Title etiquette: Packer backers need to behave
Packers fans need to follow proper etiquette while in our state, keeping gloating to a minimum and only during appropriate times.
Last update: February 8, 2011 - 6:45 AM
Here is our statement, on behalf of Vikings fans living in Minnesota: Congratulations to the Packers and their fans. Sunday's Super Bowl victory was well-deserved. Aaron Rodgers is one of the best -- if not the best? -- quarterbacks in the NFL. Everything that happened from Jan. 24, 2010 (Vikings/Saints) until Sunday was pretty much the greatest thing that could have happened to Wisconsin. We understand this. You have the right to enjoy this. And you have bragging rights for the foreseeable future.
However ... here is our advice to Packers fans living in our fair state: You will want to adhere to the guidelines set forth below -- the Articles of Celebration -- in order to bask in the post-Super Bowl afterglow safely, in moderation, and without getting punched by a pack of surly Vikings fans. (Note: Much of this, of course, assumes there is an NFL season):
From now until the start of baseball's spring training, celebrate this title around Vikings fans openly but with a dose of humility. Feel free to point out the obvious virtues of your team. Acceptable subjects include how good Rodgers' numbers would be if his receivers weren't always dropping passes, the playmaking ability of the defense and, yes, how the Packers will be even scarier next year once healthy.
From the start of MLB spring training until the start of NFL training camp, within the borders of Minnesota, you are only allowed to talk about the Super Bowl championship with a Vikings fan if that fan brings it up first. The exception is during the NFL draft (and the two days before and after). During this time, it is once again acceptable to initiate a discussion about Super Bowl MVP Rodgers and the difference between where the Vikings and Packers stand at quarterback.
From the start of training camp until the start of the regular season, as the national media is slobbering all over the Packers and in many cases predicting a return trip to the Super Bowl, you are allowed, within these borders, a maximum of one declaration per week about a repeat -- which can be traded in for up to three smug smiles.
During the regular season -- particularly during the two Vikings/Packers weeks -- you will do well to focus your energy on the present. It is understood that during the playoffs, all bets are off.
Phrases to avoid at all times: "How did that Brett Favre thing work out for you?" ... "You should just give up and come root for the Packers." ... and, most importantly, "I forget. How many Super Bowls have the Vikings won?"
We can all get through this.
MICHAEL RAND