Brett Favre: The Legend, The Story, and The End

I was nine years old, sitting on the floor of our living room in the home I grew up in as a young child. Consumed by our 32" tube television, along with the rest of my family, I didn't quite understand the importance of the moment at the time, but simply growing up in the state of Wisconsin was enough. On my back, a Starter youth green #4 jersey. The date was January 26th, 1997, which in the National Football League it was a very special time of the year. The occasion, Super Bowl XXXI, and what is my fondest memory of a man who once played quarterback for my beloved Green Bay Packers, and also the beginning of a relationship with a player that very few fans of the Green and Gold could have ever imagined. That relationship lasted sixteen magical years, and when you combine that with the time he spent as a member of the New York Jets and Minnesota Vikings, it leaves only five years in which he has not been a part of my life. It's still difficult to reflect on what has happened in my years following professional, and specifically, Packer football. At the age of twenty-three, I've already seen the most historic franchise in the NFL win seven division championships, appear in four NFC Championship games, and make two Super Bowl appearances, winning one World Championship. Each of those moments provided by and attached to one man, Brett Lorenzo Favre.

Let me attempt to paint an accurate picture. My childhood was spent growing up in a region of Wisconsin referred to as the Fox Valley (resided in the city of Neenah), a mere 35-minute drive north to Green Bay on U.S. Highway 41 . Although the popularity of the Green Bay Packers encompasses anyone who lives within the Wisconsin borders, to those who grew up so close to or in the city of Green Bay, there's a different level of admiration and gratefulness to this franchise. My grandparents guided me through the Packers Hall of Fame on multiple occasions before I was ten years old. Several August evenings were spent watching training camp on the sidewalk of Oneida St. through a chain-link fence (spectator viewing has since been upgraded). And even on some occasions, after heavy snowfall, making a trip up to Lambeau Field to assist in snow removal. However, not a single sporting experience can compare to game day atmosphere at Lambeau, and the success the organization had while Favre was with the team has only added to the mystique of a such a unique professional sports team, albeit one in the most popular sport in the United States.

There have been many players and coaches that came and went during Favre's time in Green Bay. Current Cleveland Browns General Manager Mike Holmgren is the most memorable, but my recollection better recalls moments with Mike Sherman and Mike McCarthy. Until typing this, I never realized that all three men had a first name of "Mike". Additionally, some fans likely still ridicule the hire of Ray Rhodes in 1998, resulting in a very mediocre 8-8 season. Favre was able to play with Packer greats like Reggie White, Leroy Butler, and Sterling Sharpe, just to name a few. At quarterback, he spent training camps with Mark Brunell, Kurt Warner, Matt Hasselbeck, and Aaron Brooks (remember him?). He even made it on the cover of Madden '09, although I remember him more for being on the cover of Nintendo's NFL Quarterback Club (just an awful game).

Favre's imprint left on the NFL is already astonishing, and he will be remembered as one of the all-time great players to ever don an NFL uniform. However, there is still sour taste that remains in the mouths of Packer fans, and it's not from expired bratwurst. It's tough to put a finger on where or why the sour taste exactly began, but its presence cannot be ignored. But finally, as today marks the beginning of the 2010 NFL season, that sour taste is beginning to fade.

"Fool me once, shame on... shame on you. Fool me... you can't get fooled again." - the 43rd President of the United States, George W. Bush

On December 31st, 2006, the Green Bay Packers defeated the Chicago Bears 26-7 on Sunday Night Football. For the entire 2006 season, there had already been heavy speculation that Favre would retire after the Packers' final game. The man became so entrenched with emotion that he broke down into tears in a postgame interview with Andrea Kraemer. This left most of Packer Nation to believe that Favre already had one foot out the door, and I the majority assumed the legend would finally call it quits. Thus began what we'll refer to as simply "Waiting", where no matter what happens in the world [of sports], we need to know what Brett Favre is doing, and how he feels doing it.

The 2007 off-season was a walk-in-the-park compared to off-seasons to come. Favre had his customary ankle surgery, and made an "early" announcement in March noting that he would be returning for the 2007 season. This season would surely be his swan song, the team was the most "talented" (per Favre in 2006), and they looked prime to make the playoffs, giving Favre one last opportunity leave the game on top. Fans in Green Bay were stirring with excitement.

In 2007, Favre posted his best numbers in three years, and also recorded his highest completion percentage (66.5%) as a member of the Green Bay Packers. The Packers finished the season with a 13-3 record, and earned the 2nd seed in the NFC. This gave Favre the chance to possibly play all playoff games at home, where if a moment in which the season came to an end, at least he would be in front of the fans that loved him so much. However, it seemed as if the story had already been written. Favre would guide the Packers to one last Super Bowl where they would undoubtedly take on the undefeated New England Patriots in a game with more story lines than Constantine. An easy snow-covered divisional win over Seattle gave the Packers an NFC Championship matchup against the New York Giants. Surely Green Bay would be the favored squad, but unfortunately fans were mistaken by the team of destiny, and Favre proved again that he makes questionable decision in pressure situation (more on that later). As it turned out, the Giants were truly destined to win it all, taking down the Patriots in a game that was so damn entertaining, even Packer fans temporarily forgot about their recent agonizing defeat.

Now a bit more prepared, fans in Green Bay again entered the period known as "Waiting". Sensing that it was only a matter of time, fans spent about a month speculating on "will he, or won't he" discussions before Favre declared that he would be making a formal announcement on March 4th, 2008. As a college student, I was forced into class for a portion of the live press conference. I was able to make it back to see the player I adored so much, and for so long, yet again reduced to tears, and sounding a lot like a man who was no longer mentally invested in playing such a mentally rigorous sport. My most vivid memory that remains is how Favre repeatedly mentioned that the retirement was his decision, and that the Green Bay Packers organization did not push him in any direction. Favre was decisive, and his declaration seemed final. Oh, to be so naive...

