Security tight at Packers-Vikings post-season game

GREEN BAY - Fans sporting both green and gold, and purple and gold, packed into and around Lambeau Field.

While the strong division rivalry makes for friendly competition, it can also get out of hand.

Before the game, law enforcement officers didn't have too many problems with unruly fans. But, they say it's going to be a long night.

"It's kind of now when the party really starts,” said Lt. John Laux of the Green Bay Police Department.

Fans danced to the beat at pre-game parking lot parties.

“It's crazy! It's really cool to witness,” said Wade Kraft, a Vikings fan from Ontario, Canada, making his first trip to Lambeau.

“It's really getting out of hand in the parking lots,” said Fred Coppes, a Wisconsin-born Packers fan who now lives in Illinois.

One hundred-plus security staff members say they have their fingers on the pulse of what's happening, both at Lambeau Field, and in the surrounding areas.

"I’m sure the alcohol's been flowing the whole day and we expect a rowdy crowd but we'd like a well-behaved crowd as well. There's definitely huge rivalries with the Vikings, the Bears, the Lions, anybody in the division these are the games we usually have our most ejections, our most arrests and stuff. Plus, it's a Saturday night game. Nobody, or not many people, work tomorrow so they'll have all day to tailgate and have a good time,” said Laux.

The Packers announced earlier this week they'd stop alcohol sales after half time.

“It's a unique circumstance tonight. It's the playoffs, and it's the Vikings. It's something that fans get ramped up for,” said Aaron Popkey with the Packers.

At game time, fans remained split on that policy.

"I think it's wonderful. I think that's a good rule,” said Coppes.

“It had me a little worried, to be honest with you. Like, what am I getting myself into if they're cutting beer sales off? Is it going to be that rowdy? But so far it's been peaceful. It's been nice,” said Kraft.

“Well it's probably for the best anyway. I’ll get my fill in before, and hopefully it'll last ‘til the end of the game and keep me warm,” said Tony Valide, a Packers fan also from Ontario, Canada.

Police say once the party's over here at Lambeau, the patrol officers in the community's night is just beginning.

"The city, I have no doubt, is going to be really busy tonight especially if the Packers have a big victory, people will be out celebrating and stuff. A Packers loss, we expect it to be a little quieter than normal. We're hoping for a win, though, and the police will deal with it,” said Laux.

Law enforcement officers hope fans will keep their cool after Saturday night's match up. A fight broke out in a parking lot one block from Lambeau after the last Packers-Vikings home game. It sent one man to the hospital.