The Minnesota Vikings paid tribute to the late George Steinbrenner

The Vikings finished the season on a 7-3-1 spread run and they have cashed at a 6-2-1 clip in their past nine as home favorites. They have thrived against division rivals as well, winning and 'covering' nine of 12.

Minnesota has taken advantage of the bye week recently, winning five straight (4-1 ATS). This year they face the New York Jets after their week off.

Last year the Green Bay Packers narrowly missed a shot at the NFL's elite eight in a 51-45 overtime loss to Arizona. They made huge strides across the board, improving from six wins to 11, despite an offensive line that was ravaged with injuries.

Aaron Rodgers threw for 4,434 yards and 30 touchdowns with just seven interceptions last year. To become great, he must lower the number of sacks he took in 2009 (50). The return of Chad Clifton and Mark Tauscher and the addition of first-round pick Bryan Bulaga provide stability on the offensive line and makes Rodgers job a lot easier.

Green Bay has been virtually invincible at Lambeau Field (32-6 since 1992) Brett Favre  and against division competition. The Packers have won and 'covered' 17 of their last 24 against their Northern neighbors.

Green Bay has also been a solid investment on the highway, cashing 14 of 21 as road pups and eight of 12 as road favorites since 2006.

The addition of Julius Peppers should spice things up in the Windy City. The Kevin Williams Chicago Bears defense will also benefit from the return of leader Brian Urlacher, back from the dislocated wrist that wiped out his entire 2009 season, and a healthy Tommie Harris at tackle.

Coach Lovie Smith is well aware that if the Bears don't improve this season, after going 7-9 in 2009, he can pack his bags. He has been allowed to promote good friend Rod Marinelli to defensive coordinator and hire former boss Mike Martz to run the offense.

 

The new Minnesota Vikings jerseys ownership and organization wish to extend their condolences to the George Steinbrenner family and the New York Yankees on Mr. Steinbrenner's passing earlier today. As an instrumental figure in Major League Baseball and all of professional sports, Mr. Steinbrenner helped the Yankees develop an uncompromising style in their quest for championships. Under Steinbrenner's stewardship, Major League Baseball experienced significant growth while the Yankees became a recognizable sports icon throughout the world – the standard for both competitiveness and excellence. Most importantly, Mr. Steinbrenner's commitment to charitable giving, amateur sports and the United States Olympic Committee became staples of his consistent community outreach. The Vikings thoughts and prayers are with Mr. Steinbrenner's family and friends