This might not be a scientific survey, although the source can claim objectivity when it comes to assessing the impact of Adrian Peterson's employment in the city as a running back for the Saints.

"I'm born and raised in New Orleans," Vincent Norman said. "I follow the Saints, but I'm really a Steelers fan. I'm also a loud Steelers fan, which annoys a lot of my friends.

"I can give you a neutral view of Adrian Peterson coming to the Saints. I'm convinced he still has it. He's going to make a big difference."

Where's that idea come from? The Saints already had Mark Ingram.

"Peterson's a better back than Ingram," Norman said.

He was working the afternoon shift as the cook at Gallier's, a small restaurant and bar a block off Canal Street opposite from the French Quarter.

PATRICK REUSSE