No Super Bowl Hangover In Mr. Rodgers' Neighborhood

It is a conceit of our generation that he's supposed to be the symbolic savior in a town where football is deeply worshipped and he has delivered, arousing the Lambeau faithful to provoke a celebration in the stands. Aaron Rodgers is an American figure to the Cheeseheads, if not in the entire state of Wisconsin -- in the land of country fairs and cheese factories.

It's another tale to be told, a ritual each season, an inspirational onset in a prestigious venue that spiritually was transformed into Mr. Rodgers' Neighborhood in Green Bay. One still can recall the celebration of revival in Titletown, a rebirth for one of the grandest eras in Packers history, much of it centering Rodgers' poise, maturity and leadership -- which all led to the Packers first Super Bowl victory and the wildest celebration outside of Lambeau Field in 13 seasons.

It ignited more than just a tailgate party, and drew the sweetest block party in the streets of Green Bay, giving the country folks something worthwhile. He's not homespun as a person, as a sports figure or as a town idol, but Rodgers is an artistic and skilled athlete who dilated his stardom.

His early success is noticed by a lone Super Bowl victory, exhortations of aspiration for arguably the NFL's most revered franchise, lionized dearly for becoming the identity of the small-town in Wisconsin, for becoming the symbol of the community and for possessing marquee players. He looks like the kind of humbled athlete you can predict on every series of plays.

His focus is kind of alarming and, more than ever, his passing and mobility is effective in the red zone, normally pushing the ball into the end zone with his stellar abilities in passing or even his nimble footwork that allows Rodgers to sprint into the end zone untouched.

The storyline of the Packers, the romantic tale of a priceless gunslinger and the season-opener 42-34 victory over the New Orleans Saints, ultimately, is that Rodgers guided the defending champs as there is nonetheless hopefulness of the Packers potentially winning back-to-back titles, a rarity Green Bay could consummate with all the talent surrounding Rodgers, whose transcendent emergence last season proved to be serviceable.

But he's not only a beneficiary, he's also the face of the Packers, and he's a factor on a quest to potentially repeat greatness in an age that winning back-to-back titles seem implausible and unrealistic. Not long before kickoff, Bart Starr, a Packers legend stood on the field and carried the team flag as fans in the stands were thrilled and erupted when he emerged from the tunnel onto the Lambeau turf.

With all due respect, the Cheesehead supporters were thankful to embrace the all-time great, but are even more graceful for the heroics and inspiring play by Rodgers. The ancient ritual in the league is known as the Packers and, as we all know, Rodgers is playing in the shadows of many legends and the organization demands high standards from its star quarterback.

The night for Rodgers, after a 27-for-35, 312-yard, three touchdown performance, was sensational and unbelievably one of his best performances of his prosperous career for which he could be defined as simply the most exceptional passer in the game. It is the latest rite, a heartfelt moment in Packers history, so astounding it won't ever be denied and will always be indelible eternally, particularly in a town where football signifies sanity and sentiment.

It was quite another moment, the season-opener no doubt -- as there seems to be no Super Bowl hangovers after Green Bay captured its first win -- and it was Rodgers once again having an impact on the outcome of the Packers showdown against the Saints in prime time. It's now the Packers entering another season in pursuit of defending a title -- and with Rodgers' strong delivery -- Rodgers is confident and emotionally stronger.

It's a reality to honestly believe in the Packers' monstrous defense, sturdy and physically built to relieve much pressure off Rodgers, along with the creativity and brilliance from defensive coordinator Dom Capers designing his crafty schemes defensively. By definition, Rodgers is the ultimate NFL magnet, featuring a delivery in his arsenal and much precision which is incomparable and appeal to Packers fans, accustomed to applauding legends and visualizing celebrations in Titletown U.S.A.

It was the first game after an ugly off-season labor dispute, and as we waited patiently for months to witness football again, Rodgers gave the enthusiastic audience an aerial performance. It was a Thursday night showdown that minimized the anger and grudges toward the NFL, a once greedy and pompous enterprise for mostly fighting over money and the new labor deal.

In Green Bay, locating a sense of humility is an annual practice, a normal behavior in a widespread culture. It is a place of NFL roots, an atmosphere where fans tailgate outside of Lambeau Field in the frigid climate, and where a venue is truly honored after the team's first ever coaching legend. If there is a street named after Vince Lombardi, then we can only think that it's possible for Rodgers to someday be given a street named after him.

Rodgers Avenue is quite fitting.

In a time when Rodgers is sitting on the crest of two Super Bowl championships in a row, as the Packers are clearly suitable and fundamentally sound to win back-to-back titles, it's not commonplace to witness a franchise repeat triumph in consecutive seasons. The Patriots won back-to-back. The 49ers came before the Brady Bunch, though, dating back to the '80s era when Joe Montana dominated and when Jerry Rice secured a measure of success that fabricated one of the best dynasties in sports.

This time, it was the Packers and Rodgers, a dramatic shootout of a game, infatuating the country that we embrace and that delights us. There's no denying it, but the beauty of sports is football, a country hypnotized by the drama of America's popular gem. And once again, for what it is, Rodgers was intriguing and very fun to watch as he walked off the field victorious.

