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The Questions with Chris Hovan

Vikings Defensive Tackle

What was your welcome-to-the-NFL moment?
The first time I played the Packers as a rookie in 2000. I realized, This is the elite of the elite. I grew up in Cleveland watching the Browns-Steelers rivalry. But it doesn't have the magnitude of Vikings-Packers.

Most embarrassing moment?
Playing at Lambeau Field in a Sunday night game two years ago and getting beer and chew thrown on me.

Most treasured possession?
The statue of St. Jude [patron saint of hopeless causes] in my locker. I bring it with me to every game.

If I weren't in the NFL, I'd be ...
In the military, probably the Marines.

Last Week

Hovan, whom an NFC scout calls "a big-time, try-hard guy" played nosetackle against the Packers and was in on three stops in Vikings' 34-31 loss.

This Week

Minnesota hosts Detroit, against whom Hovan had a career-high 21/2 sacks and a fumble recovery in a 2001 game.

COLOR PHOTO

DILIP VISHWANAT/ICON SMI (HOVAN HEADSHOT)

COLOR PHOTO

RICHARD GABRIELSON/WIREIMAGE.COM (HOVAN PLAYING)