The 15-Minute Rule That's Saving Marriages During the World Cup

Couples where only one person watches soccer have quietly adopted it. It's genius.

<p>Here's the deal being struck in living rooms nationwide: the non-fan gives the match fifteen minutes. Just fifteen. No phone, full attention.</p>

<p>The theory is simple — soccer doesn't sell itself in highlights. It sells itself in tension, and tension needs a quarter hour to build.</p>

<p>With matches airing at civilized North American hours this summer, the fifteen-minute audition is easier to schedule than ever.</p>

<p>The success rate is suspiciously high. Fifteen minutes becomes forty-five, and suddenly there are two jerseys in the laundry.</p>