Look For Packers to top NFC North

By Nik Sobic  |   Tuesday, August 12, 2008  |  Comments( 6 )

Green Bay Packers
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It’s been an emotional few weeks for Packers fans, but take a deep breath and tell yourself it’s going to be OK.

After the first few series of Green Bay's preseason opener against the Cincinnati Bengals on Monday, it was clear that the Packers will still be a force to reckon with in the NFC North. Every offensive aspect, including quarterback play from Aaron Rodgers, looked sharp, as did the defense. Despite having a few key players on the bench (running back Ryan Grant, receiver Greg Jennings, center Scott Wells, defensive end Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila and cornerback Al Harris, for instance) and missing some opportunities, the Packers looked like a team that should be able to thrive on a near-weekly basis.

The question is: Did the Packers do enough damage to themselves to put their reign atop the NFC North in jeopardy? Based on one quarter of football after the first preseason game of the year, it doesn't seem that way.

It's early, but here are a couple bold claims regarding the Packers this season:

-Rodgers will be the best quarterback in the NFC North. That seems bold until you consider the fourth-year man's competition is Jon Kitna (Detroit), Tarvaris Jackson (Minnesota) and either Kyle Orton or Rex Grossman (Chicago). Rodgers' lengthy prep time on the bench will not pardon him from making a few newbie mistakes, but his knowledge of the offense and strong supporting cast will make him look like a seasoned vet more often than not.

-The Packers will finish the season atop the NFC North at 10-6. Plain and simple, they’re still the best team in the division.

Sounds crazy, but would you bet against it?

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About Nik Sobic

Nik Sobic is a Graduate of Harvard University and former NFL/CFL football player. When he isn't writing about sports he's writing comedy. Nik's unique background and passion for writing make him a valuable addition to our staff. Nik was born and raised a Packer fan-he hails from Milwaukee, WI.
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