MINNEAPOLIS — What was once unthinkable became reality on Friday night under the big white top of the Metrodome: Brett Favre received a standing ovation in Minnesota.

Long considered the most dastardly of villains in Minnesota sports, Favre's decision to sign with the Vikings has instantly turned him into a quarterback viewed as the state's white knight and the team's key to a Super Bowl run.

After spurning coach Brad Childress's initial advances, Favre signed with the Vikings on Tuesday and, three days later, started the preseason game against the Kansas City Chiefs.

He looked a little rusty and went 1 for 4 for 4 yards in two series of a 17-13 victory over the Chiefs. But he was welcomed with open arms by a Vikings fan base that used to despise him like no other during his 16 seasons with the rival Green Bay Packers.

"It felt a little odd after so many years being on the other side," Favre said.

Flashes came out from the moment he jogged into the huddle for the first time and didn't stop until he was relieved by Tarvaris Jackson, who was booed, late in the first quarter.

In about 72 hours, the Twin Cities have turned into the Favre Cities. Purple Favre jerseys and T-shirts are everywhere and fans have filled the phone lines of talk radio to hail the arrival of a three-time MVP who, despite turning 40 in October, is believed by many to be the missing link between this franchise and its first Super Bowl appearance since 1977.