Drew Brees says he turned to his wife when he woke up and asked: "Did it really happen?"

The Saints and their fans awoke Monday to the realization that the once lovable losers from New Orleans were Super Bowl champions for the first time in the club's 43-year history.

The Super Bowl MVP says he relishes the idea of celebrating fans back in New Orleans and wasn't expecting anyone to go to work the day after the big win. Brees says the resilience fans showed in rebuilding after Hurricane Katrina 4 1/2 years ago has given the Saints strength.

Coach Sean Payton says when all was quiet in the team hotel around 3 a.m., he offered a prayer of thanks for his team and his experience in New Orleans.