CHRIS JORDAN
Yesterday I told you Duke was a great play, despite a key injury to the quarterback. In fact, I pointed that out earlier in the week when I released the game on Tuesday, and said it would not matter and to take the underdog. Guess what? The Green Bay Packers are just as valuable against the Minnesota Vikings, regardless of Aaron Rodgers' situation.
Personally, I think the Packers quarterback will be in uniform when the Vikings visit Lambeau Field. He said he plans to play, despite a knee injury that could cause pain for months. Rodgers practiced yesterday for the first time since he sprained the knee in last Sunday's thrilling season-opening victory over the Chicago Bears.
But we all know one of Rodgers' many strengths is his mobility, and by resting all week, I thiink we're going to see him in action, and we will see him do what he does best - extend plays outside the pocket. With the injury last week, he still carved up Chicago's secondary while operating in a shotgun or pistol formation. With him under center, Green Bay's quick-pace offense is unstoppable.
Rodgers has thrown only six interceptions in 19 games as a starter against the Vikings, and with this being a division rivalry, it's another reason I believe he take a huge shot in the knee and makes an attempt to play.
On the other side of the ball, Green Bay's defense responded after a horrendous first half, and held the Bears to two field goals in the second half. At home, against the Vikes, the Packers defense will step up - especially knowing Rodgers will need an assist.
Take the home pup, as the Packers aim for the outright. And as long as the line is anywhere between +2' and +4, buy the half point up.
1* PACKERS