It’s Cheers--Not Jeers--for Norwood

Tens of thousands of Buffalo Bills fans who attended a post-Super Bowl rally had something to say to place-kicker Scott Norwood, the man who failed to win the big game for them:

“We love Scott! We love Scott!”

The crowd interrupted master of ceremonies Kevin Keeley on Monday to tell Norwood that he was forgiven for missing a last-minute field goal that would have given the Bills a victory over the New York Giants.

Norwood had tears in his eyes when Keeley yielded the podium to him.

“I’ve got to tell you right now that we’re struggling with this right now,” Norwood said, his voice breaking. “I know I’ve never felt more loved than this right now.

“We all realize the sun’s going to come up tomorrow, and we’re going to start preparing this football team,” Norwood said to deafening cheers. “I’m dedicating next season to the fans of Buffalo.”

Later, Norwood was greeted by pats on the back and requests for his autograph as he made his way through City Hall.

“It’s just a sign of the heart this city really has,” he said. “It’s really appreciated.”

Despite their 20-19 Super Bowl loss to the New York Giants, the Bills returned to a hero’s welcome from a crowd, estimated by police at 25,000, that stood outside on a sunny but cold day for an hour to cheer the team upon its return from Tampa, Fla.