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LAFAYETTE — It's no secret that for many fans in South Louisiana, football is more than just a game. It's a way of life, a gathering point, a time to either celebrate or mourn depending on the success of one's favorite team.


For thousands of fans, there's also a certain ritual that goes with cheering for a team. It might involve a certain meal. Maybe a well-worn item of clothing, watching the game in a certain position, or even not watching at all.

All of those tactics are being used this season by superstitious New Orleans Saints fans, and despite the team's first loss last Saturday against the Dallas Cowboys, some say they don't plan to stray from the routine.

Nicole Boudreaux of Arnaudville said her mother, Debbie, a lifelong Saints fan, has a hard time simply sitting and watching the game.

"She has been a fan since I was little," Boudreaux said. "I can remember her throwing shoes, remotes — anything in her reach — if the ref made a call she didn't like. She jumps and screams and everything else possible she can in a home. She is in front of that TV bright and early Sunday mornings, watching the pre-shows and all."

Boudreaux added that her mom must also watch the games in full Saints attire.

"She has a few different jerseys, and whatever jersey she has on when they win is the one she will wear until they lose. Then it's time for a different one, along with her Saints foam hand, her Saints hard hat," Boudreaux said. "She is now trying to make my 18-month-old little boy into a Saints fan. He can tell you 'touchdown' and put those hands in the air."

Jaime Hebert said that even though her husband, Cory, has several Saints jerseys, it's quarterback Drew Brees' No. 9 — the white jersey — that must be worn when watching every game.

"He is obsessed. He's been a fan of Drew's since he played at Purdue, and Cory has followed his career from Purdue to the San Diego Chargers to his home now here with the Saints," Hebert said.

In addition, Hebert said her husband insists on dressing their children in Saints attire for the games, and he must be sitting on their couch for kickoff.

Saints fans look for edge | dailyworld.com | Daily World

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