One Starkville restaurant boycotts Sunday’s big game

STARKVILLE, Miss. (WCBI) – It seems like the entire country has been gearing up for Sunday night’s big game.

However, that might not be the case in New Orleans or one local business in Starkville.

In fact, they decided to protest.

“We’re basically boycotting the NFL today. We’re showing super bowl 44 and highlights from when the Saints won the Superbowl which would probably happen if the Saints were in the Superbowl today,” said Bin 612 Owner Ty Thames.

Local Saints fans in Starkville are still grieving the “no-call” decision that cost them their spot in the Big Game.

“It was a tragedy! It was the worst no-call in football history,” said patron Doc Mike.

“Does he even have a flag? Is he missing a flag? Does he need to borrow a flag?” said patron Lane Ethridge.

“We were actually there in the Superdome, and it was crazy because it was like the air just got let out of the Superdome. Everybody was in complete shock and awe,” said Thames.

“I don’t care about the super bowl this year. I could care less about seeing the Patriots win another one. I don’t care about seeing the Rams play because my Saints should be there,” said Ethridge.

Bin 612, a restaurant and bar located in Starkville’s Cotton District, decided to throw a New Orleans themed party complete with Cajun style food.

“Jambalaya and oysters and oyster bisque and all those things,” said Thames.

Music.

“I’ve got some Fats Domino, some Harry Connick Jr., a lot of those New Orleans piano players– I’m bringing up some of their music to rock out tonight,” said musical guest Wyly Bigger.

And of course, the New Orleans Saints.

“Oh no, the Superbowl is not on here. Only the Saints from when they won is what we’ll be watching,” said Bin 612 waitress Paige Foster.

In fact, the party has many patrons feeling overly optimistic– almost as if they’ve stepped back in time.

(reporter: Who do you want to win tonight?)

“Well, I really hope the saints pull it out,” said Thames.

“I can’t believe the commissioner stepped in like that and reversed the call and the Saints are playing for the Superbowl today! We’re gonna win,” said Doc Mike.

It seems like everyone in attendance was perfectly fine with the wishful thinking.

“I think it’s pretty cool. It made me laugh when I heard they were doing it, but it’s cool. It’s bringing a lot of people together, Saints fans alike, just to hang out and relive
the glory days,” said Bigger.

“I gotta go watch the game! Gotta watch Drew throw some touchdowns!” said Doc Mike.

Owners of Bin 612 say tonight wasn’t a serious protest.

Their goal was to just have fun and show support for their favorite team.