except, of course, a Vikings Super Bowl).

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