Penn State fans' deafening cheers rocked Beaver Stadium Saturday, rallying the team to an exhilarating 40-7 victory over Nebraska. But the unsportsmanlike conduct of a few has dampened what should be a joyous triumph.

To the majority of fans whose excitement and support gave the players momentum on the field, thank you. Chants of "We are Penn State" began almost an hour before kick-off. The riotous cheers shook the stadium and -- as Nebraska Coach Frank Solich attested -- the nerves of the Huskers, as Penn State's defense took the field.

The players felt the crowd's excitement, and it helped drive the team to victory. As defensive end Anthony Adams said of the fans, "They did good today."

But there also were a few fans who didn't. Some sported shirts and signs with profanity. Others harassed and heckled Nebraska fans, causing some to leave the game. Both brought shame to the team, the rest of the fans and the university.

Penn State has been bombarded with e-mail, letters and calls from angry fans. Once-proud Penn Staters said they were embarrassed by some whose behavior went beyond rowdiness to rudeness. Several Web sites and e-mail lists got posts condemning the boorish conduct of some local fans.

To the small number of those whose ill-mannered behavior has taken focus away from the thrilling victory, we hope this serves as a lesson of what a good fan is. A good fan arrives at Beaver Stadium early, cheering on the team as it warms up and loud enough for the players to hear the support from the locker room. A good fan stays with the team throughout the game, throughout the ups and downs. A good fan is there to celebrate when the final buzzer sounds. And a good fan shows the same sportsmanlike conduct in the stands that the players exude on the field. A good fan brings no shame.

We hope the momentum of Saturday's game carries over to this week's bout against Louisiana Tech. Let Beaver Stadium again be filled to capacity -- with good fans.