The NFL betting world was rocked when Brett Favre unretired (again) to come back and play for Minnesota, the bitter rivals of Green Bay, where Favre spent 16 seasons. How does this affect the NFL betting odds for this division?
Minnesota (+125) is favored by a little more with Favre in the lineup, but it remains to be seen if he’s healthy. People are saying that he’s looked good in his first couple of days, but another report is saying that he has a partial tear in his rotator cuff, which isn’t a good thing when you’re paid to throw. It also may backfire on the Vikings and get them away from what they should be doing, which is handing it off to Adrian Peterson at every opportunity.
Chicago (+140) is still hot on the Vikings’ heels, but they badly need some receiving help for Jay Cutler, who admittedly didn’t look good in his preseason debut. At least he has a great running back in Matt Forte, who had a brilliant rookie campaign. The defense will also benefit from less three-and-outs by the offense, which will keep them fresh and give a boost to the Bears’ Super Bowl odds.
Green Bay (+180) fans have November 1st circled on their calendar, as that will be Favre’s return to Lambeau Field, and it’ll be the most anticipated game of the year by a mile. The Packers need to focus on their own house, and Aaron Rodgers should be improved, especially in late-game situations. The defense will be switching to a 3-4 scheme under new coordinator Dom Capers, after using the 4-3 since 1992. The Packers would definitely be a solid darkhorse pick in your sportsbook software.
Detroit’s (+1500) odds are a little better, but let’s be honest: the Lions making the playoffs is like Toronto becoming one of the most popular Stanley Cup picks of the upcoming season. But then again, there’s really nowhere to go but up for the Lions, who were a disgusting 0-16 in 2008. That said, they have some good young pieces on offense in No.1 pick Matt Stafford, Calvin Johnson and tight end Brandon Pettigrew, who may be the steal of the first round. Still, I wouldn’t take them too much in your offshore sportsbook.
