Dear Brad,

Thank you. Thanks for not being content with last season’s playoff birth. You knew we – Viking nation – wanted more. And you answered that call. It ain’t easy to rock the shaggy face when we’re all used to seeing you as clean-shaven and TCB’ing (taking care of business). But you came in and said this year would be different. Like when you had the guts to add #4 when the popular vote was to not.

And your wisdom proved more than we would know last week. So, thanks.

Look, we all know that tonight’s a big game. But whatever happens, we hope you continue to trust in the courage that got you here. In short – win or lose tonight – we still need your new moxie, no matter what. With that, we implore you to stay true to what’s brought us here so far.

The BEARD.

It must be kept. First and foremost, we all know a coach can’t have less stubble than his QB. The more beard, the more respect from players. He with the longest stubble? He has the conch.

The only time you should shave it off is when it’s sticky from the Gatorade bath in January. Just think of the off-season spokesbeards deals to be had with Norelco or Gilette.

But most of all, you look good. Because the Beard works. The beard wins. The beard leads. The beard brings that edge that we’ve been seeking. And we in purple are grateful.

Yours in folicles,

-Vikings Nation