Sure, the 20-17 loss to the Patriots in Super Bowl XXXVI still stings, even 6 1/2 years later. But those who suggest that the Pats’ upset win then, and the “Spygate” allegations that surfaced much later, created some kind of special rivalry between the teams are mistaken, according to Rams wideout Torry Holt.

“I look at it as another opponent on the schedule,” Holt said. “We’re preparing for the New England Patriots, not the rivalry with the New England Patriots. We’re (going) to see if we can can continue our winning streak and move on.

“It’ll be a challenge and it’ll be fun, and I’m sure people will talk about a rivalry and the Super Bowl game. And that’s fine. But what it all boils down to is, who executes and who makes the most plays on Sunday.”

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Notes & quotes:

*RB Steven Jackson (thigh) and DT Adam Carriker (ankle) practiced Friday for the first time this week. Each got a few snaps in the 11-on-11 segments. Coach Jim Haslett said they’re 50-50 for the game.

*WR Derek Stanley (concussion) will be on the active roster vs. the Pats, Haslett said. That means veteran Dane Looker probably will be among the inactives again.

*The Patriots have injury problems, too. RBs Sammy Morris (knee) and LaMont Jordan (calf) probably won’t play, which leaves the ball-carrying duties to a combination of Kevin Faulk, Heath Evans and rookie BenJarvus Green-Ellis.

*Rookie WR Donnie Avery did a photo shoot Friday afternoon with Alive magazine. He’ll be on the cover of a future issue.

All for now . . .