INDIANAPOLIS -- Conservative commentator Rush Limbaugh was in Indianapolis for the Colts/Patriots game, his first trip to the city after a recent bid to be part owner of the St. Louis Rams was harpooned, in part, by Colts owner Jim Irsay's vocal opposition.

Limbaugh, a guest of NBC's Al Michaels, told 6Sports' Dave Furst that he doesn't hold ill will toward anyone, but was disappointed in the outcome.

"The only disappointing thing was that we didn't even get to the vetting process," Limbaugh said. "We didn't even get there because all those three or four fake quotes that I never said that are attributed around."

The controversy stemmed from a 2003 statement Limbaugh made in reference to Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb that some considered to be racist.

"I don't think he's been that good from the get-go. I think that we've had here a little social concern in the NFL," Limbaugh said while working as a commentator for ESPN. "I think the media has been very desirous that a black quarterback do well."

Irsay spoke publicly about his opposition to Limbaugh's involvement in the league at an NFL owners meeting in October.

"I couldn't even consider voting for him. When there are comments that have been made that are inappropriate, incendiary and insensitive … our words do damage, and it's something we don't need," Irsay said at that meeting.

Limbaugh, who steadfastly denied the comment was racist, downplayed the significance of Irsay's comments.

"It's all about the collective bargaining agreement coming up in 2011, the owners threatening to lock players out. This was the player's association guy firing a shot across the … bow, saying, 'Look guys, we're going to have a say in what this league's future is,'" Limbaugh said about the opposition to his involvement in the league. "I didn't take it personally. It was disappointing, but it is what it is."

Limbaugh said he met Irsay in 2008 before a game between the Colts and Packers -- an encounter he described as cordial.

"We were walking down the hallway of the hotel … and somebody shouted at me from behind and it was Jim. He said, 'Hey Rush, my dad loved your show. I love your show. I just wanted to say hello.'"

Limbaugh said he has no hard feeling about losing out on the Rams bid and that there will still be more opportunities ahead.