Depending on how you see Detroit's chances of winning its NFL game today, The Pour House in Madison Heights is making a safe bet or a risky gamble.
Fans who watch the Fox telecast this afternoon at the 29028 Campbell Road pub can eat and drink whatever they want for free during the game that starts at 4:25 p.m. . . . IF the Lions win.
"If the Lions win . . . we'd be giving back to our customers," says owner Rudy Jarbo.
The Green Bay Packers are 7 1/2-point favorites on their home field, though the Pour House may wind up giving away burgers, beers and more. The last time these teams met, after all, Detroit won 19-7 at Ford Field on Sept. 21.
In any event, the stunt generates publicity that could fill stools and tables. WDIV and WXYZ posted Saturday items, and ESPN now weighs in with a post by business reporter Daren Rovell:
"There's a lot of excitement around here about the Lions making the playoffs, possibly getting that first-week bye and being two weeks away from the Super Bowl," said bar owner Rudy Jarbo. "I think this gives Lions fans an incentive to watch physically, mentally, emotionally and financially."
Jarbo said the only rules in order to get food and drinks on the house are that customers have to arrive before kickoff and stay the entire game. . . .
"If the Lions win . . . we'd be giving back to our customers."
-- Alan Stamm
