When I left San Diego in the fall of '04, the Chargers were basically a second thought to most San Diegans. "Raiders Nation" was finally creeping back north. Of course you had your diehards, butmost people didn't gobeyond casual fanhood. I think most people felt the Bolts were more of a burden then anything else with all the stadium and ticket issues. Seems like things have changed though. Judging by thier message boards, it seems like much of OC and LA have gotten on the bandwagon. It's amazing what a few good seasons and a little uniform change will do.
My next trip out there i will gladly wear some Pats gear just to gauge popular opinions.