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Hey La, Hey La, My Brett Favre's Back

Michael Green |
August 18, 2010 | 2:40 p.m. PDT

Staff Writer

Well, it’s official. Wait, maybe not. Okay, yeah, it’s official. Captain Grey Beard of the S.S. Vikings is sailing into training camp in preparation for another season.

Brett Favre spent yet another summer giving SportsCenter an extra 10 minutes of material every day as he decided whether or not to trade in his cleats for a pair of Wranglers this season. Ultimately, the emperor of indecisiveness chose to strap on the shoulder pads in 2010.

Roll your eyes if you must, but there is no denying that NFL fans across the country still have a fascination with the old fart in the No. 4 jersey. After he landed in Minnesota, ESPN showed footage of Favre’s car speeding down the interstate like it was a white Ford Bronco.

The fact is, Favre’s (in)decision does have a significant impact on the NFC playoff picture. Anybody who disputes this statement should try to envision Vikings fans punching their Super Bowl tickets while donning Sage Rosenfels jerseys.

At the tender age of 39, Favre had arguably his best statistical season last year, throwing for over 4,000 yards and 33 touchdowns. Perhaps most importantly, he had his lowest interception total (seven) since becoming an NFL starting quarterback.

Not only did Favre enjoy several personal accolades, he also made his teammates better. Receiver Sidney Rice and tight end Visanthe Shiancoe experienced career years with their new quarterback, while Adrian Peterson had his best season as a receiver out of the backfield.

By returning for 2010, Favre instantly gives Minnesota the ability to stretch opposing defenses. That threat also means wider running lanes for Peterson to plow through and less stress on the offensive line.

The importance of having a veteran presence who has won a Super Bowl cannot be overstated. Minnesota’s roster is chock-full of talent but lacks players who have performed on the championship stage. Favre gives them that with a bullet.    

Minnesota instantly goes from a fringe playoff contender to Super Bowl hopeful with the future Hall of Famer under center. The only question is whether or not the NFL’s iron man has another full season left in the tank.

Now 40, Favre, as well as Vikings fans, should be concerned that all of the nagging injuries will catch up with him. If that happens, his decision on whether or not to return in 2011 may be made for him.

Hypotheticals aside, Favre a decade from now could step on the field and still give Minnesota a better chance to win than any quarterback currently on their roster. And, whether the fans want to admit it or not, the NFL is better off for having him in uniform.

To reach staff writer Michael Green, click here.



 

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