Regardless of one’s usual football favoritisms, tonight, we should all become Patriots fans, at least for a few hours.

You see, when the whistle blows and the ball is kicked off tonight in Super Bowl XLVI, something rare will occur.

A Natchez native will be on the sidelines.

Former Trinity Episcopal and LSU standout Stevan Ridley expects to be activated for the game and could see some playing time in the biggest football game of the year.

Whether or not Ridley sees playing time and whether or not the Pats come out on top doesn’t really matter in the grand scheme of things.

We wish him the best of luck, but we’re just thankful to see a hometown son see such early success in his NFL career.

Ridley and his family are often the first to say how blessed they’ve been. It’s nice to see their faith.

Ridley holds a unique place in our community. He has the potential to serve as an excellent role model for young men in our community for years and years to come.

But first we wish Ridley the best of luck today, and we hope he knows his extended family in the Miss-Lou will be rooting for him!