Rams-Saints 2

This is not much of a rivalry. The Dome Patrol's biggest rival has been the Atlanta Falcons. Reasons: 1. Geographical proximity 2. Both organizations came into the league at about the same time 3. Both sucked so badly for so many years that, often times, one of the few potential W's on the schedule was the other squad Also, there is a good deal of player movement between the Falcons and the Saints. And as a Saint, one of the key ways to show your unhappiness with management is to sign a contract with the Falcons. This is what Bobby Hebert and Morten Andersen did in the final years of their careers. Unfortunately, nature may have put an end to this regional match up. Even if a location in N.O. is secured for the Black and Gold to play in, I can't imagine either the Hornets or the Saints have a long future in the Crescent City. The reality is that, in terms of population, Katrina has (and will) result(ed) in about a 35% loss. New Orleans was one of the smaller markets to begin with. I just don't see the post-Katrina version of this city being able to sustain/retain a major sports franchise. And that, ladies and gentleman, is a shame. The fixation/love affair the Deep South has with all things football is truly a part of our heritage and national culture that is simultaneously charming and uniquely American. I'm not suggesting that it's always good, but the Saints is one of the things that made New Orleans New Orleans.