TRENTON, N.J. (AP) -New Jersey lawmakers feted the Super Bowl champion New York Giants, but not without a few Jersey jabs.

``We appreciate your efforts on behalf of the New Jersey Giants,'' Assembly Minority Leader Alex DeCroce told tackle Kareem McKenzie as the Assembly honored the team that carries a New York moniker but plays in East Rutherford at state-run Giants Stadium.

The Giants beat the heavily favored New England Patriots 17-14 on Sunday to win the Super Bowl, ending New England's hopes for an undefeated season.

McKenzie, a Willingboro native, received the Assembly resolution honoring the team.

``We'd like to thank you the fans in New Jersey who have supported us year in and year out,'' he said Thursday.

Assemblyman Anthony Chiappone presented the resolution.

``One day I hope to be standing here issuing a proclamation to the New Jersey Giants,'' he said.

The Assembly gave McKenzie an ovation, even those from South Jersey who prefer the Philadelphia Eagles.

``It's made all the residents of New Jersey proud, except for a few disgruntled Eagles fans,'' Chiappone said.

The Giants have played in Giants Stadium in New Jersey since 1976. The New York Jets moved there in 1984, but also retained the New York title.

Both teams are now building a new stadium near Giants Stadium.

Thursday's resolution sparked some football talk in the Assembly chamber better known for staid public policy debate.

Giants quarterback Eli Manning was selected the Super Bowl's most valuable player, but DeCroce said he would have given the award to the entire defensive line that pressured Patriots quarterback Tom Brady throughout the game.Copyright © 2005 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. The information contained in the AP News report may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without the prior written authority of The Associated Press.