Tice to stay with Vikings in 2005

MINNEAPOLIS, Dec. 27 (UPI) -- Mike Tice will continue to coach the Minnesota Vikings for at least one more season.

The Vikings Monday extended Tice's contract, which was to expire this week, for 2005.

"I think it will be good for the players because they won't have to hear (about his status) all week," Tice said.

The Vikings have an 8-7 record with a chance to make the playoffs. Like last year, they started fast and slumped, having won just three of their last nine games.

Minnesota has a 23-25 record since Tice became coach in 2001.