Introducing the Real Slim Shady

At halftime of the Vikings-Giants game last Sunday, Red McCombs made an on-field appearance. It was during the ceremony to inter Carl Eller into the Vikings "Ring of Honor," which consists of about a dozen polybag-type banners hanging over the concrete facade of the second deck. (And I must admit it is awe-inspiring to see them gently billowing out in the air-conditioned breezes of the Metrodome.) McCombs was there to introduce former Vikings QB Joe Kapp. He's best known for leading the Vikings to their first Super Bowl loss and also during his brief stint as a broadcaster, for describing former Vikings Kicker Benny Ricardo as a "chili chomper." (A term I would not recommend the Elder use in his presentations in Mexico this week). Joe Kapp then introduced Carl Eller. The crowd was hoping Carl would then introduce his God-awful toupee, as it's become one of the Twin Cities' favorite personalities during its many public appearances over the last decade. But alas, Mr. Eller was wearing a hat.

Getting back to Red, his introduction by the PA announcer drew a perfunctory smattering of applause, mixed in with some half-hearted boos and jeering. The crowd was split in its emotions, between apathy and irritation. Given today's news, I think some consensus can be reached now. The Star Tribune reports Red may not even be willing to pony up the $100 million he originally promised, for what is now estimated to be a $600 million football stadium for the Vikings and Gophers. My guess is that the red-headed stranger's strategy for the upcoming legislative season will be attempt to get a stadium without any investment at all (much like his purchase of the team in the first place) and failing that, ramp up the threats to move. Given this, he can expect a greater level of animosity at his next public event, and I don't think even a co-appearance with Carl Eller's toupee can help him now.