Wilf brothers work quietly behind the scenes to help Vikings turn things around

FILE - In this Dec. 2, 2012, file photo, Minnesota Vikings owner Zygi Wilf makes his way to the field before an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers in Green Bay, Wis. He may not be Jerry Jones, but his approach is doing wonders for the Vikings as they head back to the playoffs, (AP Photo/Morry Gash, File) (The Associated Press)

While some NFL owners prefer to be out front as the faces of their franchises, Minnesota Vikings owners Zygi and Mark Wilf stay behind the scenes providing quiet support.

They are rarely quoted about the team. Instead, they shell out big bucks for new turf for the team's practice facility, help defensive end Everson Griffen after his mother suddenly died during the season and gave the team a pep talk during difficult times.

General manager Rick Spielman and coach Leslie Frazier say they are thankful to work for an ownership group that doesn't micromanage. The approach is paying off as the Vikings head to Green Bay for a playoff game on Saturday.

___

Online: http://pro32.ap.org/poll and http://twitter.com/AP_NFL