Former Texan Antonio Smith has message for Houstonians

SAN FRANCISCO, CA (KTRK) -- The Super Bowl on Sunday has the Carolina Panthers taking on the Denver Broncos.

Denver could be called Houston North with five former Texans on the team. And former Texans coach Gary Kubiak and defensive coordinator Wade Phillips are running the show.

Antonio Smith is one of those former Texans. He played five seasons in Houston and believes because of the Houston connections, the city is behind the Broncos.

"I figured H town would come in and support us," said Smith. "We don't need no Carolina fans in H-Town."

It's been a rough week for the 12-year veteran. Smith's father died earlier in the week, but he vows to play with the same joy that became his trademark in five seasons with the Texans.

"I can't hide that. It's in my DNA," he said.

And will we see his signature 'Ninja Assassin' sack celebration?

"It's going to be electrifying," said Smith. I'm going to enjoy the moment in the moment."

Greg Baily is in northern California for the Super Bowl. Watch for his reports on Eyewitness News and abc13.com.