Matt Sweet
The Sunday we’ve all been waiting for has finally arrived. 2 years since taking off his Packers jersey for the final time, Brett Favre will enter Lambeau Field this Sunday wearing purple as his 6-1 Minnesota Vikings (-1.5) visit Green Bay to take on the Packers in what promises to be a battle of the ages.
Up until recently, The Vikings have had virtually no miscues; +7 in total turnover differential, A defense leading the league in sacks, and Brett Favre limiting himself to the fewest interceptions he has given up since the 2002 season. Despite their most recent trip up vs. the Steelers, Minnesota has looked like a team possessed and poised to make a serious run at the NFC North crown. Aided by “All Day” Adrian Peterson’s unstoppable running attack, Favre has found himself thriving in the perfect storm that has presented itself to him. Unlike last season’s fast start with the Jets, Favre is poised to run the table within the division, having all ready handed the Packers one for the loss column in week 4. However, that was in the safe confines of the Metrodome.
The elements that Lambeau has to offer will surely be much different. A projected high of 44 degrees in Green Bay on Sunday may be the edge the Packers have been looking for to answer the Favre question. After coming up short to the Vikes 23-30 in week 4, Green Bay took its bye week to fine tune and prepare for the lions share of their schedule, and it has certainly paid dividends. In the two weeks since the bye week, Green Bay has taken care of business, trouncing the Lions and Browns by a combined score of 56-3. In that span, Green Bay’s weapons were on full display, with quarterback Aaron Rodgers leading the way with 604 passing yards and 5 touchdowns. The defense has also found its stride, totaling 7 sacks and forcing 4 turnovers during the two game span. To say the least, Green Bay has had its sights on Sunday.
Once again, the story will go straight to Favre. Countless variables will be considered; the Vikings recent roll, the outdoor elements, Favre’s first return Lambeau. However, it seems to me that all the pressure lies squarely on the Packers. Sure, they’ve come out of the bye taking care of business, but the lack of competition from those teams could very well leave the Packers with a false sense of confidence. Sure, they have redemption on their minds, but the Packers will have to execute perfectly in order to withstand the Minnesota machine. The key lies in Green Bay’s defensive line. Should they be able to get to Favre, and on a consistent basis disrupt his rhythm, Favre’s inception prone self should make an appearance. But, if the beginning of the season shows anything, it shows that it will take more than a few knock downs to take down the mighty Vikes.
Final score: 28 – 23 Vikings
