Allstate Corp. has struck a deal to become a sponsor of the Superdome, the New Orleans stadium that became a symbol for government incompetence during Hurricane Katrina but that has since reopened for the business of Saints football and other entertainment.

The Northbrook-based insurer, a leading player in an industry criticized for its response after the 2005 storm, said the enclosed dome is the only National Football League venue with which it has a national sponsorship agreement. Better than the Pink Taco Superdome rumor that was floating around I suppose.

"We have a strong college football program," Allstate spokesman Mike Siemienas explained Thursday. But the chance to be a Superdome sponsor "shows commitment not only to the residents of New Orleans but also to our employees and agencies."

Terms of the multiyear agreement, which includes signage, were not disclosed.

The deal complements other Allstate sponsorship activities in the Big Easy. Earlier this year it announced a four-year sponsorship of the Sugar Bowl, one of college football's most prestigious games.