Bodog Beat

When Green Bay squares off agains Minnesota, Brett Favre's abscence will probably start paying divdends. (AP Images)

The Green Bay Packers (4-4 SU, 5-3 ATS) did what they had to do to keep Brett Favre from becoming a member of the Minnesota Vikings (4-4 SU, 3-5 ATS). It was a public relations fiasco, but it should pay a dividend on Sunday when these two NFC North archrivals meet at the Metrodome.

There’s a considerable difference in quality between these two 4-4 clubs. The Vikings have a better defense, specifically against the run, where the Packers front seven just isn’t cutting it. But Green Bay counters with Favre’s replacement, Aaron Rodgers (13 TDs, five INTs, 95.3 passer rating), who’s having a Favresque season with almost no fanfare.

Minnesota is going with the steadier veteran Gus Frerotte (77.6 rating) at QB over the potential of Tarvaris Jackson (68.6 career rating). The Vikings are 4-2 SU and 3-3 ATS since making the switch; they’re 2-point home faves in Sunday’s matchup.

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