Vikings' Name New Coach

Zygi Wilf was looking for more than just a winner when he interviewed candidates for the Minnesota Vikings' coaching vacancy.

After a first season as an NFL owner littered with ticket scalping, Whizzinators and scandalous boat parties off the field, and a disappointing 9-7 record on it, Wilf wanted a steadying presence.

Philadelphia offensive coordinator Brad Childress was hired Friday to replace the fired Mike Tice, whose four-season tenure was plagued by player malfeasance and only moderate success.

"Coach Childress was the elite NFL head coaching candidate," Wilf said. "He embodies class, character and discipline and is a great family man. Bottom line, Brad Childress is a winner."

Childress, who signed a five-year guaranteed contract, knows what lies ahead. He quoted former football coach Gene Stallings that, "the fun in this business is winning." But he added a caveat.

"The mandate is clear, however, that it needs to be done with the class and dignity that the Wilf family exudes," said Childress, dressed for the part in a purple tie and Vikings lapel pin.