Summers are quite beautiful in Northeast Wisconsin, and the summer of 2008 was no different. Sure, Favre had yet to sign those oh-so-important retirement papers, and fans certainly were not 100% sold on his retirement, but the hysteria caused by the press conference had since died down, allowing some fans to come to terms with "the end". But in midsummer, just as those across the nation were getting ready to celebrate America's Birthday, Favre had to steal the spotlight again. Yes, Favre stole the spotlight from America, because on July 2nd a report surfaced that he was considering a return to the team. General Manager Ted Thompson informed Favre he would not simply be released, and that the organization now had a commitment to their former 1st-round quarterback selection from Cal, which caused an indescribable uproar throughout the entire state. Seeking an appropriate way to address those who wanted to hear the words come from the horse's mouth, naturally Favre selected On the Record with Greta Van Susteren on the Fox News Channel (as opposed to a relevant media medium). A mere four months later, the same man who was committed to retiring by no fault of the Green Bay Packers, was not fully committed, and felt pressured by the Packers to make a decision before the NFL Draft. Here comes that sour taste.

Officially, on July 15th, 2008, Favre said he was returning to the NFL. Fine. Making a decision to step away from the only game you have ever known has to be difficult, as I am not able to relate. Reports began to surface about Favre changing teams; the New York Jets and Tampa Bay Buccaneers needing in the most obvious need of a quarterback. Then came speculation that the Minnesota Vikings were involved, due to former Packers Offensive Assistant (and Wisconsin Badger) Darrell Bevell and Favre being good friends, and Bevell now the Quarterbacks Coach with the Vikings. The Packers sought tampering charges, but Commissioner Roger Goodell ruled no such thing. After causing yet another ruckus by arriving in Green Bay at the beginning of training camp, Favre was shipped off to the New York Jets in exchange for a 4th round draft pick, but with stipulations that would ensure the Jets would not flip him back in a trade to the Vikings. At long last, it was the end of an era in Green Bay, and the atmosphere surrounding the team felt, for lack of a better term, weird.

"When you're a Jet, you're a Jet all the way." Or at least halfway.

To be frank, and I may have been in the minority, but I felt incredibly indifferent to Favre and his new team. The Jets were in the AFC, and were not in a position to contend in 2008. The Packers would not encounter Favre unless it was in the Super Bowl, and those chances were slim. As the Packers struggled to close out games early in the season, my attention shifted to baseball, where the Milwaukee Brewers were busy ending their 26-year playoff drought. Favre and Jets got off to a hot start, but fizzled late, missing the playoffs in spectacular fashion as their gunslinging quarterback tried to tough it out with a bum throwing shoulder. Favre certainly had to be leaning towards complete retirement this time around, his torn muscle should be enough to deter him this time.

On February 11th, 2009, Favre informed the Jets about his intentions to retire. Never formally addressing his retirement, the Jets officially released Favre from the team on April 28th, and it appeared as if the final chapter of his career had been written.

Brett Favre, Brett Favre, Brett Favre, and the Minnesota Vikings

Let me first preface this by informing readers that for my undergraduate degree, I attended the University of Minnesota. It truly is a great post-secondary institution, and I will continue to endorse my alma mater. The unfortunate part is that it is located in the Twin Cities, which allowed me to experience first-hand the series of events that took place next...

We all knew what Favre wanted, he was simply vying his time to see if an opportunity to play for the Minnesota Vikings would present itself. The most interesting aspect of this already dicey situation, was that the Vikings seemed to want Favre more than he wanted to play there. The Packers on the other hand, simply did not want to see their legend go to their most intense division rival, but knew they no longer could stop that from happening. I was already preparing for the worst. Having lived in Minneapolis for four years already, I observed and endured the hatred Vikings fans have towards Packer fans. On local sports radio station KFAN 1130, it was commonplace to hate on everything Wisconsin, including yours truly, Brett Favre. However, once speculation began that Favre to the Vikings had legs, the fanbase in Minnesota had no problem flipping the switch, ignoring years of disdain due to absolute desperation for a championship.

With most of the fans in Green Bay confident in the abilities of their new quarterback, Favre went ahead an announced his retirement again on July 28th, 2009. Most who were following the situation closely assumed he was forced into this decision based on his shoulder. In a predictable turn of events, on August 18th, Favre went public with his decision of returning to professional football, and quickly signed a contract with the Minnesota Vikings that day. This is a day that will always stick out in my memory, because I remember walking through Downtown Minneapolis feeling genuinely sad for those reveling in news. The Favre acquisition captivated the entire state (unlike in New York), and purple #4 Jerseys were flying off the racks. I simply did not understand how a team that despised a player for sixteen seasons could change allegiances so quickly. It was complete exultation, and my mouth suddenly tasted as if it were chock full of Warheads (come on, you remember).

To understand this situation completely, one must take a look at the Minnesota Vikings organization. The Vikings are in desperate need of new stadium, and simply renaming the turf at the Metrodome as Mall of America Field is just not going to cut it. The Metrodome is horribly out-of-date, even for dome standards, and in previous seasons (with the recent economic downturn), the Vikings were in danger of television blackout each week before the networks usually bought out a remainder of the tickets. On top of all this, there isn't enough agreement in the Minnesota State House, which voted against the new Vikings Stadium on May 5th, 2010, citing an increase in taxes would be difficult given the increase needed to support the construction of the recently built Target Field. How did they not see this coming? In 2009, your city has two major professional sports teams that played their home games in an old, run-down stadium. People in Minnesota are definitely "Minnesota nice," just not "Minnesota smart." Now, with the Vikings lease ending in 2011, there is immense pressure to figure out a solution for to build new stadium. Otherwise come 2012, say hello to the NFL's newest relocated team Los Angeles Vikings.