This was specifically about Rodgers and his blistering offense, lifting the Packers to a signature win by the advantages of the dangerous rush attack of running back Ryan Grant. In this particular game, buoyed by Rodgers after the first quarter when he completed 14 of 15 passes, the Packers were untouchable and unbeaten. It was too much for the Saints to handle. The only incomplete pass came on an intentional throw-away with an ideal passer rating of 158.3, and by the end of the night, he had thrown the ball to 10 Packers, nearly matching Drew Brees in a breathtaking quarterback duel.

By the time the game ended, he was even more brilliant, finishing 32 for 49 passing with 419 yards and three touchdowns. Yet Brees was flawless, the Saints also had a reliable special teams with the addition of Darren Sproles, who runs fast and had 204 total yards and a touchdown on only eight touches. The story of the night was Packers rookie Randall Cobb, a receiver from Kentucky selected in the second round, scoring on a 32-yard touchdown reception in the first quarter, and then returning a kickoff in the third quarter for an NFL record-tying 108-yard touchdown.

The final moments of a potential comeback had fallen short with the game ending when rookie running back Mark Ingram tried to push the ball into the end zone, but was just a foot short from potentially sending the thriller into overtime when he was denied by safety Morgan Burnett and Clay Matthews.

It was fun to watch the dimensional offense that seems poised and impressive for another postseason run as the deepest team in the league surrounded by Grant, who had nine carries for 40 yards -- or even tight Jermichael Finley, a pair of components who can victimize any opponent the Packers encounter.

It proves, perhaps more than ever, that the Packers are invulnerable and dangerous on defense, without even suffering from a hangover, not affected by a Super Bowl hangover but ready to pursue glory again. If the Packers don't frighten the league, then the league is naive or just too insecure to admit the truth. This is practically because of Rodgers after finding receivers brilliantly, after throwing perfectly and timely and after mastering a craft of throwing passes.

There might be the Packers celebrating good times in Mr. Rodgers' Neighborhood again, along with a belt celebration, too.

Aaron Rodgers Writes New Chapter In Packers History

For a moment there, it felt as if the Pittsburgh Steelers were in position to manufacture another breathtaking comeback for the ages on one of the most momentous national holidays in sports, a moment we crave the sentimental portraits, the wildest finishes and clutch moments.

In the sense that America evidently worships football more than any other professional sport, when the Super Bowl every year normally accumulates enormous television ratings as families and friends gather collectively to watch the Super Bowl and gorge on chips and dip, the Green Bay Packers can rightfully so be called America's Team.

This national perception now is that we are supposed to put forth our praise for traditionally a franchise known for triumphant victories in the past.

That's because the Packers were incredibly the most disciplined, famous and admirable franchise coached by the legendary Vince Lombardi, back in the age when Green Bay was the symbol of professional football, particularly with a win in the first ever Super Bowl.

Rather amazingly, it wasn't the greatest of performances when Christina Aguilera blundered a line as she shouted out the national anthem at the beginning in front of a sellout crowd at Cowboys Stadium or when the Black Eyed Peas hijacked the night during halftime for a 12-minute music spectacle that sounded awful.

This certainly wasn't the case for the Packers, far more superior against the Steelers on a night with implications, during an event that Green Bay had national spotlight for the first time in 14 seasons. The confetti poured onto the field, the homogenous scoreboard inside above the world's largest palace indicated that the Packers were the champs and won their first title in 14 years in the aftermath of a 31-25 win over the Steelers in a dramatic fashion in Super Bowl XLV.

By then, when the Packers celebrated and danced after accomplishing the improbable, veteran wide receiver Donald Driver broke down into tears, helpless with an injury that kept him sidelined for the rest of the game.

By then, the adversity was erased from their minds and happiness was installed for the Packers -- doubted for much of the season, including the postseason.

By then, cornerback Charles Woodson, unable to move his collarbone, was teary eyed over on the sideline and watched his teammates come together as a cohesive squad to astonishingly beat the experienced Steelers.

Then, unexpectedly, it happened where Green Bay proved to be the elites in the league this season with unforeseen star power and clearly a bevy of talent.

It was, however, customary that the Packers fought off adversity and endured the complications of injuries in some way throughout the regular season, handling the obstacles with unflappability and poise, while feeding from the non-believers' negativity to surprise the entire world by hoisting the Lombardi Trophy.

The hardware, so beautifully, for a fervent, zealous football town crazily wearing cheesehead hats and rooting on the Packers during tailgate parties or even while relaxing around others, is returning to Titletown and sharing a place in Mr. Rodgers' Neighborhood.

So, was this one of the greatest Super Bowls in Packers history?

Yes. Indeed it was.

"It's a great day for the Green Bay Packers," coach Mike McCarthy said after the game. "The Lombardi Trophy is finally going back home."

On the finest night, the team from the smallest market in the league, known as the Packers, prevailed on the national stage and clinched their fourth Super Bowl title. For one, it was the nicest contest for Aaron Rodgers, once disregarded by many as a fitted successor to Brett Favre -- he's now relatively the hallowed figure and has emerged into a legend before our very eyes.

