ESPN’s broadcast of the Sugar Bowl on Thursday opened with a message from President Joe Biden to New Orleans and those impacted by the terrorist attack on Bourbon Street on New Year’s Eve.

“Today all of America stands with the people of New Orleans,” he said. “We pray for all those killed and injured in yesterday’s attack. We’re grateful to the brave first responders who raced to save lives.

“I’m glad the game is back on, but I’m not surprised because the spirit of New Orleans can never be kept down. That’s also true of the spirit of America. We just have to remember who we are. We’re the United State of America. There’s nothing beyond our capacity if we do it together.

“God bless New Orleans. God protect our troops.”

Flags are at half-staff outside the Superdome and at nearby state buildings as fans arrive a day later than scheduled for a College Football Playoff quarterfinal game between the Irish and Bulldogs at the Sugar Bowl.

The game was delayed by an attack in the nearby French Quarter that killed 14 and injured dozens more. Numerous security officers around the stadium were handling dogs trained to sniff for explosive devices. While many traveling fans extended their stay to attend the game, the postponement meant many would not be able to attend.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.