Back to 2009, Favre immediately made the Minnesota Vikings a legitimate Super Bowl contender. His season got off to an unbelievable start, as he had no problem adjusting to his new surroundings. His success was difficult to digest, as Favre talk was ad nauseum, which I had no problem understanding. The two marquee match-ups against the Packers came early in the season, and a sieve of an offensive line in addition to Favre's spectacular play led to victories in both games. The Vikings victory at Lambeau was particularly difficult to swallow, but I was encouraged to hear the ravenous boos coming from the fans as Favre took the field. His storybook performance made headlines on a weekly basis, as he recorded the best statistical season of his career. But other than the two losses Green Bay endured to Minnesota, I was largely unaffected by Favre's success, there was only one wish I had while watching Favre last season...

Without delving into Favre's failures with the Packers too deep, I will quickly remind readers of the 2004 divisional game against the Philadelphia Eagles, where in overtime, Favre lofted a prayer in the direction of Antonio Freeman only to be intercepted by Brian Dawkins, setting up an easy game-winning field goal. Or maybe you remember in 2002, when the Packers were also in a divisional game against the St. Louis Rams, and Favre threw five interceptions and virtually handed over the game. And lastly, the NFC Championship game against the Giants in 2008, when Corey Webster followed in Dawkins footsteps, intercepting the all-time great in overtime, resulting in another Packers playoff loss by field goal. What does each of these performances represent? They represent the feeling, the hope, and the overall expectation that he would do the same to the Minnesota Vikings in a similar situation. How quickly we forget why Favre has failed to reach a Super Bowl since 1997, and he has played on some more than capable teams.

Fast forward, the date is now January 24th, 2010. The Vikings are set to travel down to the Superdome to play the New Orleans Saints for the NFC Championship, and Favre is fresh off a stellar performance against a tough Dallas Cowboys team in a playoff game a week earlier. To be honest, I was nervous. The only thing better than Favre losing this game, would be losing the Super Bowl, but I didn't want to take that chance. It's not that I didn't want Favre to win another championship. In fact, if he had done so the previous year with the Jets, it would not have been difficult to swallow. I, however, despise the Vikings, and would not have taken Favre hoisting the Lombardi Trophy for that organization very well. So as the Vikings played the Saints, I was hoping for the worst. More than ever, I found myself hoping Favre would get sacked, throw interceptions, and make ill-advised mistakes. As a team, the Vikings were not able to take advantage of the Saints lackluster effort, turning the ball over a total of five times. But as the end of the game neared, the Vikings were threatening to win the game and advance to a Super Bowl by virtue of a field goal (ironic), and Favre was moving them into position. A costly coaching error by Head Coach Brad Childress (twelve men in the huddle) put the Vikings in a passing situation on 3rd & 15 with on the Saint's 38 yard-line. No description for what followed is needed.

2010, a Season to Forget

So after one more season of ultimate disappointment, we now arrive at September 9th, 2010. Now it was Vikings fans that had to endure retirement talk for months, and never-ending speculation with the question, "When will Brett make his decision?" Showing what little continuity the team has under Childress, it took Jared Allen, Steven Hutchinson, and Ryan Longwell flying down to Mississippi to convince the legend to come back for one more go at it. The Vikings are putting their chips "all-in" this season, but due to injuries, players leaving, and Favre's physical health not being 100%, this season will inevitably bring an end to Favre's career. Other than the NFC Championship, everything went right for the Minnesota Vikings in 2009, and they still were not able obtain that first World Championship. When a few things go wrong in 2010, the wheels will fall off, and it will spell the end of a cowardly and tainted attempt to win a championship in Minnesota.

At this time, I will formally bid you farewell #4. Your image has been drastically changed over the past few years in the eyes of the only team and fanbase that gave you a chance. In time, you will come back to Green Bay so we can recognize all that you did in your time here as a player. Hey, maybe Grove High School will take you on as Quarterbacks coach to ease those retirement blues.

Oh and by the way, have you heard of Aaron Rodgers?

Brewers: Five Reasons to Stay Interested in 2010

With September looming, the focus of professional sports traditionally shifts from baseball to to football. Those Yankees/Rays highlights that were once the lead story on SportsCenter have now been pushed to the back-burner to make room for Rachel Nichols' most recent "breaking news" outside of Viking headquarters in Winter Park. In Wisconsin, it's no different, whether the Milwaukee Brewers are relevant or not, the Green Bay Packers take precedence. The two-fisted slobbers that typically roam Miller Park grab their cheeseheads and travel north to Lambeau.

However, because Fox Sports Wisconsin continues to air live Brewers telecasts, those with little better to do continue to watch. The Milwaukee Brewers are a franchise who appear to have ownership making moves to have the team succeed, but as with any small market (the Brewers are the smallest in MLB), these things take time, and competing for a pennant each season is not realistic. So, with the team currently owning a 57-64 record (12 games out of first place in the NL Central), fans are now looking at the 2011 season to revive optimism toward the team. For the diehards down in the Cream City, I give you five reasons that the remainder of the 2010 season can still grab your interest.

1. Outfielder and Recent call-up Lorenzo Cain

Those of you unfamiliar with Cain should really tune in to watch this kid play. The Brewers organization appears to have given Cain the reigns to find a long-term place in the outfield in Milwaukee. With CF Carlos Gomez still on the DL dealing with a concussion after being plunked on the head, and former 2010 Brewer Jim Edmonds being shipped off to Cincinnati to compete for a spot in the playoffs, Cain falls into a great situation.

Drafted in the 17th round in 2004, Cain has finally figured it out at the plate, posting a combined .317 average with both AA affiliate Huntsville Stars and AAA affiliate Nashville Sounds earlier this season. He has great athleticism, and a great attitude. In 12 games at the major league level, he has already posted a .345 average, a major upgrade over Carlos Gomez simply because it appears Cain understands how to take a walk.

