re: Shouldn't Saints fans root for ATL like LSU fans for the SEC?

Not the same at all.

The pro level doesn't have the same local connection as college. I'm saying overall.

At the college level and even below it is just natural to root for your closest brethren. Just like high school.. My team doesn't win and I'm in the south I still want the southern team to take the ship. Or if it's Louisiana vs Texas.. Give me Louisiana.. It's just a prideful mentality based mainly upon region.. and it's a mutual respect factor.

however in the Pros these guys are assembled from all over.. and there is absolutely no reason to respect anything about the failcons.