Economists will continue to debate the economic impact of Super Bowls as long as cities compete to host the game.

On one point, however, there should be agreement: Hosting the game provides valuable exposure for host cities, especially for those that take full advantage of the opportunity to market themselves as high-quality destinations for tourists, convention planners, job seekers and expanding businesses.

The 2018 Super Bowl will give the Twin Cities a chance to show off the region's high quality of life, vibrant business community, top-notch arts and entertainment options, and unique natural resources. Yes, we realize the game will be played in February, but with any meteorological luck, Minnesotans will be able to show attendees and viewers that winter can be embraced rather than endured.

To its credit, Philadelphia-based Rockport Analytics on Tuesday provided a relatively modest projection of $338 million in economic impact for the Twin Cities, with estimated total visitor spending of $284 million. For years, booster groups have touted exaggerated economic-impact numbers to justify public spending on stadiums and Super Bowls.

Rockport stands out as a more realistic forecaster, because it acknowledges factors such as "displaced tourism" — visits and spending that would have occurred without a Super Bowl taking over a marketplace. The firm pegged that number at $68 million for the Twin Cities and subtracted that amount from its initial estimate.

Rockport also excludes "softer benefits" such as media exposure, which makes its economic-impact projection more believable. However, the intangible value of that kind of exposure should not be disregarded in a region that competes with the likes of Seattle, Denver, Dallas, Indianapolis and other markets for major events and economic development. This year's Super Bowl had a TV audience of more than 100 million worldwide, and each year media coverage of events during the week leading up to the games expands exposure for the host region.

It's appropriate to discuss the strengths and weaknesses of economic-impact studies, including Rockport's. But direct impact aside, it's also important for Minnesotans to acknowledge that putting on a well-run event will create intangible benefits for years to come.