In Spring Training in 2011, look for there to be somewhat of an open competition between Cain and Gomez for the CF position going into the season, as the Brewers try to salvage the only piece they received from the Minnesota Twins in the J.J. Hardy trade.

2. The Mat Gamel Conundrum/September Roster Expansion

This one goes a little bit without saying, however there stands to be a few guys to keep an eye on next month when rosters expand across Major League Baseball. One name those in Milwaukee are already quite familiar with is Mat Gamel. Once thought to be in position to compete for a starting job at third base with the Brewers, Gamel has not been able to shake nagging injuries long enough to establish himself (Gamel was ruled out in Spring Training this season with a shoulder injury).

Prior to the season, current 3B Casey McGehee appeared to be just warming his seat, but his numbers this season (.288 avg., 19 HRs, 77 RBIs) have solidified his spot a third base for the immediate future. Meanwhile, Gamel has seen time recently at AAA Nashville playing both first base and right field. Wait, don't we have players already under contract at those positions? Assuming Prince Fielder is on his way out of town after 2011 (or possibly earlier), first base will be open. Corey Hart (the recent recipient of a 3-year/$26.5 million extension) is a fairly shaky outfielder and could be shifted to first base to make room for Gamel specifically in RF.

Simply put, observing how the Brewers use Gamel in September will be interesting and informative in terms of sorting out the future and post-Prince Fielder era.

Other possible call-ups to keep an eye on: 2B Brett Lawrie (AA Huntsville), SP Amaury Rivas (AA Huntsville), IF Eric Farris (AAA Nashville), SP Joshua Butler (AAA Nashville).

3. Jeremy Jeffress and his fight against a lifetime ban from professional baseball

The once highly touted first round draft pick by the Milwaukee Brewers in 2006, pitcher Jeremy Jeffress now sits only one failed drug test from being banned from professional baseball, for life. Those unfamiliar with Jeffress might jump to the conclusion of thinking that this kid has a serious problem with using Performance Enhancing Drugs (PEDs). Before you continue with that thought, Jeffress has never used PEDs. The troublesome drug of choice for the young man out of South Boston, Virginia has been marijuana. Jeffress has twice tested positive for THC, resulting in a 50-game suspension back in 2007, and again tested positive midway through 2009 which knowingly resulted in an increase to a 100-game suspension.

Despite all of this, the right-hander (who has a fastball that touches 100 mph) has made a comeback and has put himself in line for a possible call-up to the Brewers by the end of this season. He sought treatment for drug addiction and appears to have his life straightened out, and I'm assuming would rather not ruin his career by slipping up once again. He should have plenty of money to spend on all the pot he wants after he retires. In all seriousness, Jeffress projects to be a "closer in-waiting" and will be groomed for a spot in the bullpen. I've always been personally excited about Jeffress, and his potential 2010 major-league debut would be a huge story in Milwaukee. Stay tuned.

4. The outlook for Manager Ken Macha, and General Manager Doug Melvin

At this point, most Brewers fans have given up on the idea that the team has anything to play for, and although that may be true, the team knows that the last month and a half could affect the positions of the two men in at the helm of team decision-making. GM Doug Melvin has a strong working relationship with team owner Mark Attanasio, and in my opinion, hasn't done a poor job of assembling the current team. Look for Melvin to still be in Milwaukee next season.

On the other hand, many in Wisconsin are still not sold on Manager Ken Macha being the influence that will make this team a consistent contender. Macha is mild-mannered, and rarely wears his emotions on his sleeve. The Wisconsin populous typically endear to the type of coach who is tough and vocal (the reason Milwaukee Bucks Head Coach Scott Skiles gained such quick approval). On top of all this, the public perception is that Macha cannot relate to the players very well, and doesn't have complete control over the team.

I believe the last 41 games this season are vitally important to Macha's future, and Attanasio would like to see a little more emotion emitted from him. An interesting on going story line has been Prince Fielder and Rickie Weeks leading the league in Hit-by-Pitch (HBP) numbers with twenty each. Macha has made a point of being upset that the Brewers players have been thrown at exceedingly more than any other team in baseball, and could use these last games to show some of that infuriation. If Macha were to be ejected for defending his players after being plunked, or even mix things up with some of the teams that have made a point of "failing" to pitch inside to Weeks and Fielder, I think his approval would go up not only with the Brewers fans, but also inside the clubhouse. With all that being said, do not be surprised if there is a change at manager in Milwaukee after the 2010 season.

5. Total attendance failing to reach 3,000,000+ for first time since 2007

Although it is not much of a story, it is quite amazing the Milwaukee Brewers, who sit 30th out of 30 teams in terms of media market size across Major League Baseball, have been able to surpass three million in total attendance at Miller Park for the last two years. Even in 2010, the Brewers faithful have helped the Brewers pull in over two million fans already (with 22 home games left), and they currently rank 11th in all of baseball, despite being all but removed from playoff contention. To put it into perspective, the Minnesota Twins, who have a brand new stadium (Target Field), and are currently in first place in the AL Central, only rank 6th and have drawn barely 200,000 more fans this season. To me, the Brewers attendance numbers represent the rebirth of a fanbase that enjoys the idea of rooting on a competitive team.

The Brewers have also done a fantastic job rebranding themselves, incorporating the old "ball in glove" logo and appealing to a younger generation of fans.Tailgating is what makes going to Miller Park such a special experience, something that few ballparks across Major League Baseball offer. Because tailgating is always an option, fans will continue to show up despite the team's performance. The social aspect that goes along with tailgating is unparalleled, and something all baseball fans need to experience. If nothing more, this is something to be proud of Brew Crew fans, and in broader perspective, Wisconsin.

