The Redskins Blog

The Redskins-Harry Potter Connection

Brian Tinsman takes a look at a Redskins/pop-culture connection that I have to admit I hadn’t even considered.

In other geek news, the final installment of the Harry Potter movie franchise was released last Thursday, and celebrated the highest grossing weekend in cinematic history ($168.5 million). What’s even more amazing is how Harry Potter has never really been tied to the Washington Redskins–until now.

Here is a point-by-point argument for how Harry Potter pertains to the Redskins:

Harry Potter goes to Hogwarts:

The school of witchcraft and wizardry in the story is called Hogwarts. The model offensive line in the NFL was the Redskins Hogs. Hogwarts is seen as a place of sanctuary and success, much like the quarterback’s pocket when the Hogs were lined up protecting him.

Gryffindor’s colors are Burgundy and Gold:

For you muggles out there, Harry Potter, and practically every likable character in the Harry Potter series, belongs to the house of Gryffindor at Hogwarts. This house teaches the value of courage, bravery, loyalty, nerve and chivalry–all values that you want in a football player.

Gryffindor tower is guarded by “The Fat Lady”:

The portrait of The Fat Lady prevents unwanted entry into the Gryffindor tower, much the same as the Hogettes protect the Redskins stadium. I think I see the resemblance:

Other halls closely resemble NFC East rivals:Slytherin’s colors are green and silver, like the Eagles. Ravenclaw’s colors are blue and silver, like the Cowboys and Giants. Gryffindor isn’t openly at war with the other houses, but it’s certainly not friendly, especially out on the Quidditch pitch:

Because Redskins players and fans like Harry Potter:

Make more room on the Redskins Geek Train for rookie wide receiver Niles Paul (via his Twitter @Niles_Paul):

These Harry Potter trailers got me amped over here!less than a minute ago via Echofon Favorite Retweet ReplyNiles Paul

Niles_Paul

And the guy who calls himself the “Redskins Wizard“:

I think it’s pretty obvious that J.K. Rowling was targeting Redskins fans when she wrote Harry Potter. Okay, maybe I made that up, but Redskins fans should still be excited about other Burgundy and Gold successes this summer.