The Vikings are in River Falls, Wisconsin today to meet the Chiefs in their annual scrimmage. I was going to journey down to witness it…then decided I had better things to do than drive for hours on a scorching hot day in a car with busted air conditioning.  And I’m not the only one who skipped the trip as it turns out…so did Jared Allen, who was all set to go up against his old team before the Vikes pulled the plug.  Brad Childress explains (via Access Vikings):

I’m going to be selective in the guys that need to compete over there because I want to look at as many young guys as I can.

I have no problem with Chilly giving Jared the day off.  He’s been busting his ass in camp by all accounts, mostly at the expense of Bryant McKinnie, and could probably use a blow.  And I’m sure Chiefs O-lineman Branden Albert is relieved…he was certainly not looking forward to having his butt handed to him.  The Arrowhead Addict gang may be disappointed, but that’s how it is.  And honestly…what does it say about your team’s prospects if you’re getting that stoked over a “showdown” in a scrimmage?  It’s practice guys.  Towel off.

Bonus coverage:  Judd Zulgad (who did go to River Falls, because that’s his job and I’m sure his air conditioning works) says Steve Hutchinson and Matt Birk also stayed home, and probably other veterans as well.  So all the Vikings fans who paid their 10 bucks to get in…hope you enjoy your big dose of Chase Johnson, John Sullivan and Artis Hicks.