NFC North: A Comprehensive Preview

The 2010 NFL season certainly should bring major elements of surprise, and some of those elements should be major story-lines in the NFC North alone. Each of the four teams have some questions that need to be answered. Can the new acquisitions in Chicago return the Bears to the playoffs? Can Matthew Stafford take a step forward and help the Lions show positive team progression in Detroit? Is the performance and standard set by Dom Capers first year in Green Bay with the 3-4 defense just a mirage? And simply, what the hell is Brett Favre going to do?

The NFC North has quickly become one of the more intriguing divisions in the NFL, and 2010 should play out similar to the 2009 season, but there have been enough changes to shake things up a bit. Three teams appear to have things moving forward, whereas one team has taken a step back. In the Twin Cities, there stands to be more drama than if Mel Gibson showed up at on Oksana Grigorieva's doorstep, with every Vikings fans waiting on #4's next move. Elsewhere, teams are just trying to make it through the preseason healthy, most notably avoiding any player representation on the cover of Madden '11 (sorry, Drew Brees).

Due to the NFL scheduling formula, this season each team in the NFC North will have eight games on their schedules against each team from the NFC East and AFC East divisions. Both the AFC East and NFC East have very strong teams with high expectations (not named Buffalo), which will make it difficult for any team in the NFC North to finish with an exceptional record.

So without further adieu, here is your NFC North Preview for the 2010 NFL season.

1. Green Bay Packers

2010 Prediction: 12-4 (4-2 vs. NFC North)

For the first time in two seasons, it is difficult to find reasons that Green Bay will not finish on top of the NFC North. Aaron Rodgers, despite being sacked 50 times (41 in the first nine games), still finished with 30 TDs, 7 INTs and a quarterback rating of 103.2. For fantasy players, take note that Rodgers led the NFL in rushing at the QB position last season, gaining 316 yards and rushing for 5 TDs. Once solidifying the offensive line with the comeback of RT Mark Tauscher (the deep fried cheese curd himself), and with the addition of the 1st round draft pick (and seemingly perfect Packer) LG/LT Bryan Bulaga out of Iowa, the Packers have shown more inclination to shore up their biggest weakness than BP has in trying to seal the oil leak in the gulf. Additionally, TE Jermichael Finley took a major step forward in 2009, most notably in the NFC divisional round game against the Arizona Cardinals when he registered 6 rec. and 159 yards (the 2nd most yards by a TE in the playoffs). He figures to be a prominent contributor to the passing attack, joining an already strong receiving corps that includes WRs Driver, Jennings, Nelson, and Jones. RB Ryan Grant will again be a steady presence who seems to have his production overlooked each season, but is a huge reason the offense is so productive. His 3,412 yards over the past three seasons are only second to Vikings RB Adrian Peterson during that stretch.

Defensive Coordinator Dom Capers surprised even the most optimistic Packer fans when he improved their total defense ranking from 20th to 2nd in the NFL in just one season. A major reason, of course, was because the personnel the Packers had was already suited for 3-4 defense which debuted last season. GM Ted Thompson pulled the trigger in the 2009 draft by adding two rookies that made significant impacts last season in DT B.J. Raji, and LB Clay Matthews. While Raji looked and played like a rookie at times last season, Matthews adjusted quickly and became a force recording 10 sacks, despite not starting the first four games. He is currently battling a hamstring injury, but should be ready for the regular season. Fan favorite DT Johnny Jolly will have to miss the 2010 season, but at this time we'll just assume Commissioner Goodell as yet to try that Texas Tea (codeine for those unfamiliar), and should see his suspension of "indefinitely" reduced once that occurs. Rookie DE Mike Neal (Purdue), and 2007 1st-round draft pick DT Justin Harrell will battle for Jolly's playing time. The last remaining large question mark is at strong safety, where former starter Atari Bigby forgot he needed ankle surgery at the beginning of training camp, leaving that void to be filled by rookie SS Morgan Burnett out of Georgia Tech. Burnett has already shown great ball-hawking ability, but is still raw, and may be exploited by the divisions strong QB play. On a side note, NFL defensive player of the year Charles Woodson will be back, and has had some unique off-season training habits.

Quickly touching upon Special Teams, coordinator Shawn Slocum is in his 2nd season at the helm and that alone should improve their performance. K Mason Crosby needs to show more accuracy in 2010, only making 46% (6/13) of his FGs beyond 40 yards. At Punter, there is a "fierce" competition between lovable ginger Tim Masthay and former Australian Rules Football player Chris Bryan, which sadly has received more media attention then I can handle at this point. Masthay appears to have the upper hand early on, but those Aussie Rules guys are tough. Lastly, KR/PR/S Will Blackmon returns from injury to boost an obsolete return game, because surprisingly enough in Green Bay expectations still have not been lowered since Desmond Howard's 1996 season.

There is every reason to believe this team will compete for a world championship this season. LB Nick Barnett has even taken it as far by saying that this season's motto in Green Bay is "Superbowl or die" on NFL Network. Fans in Green Bay already are familiar with his "Samurai Sword" celebration, so we can only assume he will go ahead and commit Seppuku if a fourth Lombardi Trophy is not snatched in Dallas come February.

