Packers Odds
Packers Odds Without a clear view of quarterback Brett Favre's possible future with the Minnesota Vikings in sight, the pecking order in the NFC North remains uncertain.

However, after showing flashes of being a very good team in 2008, the Green Bay Packers are looking to take the next step as they head into the 2009 season.

After a 6-10 finish a season ago, odds makers are also seeing the Pack's potential giving them about 2/1 odds to win the NCF North. Vegas also has the Packers at 9/1 to win the NFC, while making them a 35/1 shot to win Super Bowl XLIV.

Green Bay and GM Ted Thompson did not make any huge moves in free agency, choosing instead to build through the draft. The Packers landed defensive tackle B.J. Raji with the ninth overall pick and then traded back into the first round to
select linebacker Clay Matthews with the 26th pick.

These two key pick-ups on defense are expected to fit nicely into Green Bay's new 3-4 defensive scheme.

On the offensive side of the ball, quarterback Aaron Rodgers returns to begin his second season as the starter after playing very well in replacing the legendary Brett Favre. Along with Rogers, quality starters Donald Driver, Greg Jennings and Ryan Grant all return to a Packers offense that expects to put up a lot of points this season.

Although, I like Packers to have some success in 2009, I don't like the odds. At 2/1 to win the division, it is not a good bet. The Lions will have to be better than they were a year ago. The Chicago Bears and new quarterback Jay Cutler will be tough. And with or without Brett Favre, the Minnesota Vikings have to be the favorite to come out of the North.