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Packers Or Vikes? Parents Put It Up To A Vote

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- The border battle is a problem that plagues many families in Minnesota and Wisconsin. And if one parent is a Vikings fan and the other a cheesehead, who do the kids root for?

Nine-month-old Desmond Johnson is the object of his parents' affection, but with football season in full swing, he also happens to be the cause of a big dilemma.

"I think it wasn't until this season started that we needed to figure this out," said Desmond's mother, Emily Johnson.

Desmond is stuck in the middle of one of the NFL's biggest rivalries. Emily is a die-hard Green Bay fan, having grown up in Packer household.

"I took drum lessons from the guy who does the 'Go Pack Go," Emily said.

On the other hand, Desmond's Dad, Brady Johnson, bleeds purple and gold.

"I remember when I was little getting autographs in Mankato," Brady said.

When it comes to Desmond's future team, neither parent seems willing to bend. So, the Johnson's decided to leave it up to the public. On SportsIllustrated.com there is a spot where you can make the choice for them. Visit the site and vote if Desmond will become a Vikings or a Packers fan.

"We decided at the end of Halloween, 10/31, midnight, whatever the poll decides is where we will go," Emily said.

Purple pride had the lead Saturday afternoon with 54 percent of the vote.

"People probably resent the Packers being undefeated and just winning the Superbowl," Brady said.

"I think it's all about fatherly bond that does make sense to me," Emily said.

With one parent looking to be the odd man out, the Johnson's are already thinking of a compromise.

"Maybe a second boy," Brady said.

The Johnson's did put Desmond on the Packer season ticket waiting list. He's number 85,000.

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