2. Minnesota Vikings

2010 Predicition: 10-6 (4-2 vs. NFC North)

Before we begin, I will preface this prediction by stating that this result will only hold true if the legend himself returns to Mall of America Field at the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome (what?) come September. Not ruled out could be an even later return for #4 to the Vikings at some point this season. Vikings Kicker and Favre's best friend on the team Ryan Longwell has stated that it's his ankle that is the problem right now, and it might take longer for him to get up to game speed. Assuming he does return, he clearly showed last year (his best statistical season) that he still has what it takes to play at a high level. He limited his gunslings to seven, and posted a QB rating of 107.2. His major weapons remain the same as well, although they have not shown a willingness to participate in one of NFL's oldest team bonding traditions, training camp. WR Sidney Rice put his footprint on the NFL last season becoming the Vikings #1 option at receiver, but is battling a hip injury that could linger throughout the season. NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year KR/WR Percy Harvin hasn't shown up in Mankato since July 31st, citing his habitual migraines and the recent death of his grandmother. Per his migraines, I offer up this solution; medicinal marijuana. Harvin tested positive for THC before the 2009 NFL combine, and I have a pretty good feeling his migraines would subside with a little mary jane. RB Adrian Peterson will be dominant again, but fans in the land of 10,000 lakes are hoping his fumblitis is a thing of the past (6 fumbles lost in 2009). Maybe overshadowed could be the loss of productive 3rd down RB Chester Taylor, his receiving ability will not be matched, and he will replaced by rookie RB Toby Gerhart (Stanford), who is still trying win over some of his teammates. The offensive line should be OK, RT Phil Loadholt looks to take another step forward, while it looks like LT Bryant McKinnie appears to be taking steps back, and maybe still feels he's too good for the Pro Bowl. Lastly on the offensive side, TE Visanthe Shiancoe had his best season in 2010, having Bubba Franks-like production with Favre under center, but he stands to lose the most of Brett doesn't return, sliding back into fantasy irrelevance.

On the defensive side of the ball, the Vikings will again be a force. Notable All-Pros DE Jared Allen and DT Kevin Williams lead what could be the best defensive line in the NFL. Allen has registered an astonishing 44.5 sacks over the last three seasons, but in 2009, 7.5 of his 14.5 sacks came against the Packers in the first half of the season. DE Ray Edwards became a big time player with his performance against the Cowboys in the playoffs registering 3 sacks. Play at Linebacker will continue to be consistent as well, with Chad Greenway, Ben Leber, and E.J. Henderson all returning. Henderson's story is quite remarkable, as you can recall, Henderson broke his femur in an ugly injury last season. Some felt the injury might be career-threatening, but he is on pace to play the first preseason game against St. Louis. The biggest question with Henderson has always been health, but his skill-set and strength are phenomenal. The secondary is where the first questions arise for the Vikings defense. There is a lot of game experience, but little elite talent. CB Antoine Winfield remains the best tackling defensive backs in the NFL, but is starting to slow down a bit in coverage, which could explain why the team drafted rookie CB Chis Cook (Virginia). 2nd-year CB Asher Allen is slated to start opposite Winfield, but don't be surprised if new acquisition CB Lito Sheppard takes over early on. At safety, Madieu Williams and Tyrell Johnson are average at best, but have job security at least in the foreseeable future. This defense is one of NFL's best, and may need to carry the team if Brett Lorenzo calls it quits.

PK Ryan Longwell and P Chris Kluwe have nothing to worry about going forward, and special teams are nothing to worry about in the cozy Metrodome. As a University of Minnesota alum, I am obligated to point out former Gopher great and kickoff specialist Rhys Lloyd has been brought in to do just that, kickoff. He may or may not have the greatest job in the NFL. While you're at it, go ahead and add PR Darius Reynaud (West Virginia) to the list of players I liked while in college, but no longer can as a member of the Vikings.

As for the schedule, the Vikings open up the year visiting the defending Superbowl champions in New Orleans, and also visit New England and New York Jets which will all pose as difficult games. The Vikings narrowly beat the Ravens (a Steven Hauschka missed FG), and the 49ers (last second miracle TD pass from Favre to Greg Lewis) which were both at home. On top of that, both wins against Green Bay were decided in the 4th quarter. These are all reasons to believe that last year's 12-4 record will not be bested.

Obviously for the Vikings, this season hinges on the return of Brett Favre, and anyone who thinks the team will do just fine without him needs to wake up and smell the Mississippi gumbo. I have always wondered what would happen if the Vikings actually developed a quarterback, like Tarvaris Jackson, or anyone. 3rd-string QB Sage Rosenfels is probably best friends with Broncos QB Brady Quinn, citing their common ground as young players that were traded to play, but had their dreams of starting crushed by powers bigger than both (Tim Tebow, God, Favre, they're all kind of the same). Simply put, without Favre this team is a borderline playoff team at best, and look for Head Coach Brad Childress to be on the proverbial "hot seat" if the Vikings miss out on postseason play.

3. Chicago Bears

2010 Prediction: 9-7 (3-3 vs. NFC North)

The windy city has proven to be just that when it has come to Offensive Coordinators in Chicago. Mike Martz will fill that role in 2010, set to debut his latest version of "The Greatest Show on... " He has had stops as an OC in Detroit and San Francisco since being the Head Coach of the St. Louis Rams until 2005. For a few seasons now, the Bears have stood behind Head Coach Lovie Smith, who was hired in 2004 and was the lowest paid NFL coach until 2007, when he signed a four-year contract extension after two quick playoff appearances. Since then, both player and coach longevity have been tumultuous to say the least in Chicago, other than a few key defensive players. We've seen QBs Kyle Orton and Brian Griese, try to elevate the team to the next level. What about QB Rex Grossman (Washington Redskins), remember him? Grossman (who if you recall, Packer fans were upset their team passed on in the 2003 draft) "led" the 2006 Bears to the Superbowl only to lose to Peyton Manning and the Colts. 1st-round draft pick RB Cedric Benson (now with Cincinnati) couldn't avoid legal trouble long enough to stick around. Despite all of this, the Bears have rebuilded to an extent, replacing 2009 OC Ron Turner with Martz to revive a dismal passing attack. QB Jay Cutler has a massive amount of talent, but seems too prone to making bad throwing decisions when pressured, throwing for 27 TDs, but still 26 INTs in 2009. Bears fans would argue that with some actual receiving talent, Cutler would flourish. The WRs Cutler has to work with are young, and unproven. WR Johnny Knox showed some big play ability, and I believe WR Devin Aromashodu can play, but Martz needs to work on WR/PR Devin Hester's niche within the offense, this isn't Madden, you can't send him on streaks and burn DBs with his "99" rating in speed. TE Greg Olsen will be a catalyst on offense, and seemed to develop a good rapport with Cutler last season. On the offensive line, C Olin Kruetz, LG Roberto Garza, and LT Chris Williams headline an above average bunch. And when December and January roll around, the rushing attack will be vital. RB Matt Forte lapsed a little in 2009 after an impressive 2008 rookie debut, and needs to return to form in 2010. RB Chester Taylor should have a similar role to the one he had with the Vikings after signing with the division rival Bears, however if Forte falters early on, look for Taylor to take over and produce at a higher level.

