Don't go overboard in thinking the New Orleans Saints are moving to Mississippi. But also don't underestimate the chances of an eventual Saints move.

Tuesday's breakdown of negotiations is typical in franchise stadium talks with government. Saints owner Tom Benson, who clearly doesn't want to move the team, was ready to cut a provisional deal that would keep the team in New Orleans most of this decade. The state and the area then altered a few of the provisions that caused Benson to say no and say that he had two options -- talk to Mississippi or sell the team, the least likely option.

	Saints owner Tom Benson may do his "Benson Boogie" elsewhere.

Once cooler heads return, both sides will talk at some point.

The growing danger is thoughts by the state that they are dealing from a position of strength. Louisiana is not. The growing question in Louisiana -- even though the Superdome is one of better sports facilities -- is this: Are there enough companies and well-heeled fans to support the franchise years from now? It's a legitimate concern.

The New Orleans area doesn't have enough big companies to buy the luxury boxes, club seating and high-priced tickets that will allow the Saints to compete. With ticket prices heading into the $60 and $70 levels, it's a stretch for the fans to keep buying tickets.

After all, the Saints have sold slightly more than 40,000 season tickets following what was arguably their best season. As of a month ago, not all the suites were sold and the stadium is hosting a Super Bowl this year.

The only way for Benson to make up the difference is to get ticket guarantees to assure team revenues in the middle of league. Colts owner Jim Irsay did a provisional deal a few years ago knowing that by 2005 or so the issue would have to be revisited about a new stadium.

Benson's heart is keeping the Saints in New Orleans, but he needs the help of the state to do that. He hasn't even canvassed the business community enough for support yet, but that will be necessary.

Mississippi may not be an option the league would support. Owners are comfortable with a franchise in New Orleans, but the league at some point would allow a struggling team to move to Los Angeles. The Saints could be a candidate, but that is well down the road.

So don't expect the Saints to be marching anywhere -- yet. It's still early in the process. However, Louisiana needs to work out a deal with Benson while he is thinking more of the area than of the future value of the franchise.

John Clayton is the senior NFL writer for ESPN.com.