Patriots won -- and so did U.S. patriotism

Without a doubt, the displays of patriotism before the Super Bowl game in New Orleans and during the halftime show were stirring and emotional as well as entertaining. It must have rubbed off on the New England Patriots, the underdogs who were supposed to fall to the mighty Rams of St. Louis.

The Rams, who have given the team's many fans in this area a season to remember, didn't show much spark until well into the fourth quarter, and even then it was too little, too late. With the score tied in the last minute, there suddenly was excitement that had been missing for the previous 59 minutes.

In the end, it was a beautiful game -- if you happened to be watching from anywhere near Boston.

Let it be said, however, that for several hours on a Sunday in early February, the Super Bowl and all its hoopla diverted our attention and showed the world that this nation has not become a captive victim of terrorism.

To the New England Patriots: Congratulations. To the St. Louis Rams: Thanks for a wonderful season.