The defensive side of the football has always been the focus on Chicago, where combining a physical presence with the ever changing fall weather and proximity to Lake Michigan at Soldier Field has been a recipe for disaster to those teams unfamiliar. Although the stadium itself has lost its old-fashioned appeal, the alien spaceship that landed in the parameters of the venue has been daunting for opponents, with five of their seven wins coming at home last season. However, their ranking in total defense last season was in the bottom half of the NFL, and their 23.4 ppg allowed was 21st out of 32 teams. Not willing to accept that type of performance again, General Manager Jerry Angelo opened up the Bear's pocketbook to sign the big fish in free agency, DE Julius Peppers. Peppers signed a six year contract for $91.6 million but is already 30 years old, and I believe has only three dominant seasons left before he loses a step. It remains to be seen if that small window will be enough to see the Bears reach the Superbowl, but Peppers will have a huge impact and surpasses the Vikings Jared Allen as the most feared defensive player in the NFC North. Defensive Coordinator Rod Marinelli (Head Coach of the 2008 Detroit Lions 0-16 debacle) will have his hands full piecing together the rest of the defense. On the line, DTs Tommie Harris and Anthony Adams are solid, but at DE the depth looks quite thin. Big Ten fans remember Northwestern DE Corey Wootton, a Chicago favorite, who might be pushed into a prominent role early. If not, look for returnees DEs Mark Anderson and Israel Idonije to warm his seat. Linebacker features the usual Brian Urlacher, who looks healthy after missing last season with a wrist injury, and Lance Briggs, who appears to have learned his lesson and will no longer leave the scene of a self-induced Lamborghini accidents. LB Pisa Tinoisamoa has a chance to win the strongside LB spot, but I hear LBs Nick Roach and Hunter Hillenmeyer think he's still Univ. of Hawai'i's mascot and refuise to give him reps. The Bears secondary is nothing to brag to Ditka about, the CBs will be Zackary Bowman and Charles Tillman, and at safety are the incumbent Chirs Harris and Danieal Manning. This group will likely keep this defense from being an elite defense in 2010.

PK Robbie Gould and P Brad Maynard I assume are used to kicking in the wind, which explains why they have been around for a few years now. I do miss PK Paul Edinger, the former Bears field goal specialist who now kicks for the Jacksonville Sharks of the Arena Football League. His 56-yard game-winning field goal for the Vikings against the Green Bay Packers on October 23, 2005 is the longest ever in Vikings history. Reminiscing can be fun.

Overall, this team is certainly a wild card of sorts, having the kind of talent that can hang with the some NFL powers (beating Pittsburgh and Minnesota in 2009), but inexplicably turn in completely flat performances on dime (crushed by Arizona and Baltimore). In 2010, the Bears will have three big games to close out the regular season (at Minnesota, vs. New York Jets, and at Green Bay), which will most likely determine their postseason fate. It should be a roller coaster season in the Second City, with most likely another mediocre result. Lovie Smith better check the market value of his residence.

4. Detroit Lions

2010 Prediction: 3-13 (0-6 vs. NFC North)

As an organization, it finally appears that the Ford Family has a team that is improving. From the coaches, to the rookies and second-year players, and also some key offseason acquisitions, the Lions are trying to again become relevant, somehow continuing to be less popular than the Detroit Red Wings who play yes, hockey. I would try to reflect on the glory days of this franchise, but those days have not occurred in my lifetime (since 1987). I'm guessing that a majority of Lions fans still wear Barry Sanders jerseys to games, hoping he still has some gas left in the tank and come out of retirement (insert Favre joke here). Anyway, at least there are some reasons to be excited as the Lions enter the 2010 season. Head Coach Jim Schwartz is a younger guy and full of energy, something I feel is vital as we enter a new decade of the NFL, with a more savvy generation of young players. Schwartz's defensive prowess leaves some freedom for Offensive Coordinator Scott Linehan to explore his personnel. Seeing as the team had nowhere to go but up (winless in 2008), Linehan gave the reigns to QB and former #1 overall selection Matthew Stafford from day one. In 2009, the numbers posted by Stafford are nothing to get excited about, but the experience he gained while playing should be helping him prepare for his second season. On the record, I really like Stafford, and think he'll eventually be a solid starter in the NFL. I have heard some interviews of his feelings toward last season and am very impressed with his professionalism. On November 22nd, 2009, Stafford suffered a separated shoulder on the last drive, then came back to complete a pass for the game-winning touchdown as time expired, winning over his teammates, coaches, and I believe the Detroit faithful in the process.

