NEW ORLEANS — As far as quarterback Drew Brees can tell, the season of giving in New Orleans started about 14 weeks ago.

Brees and the Saints have given this city more tastes of victory than it has ever known in a single season. The fans have responded in their own way when the players drive home from games, windows down, to share in the excitement.

"I got some pralines thrown in (the car) the other day, T shirts, CDs," Brees began. "It's like Christmas. It is Christmas. ... I think it's great how excited people are. Everybody wants to be a part of this and everybody deserves to be a part of this, because so many fans have been waiting for this for a long time."

New Orleans (13-0) has long been associated with Super Bowls, but not the Saints, who are one of five teams never to appear in the NFL's marquee game.

The Dallas Cowboys (8-5), on the other hand, solidified their reputation as America's Team by winning two Super Bowls in New Orleans, where they'll meet the Saints tonight.

The Cowboys, who trail Philadelphia in the NFC East, could miss the playoffs if they don't finish strong.