The rest of the offense should also take a step forward in 2010. WR Calvin Johnson is a physical specimen (6'5", 236 lbs.) and needs to further develop a good relationship with Stafford to take the offense to the next level. Other WR options appear to be free agent acquisition Nate Burleson who fizzled in Seattle but accepted a more modest deal in Detroit to begin his second stint in the NFC North, and Derrick Williams, the speedy second year player out of Penn St. who the Lions want to use in the slot. One rookie I was intrigued by in 2009 was TE Brandon Pettigrew (Okla. St.), who paired with TE Tony Scheffler (who arrived in the Ernie Sims trade) will be viable options for Stafford in the passing game. The backfield was also addressed in the 2010 off-season, in the draft, when the Lions traded up to draft RB Jahvid Best (Cal) who is similar Reggie Bush, and will be a receiving and returning threat this season. RB Kevin Smith, once thought to be building block for the future, seems to have run out of time. Do not be surprised if Smith is relegated to goal-line and short-yardage duties in 2010. The offensive line leaves a bit to be desired, but cornerstone players LT Jeff Backus and RT Gosder Cherilus provide some sack security for Stafford.

Defensive Coordinator and guru Gunther Cunningham looks to improve this season, his second with the Lions. He will surely welcome with open arms the #2 overall selection in 2010 draft, DT Ndamukong Suh out of Nebraska. Suh dominated offensive lines in the Big 12 in 2009, and should seamlessly transition to the same position with the Lions. He will be joined on that line by free agent DE Kyle Vanden Bosch, who was greeted at his front door by HC Jim Schwartz at 11pm on the eve of free agency. Schwartz was the Defensive Coordinator for the Tennessee Titans until 2008. Vanden Bosch should prove the best pass rushing threat since Robert Porcher terrorized the Pontiac Silverdome. At Linebacker there is a large void left by former Lions 1st-round pick Ernie Sims (Philadelphia Eagles). Sims was productive, but didn't make the impact they had hoped. Unproven LB Landon Johnson should start on the weakside, and MLB will either be filled be former Univ. of Wisconsin standout DeAndre Levy, or second-year player Jordan Dizon, both will struggle. Strongside LB will again be veteran Julian Peterson's job to lose. Lastly on defense, the secondary in Detroit is lacking in experience. Long gone are the "wrong place, right time" interceptions by Dre Bly. FS Louis Delmas will do all he can to aid the Lions in bending, but hopefully not breaking against oppositions.

Some day, those who blindly assume Jason Hanson is the one splitting the uprights in Detroit will be wrong. However, that will not happen in 2010. Hanson is back again, and it is absolutely staggering that he has been converting field goals successfully there since 1992. Would it be too much for the Lions to retire his number after he calls it quits? He was also their 2nd round draft pick in '92, and is the last player to have played for the same team he plays for prior to the advent of free agency and the salary cap (1994). Needless to say, Hanson has been the best investment the Lions have ever made. Oh yeah, Punter Nick Harris will be back to join Hanson, presumably because he holds Hanson's FGs so well.

Although a 3-13 record is not much of an improvement over the 2-14 record the 2009 Lions posted, you should expect them to be, at the very least, more competitive. The three wins should come over fellow division basement dwellers St. Louis, Buffalo, and Tampa Bay, but dont be surprised if they steal a couple more as they continue to focus on the future.

Detroit is a city that has professional sports team that fans love to hate, but it's difficult to hate a team that hasn't had a winning record since 2000. No matter how the other three teams in the division finish in 2010, the Lions are likely a lock to stay on the bottom of the NFC North, but the focus has been placed on the future and rebuilding. Lets face it, GM Martin Mayhew can't possibly be worse than Matt Millen. Surely Lions fans will subdue their optimism.

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That completes your 2010 NFC North Preview, now how about we reduce these preseason games and tack on a few more meaningful ones?

- Chase Fiebig

MLB Attendance is Saddening

One cannot help but notice just how sparse some of the attendance has been this year in Major League Baseball. Most teams see a drastic drop in attendance after their opening series, especially teams that are not necessarily expected to compete (sorry Pirates, Reds, and Blue Jays). This can largely be attributed to the state of the economy, however most teams continue to raise ticket prices without offering many enticing deals. I don't quite understand why MLB Organizations find that they need to charge ridiculous prices for seats in the lower level.

Here are some prices for good seats at a handful of stadiums:

New York Yankees, Yankee Stadium, Field Box Lower Level: $300-$375
Colorado Rockies, Coors Field, Infield Box Lower Level: $47-$100
Chicago White Sox, U.S. Cellular Field, Premium Lower Level: $53-$70

Just to name a few...

One team, the New York Yankees, has really been under the microscope already early into the 2009 season. Specifically, their lack of filling up their most expensive seats, which are being sold for about to $2,500 per ticket. One would think, from a managerial standpoint, that the Yankees would want these seats to be full for each game. Well, they are not, and it looks terrible. This is supposed to be America's representation of a baseball team, with all of the pride and glory surrounding the Yankee franchise, the best seats in the house should not be the empty ones. Major League Baseball cannot be happy with this situation, and nor should they. However, is this a result of greed, or did the Yankees just underestimate not only the economic climate this year, but the public's willingness to buy high end tickets for astronomical prices? Just something to ponder...

Meanwhile, there are currently 8 teams averaging under 50% attendance for home games so far this season. Of those teams, Toronto, the best team in baseball, is averaging 40% per game. How does that happen, even if it is Canada? If winning doesn't put the fans in the stands, then I don't know what will. Granted, it is not technically summer yet, and attendance typically grows during June thru August. But I think the attendance issue is something to take notice of, and a growing issue that is affecting our nation's pastime.

Wisconsin Sport Tidbits -

- The Wisconsin Timber Rattlers (new Brewers Low-A Affiliate) played a "Border Battle" at Miller Park versus Midwest League rival and Cub's affiliate Peoria Chiefs. The Rattlers win 5-3 in front of 17,000+. This is a great investment by the Brewers to showcase their organization's talent on a more local level.

- Unless you live in a cave, you're aware the Green Bay Packers had what has been called an excellent draft this past weekend. ESPN's Mel Kiper gave the Packers a grade of an "A", the only one of the entire draft. Other than the 1st round, most fans are not aware of the players the Packers drafted, I will talk about rookie progress in an OTA article coming soon.