With the win, a 304-yard, three-touchdown performance, Rodgers was flawless and created his legacy.


In nearly every game this season, he cemented a shred of his legacy and rapidly developed into an iconic figure in a town that believes in him, even though he was considered a polarizing player at one point. Regardless of how poorly the Steelers played in a familiar setting, after Rodgers was hearing the comparisons and doubts about reaching a climax as superb as Favre's, he is no more the subject of the Favre comparisons.

"I've never felt like there's been a monkey on my back. The [Green Bay Packers] organization stood behind me. Believed in me...I told [Packers executive] Ted [Thompson] back in 2005, he wouldn't be sorry with this pick. I told him in 2008 that I was going to repay their trust and get us this opportunity."

If anything, he's a likable legend in the future and probably will raise to new heights and beyond the bygone diva. He's a crafty, savvy and proficient quarterback with accuracy, mobility and excellent throwing motion, the wonderful attributes of being an elite passer. When it ended Sunday night with the Packers saying cheese, he achieved his new agenda, very easily, by grabbing a spot in the company of Tom Brady and Peyton Manning, the level of majesty even if he only has one Super Bowl ring.

The resiliency was the total difference for the renovation of clearly the top franchise, adjusting to tough situations without the contributions of primary stars hampered by injuries.

"This is just like our season—a lot of adversity," said Rodgers. "A lot of high-character guys stepped up and played huge roles."

Afterwards, inside the loser's locker room, Ben Roethlisberger sat somberly, wearing a despairing expression. In there, he reflected back on his lousy performance, and blamed himself for the blemishes.

In this specific one, he was respectively a mere 25-of-40 for 263 yards with two touchdowns, but threw two interceptions to destroy the Steelers drive and momentum. It stifled the Steelers from capturing triumph this time, but worked in the favor of the Packers.

So, with deeper talent and better preparations, the Packers hoisted the Lombardi Trophy and took advantage of Roethlisberger's miscues. Clearly, one of his passes were intended to wide receiver Mike Wallace that bounced to Packers safety Nick Collins, after Roethlisberger was struck hard by Packers nose tackle Howard Green.

The unprepared and costly mistakes by the Steelers allowed Collins to return the ball 36 yards for a touchdown, opening a Packers 14-0 lead no time after scoring their first touchdown.

Known for his heroics and clutch finishes, Roethlisberger couldn't conduct an 87-yard drive for a game-winning touchdown to complete another mind-blowing, epic finish in a classic Super Bowl.

In the greatest event, on the brightest stage, he struggled unlike ever before and made foolish decisions with the ball.

Late in the final minutes, the Steelers managed to reach only their 33-yard line before they were forced into a fourth-down situation. That's when Roethlisberger threw an incomplete pass to end Pittsburgh's remarkable pursuit for a third Super Bowl win in six seasons.

This time, instead, Rodgers celebrated with bliss. He seized the moment and raised his arms skyward. That alone removes the immeasurable drama of playing in the shadows of the legendary Favre. Just like that, he's not in the shadows, he's not under additional pressure to perform sharply and not expected to replicate Favre's style.

Of course, as we all know, if we follow history, Bart Starr came before Favre.

And with that, Rodgers came after Favre. What happened was real, glancing at a star quarterback elevating his legacy to new heights, voted the game's Most Valuable Player. Finally, he was well deserving of some praise and spotlight by the end of the night, for which he completed 24 of 39 passes for 304 yards with three touchdowns and no interceptions. It's always nice to have Jordy Nelson, the latest Super Bowl stud, and he was very impressive that he could have split the MVP honors with Rodgers.


In the most important game ever for Nelson, he accounted for nine catches for 140 yards and a touchdown, but dropped five passes. It doesn't matter, if you're the winners.

And from an obvious standpoint, the Packers are winners.

A few years from now, Rodgers will be threatening to overshadow Favre's legacy, particularly if he surpasses his unparalleled record book and shatters the results, and at this rate, it's possible, very possible.

If there were any player sensational this postseason, it clearly was Rodgers, the hottest commodity among quarterbacks this season. By the way, he finished the playoffs with 1,094 passing yards and nine touchdown passes, joining Kurt Warner in such an honorable category as the only quarterbacks with 1,000-plus yards passing and nine touchdown passes.

Even now, in many ways, he's better than what Favre was in his young career, already the all-time leader in passer rating in the postseason with a 112.6 rating to surpass Starr. With a lone Super Bowl under his belt, along with a belt celebration like no other, he just has to win another title to rise above Favre.

Of course, with all of this happening instantly, nobody in Green Bay misses Favre and have happily fell in love with Rodgers, calling most of the town Mr. Rodgers' Neighborhood. And for such a creative name, it doesn't take long to understand that the Lombardi Trophy will land in his neighborhood.

Titletown U.S.A. still exist.

Aaron Rodgers' Legacy Blooms Before Our Very Eyes, Makes Us Forget Favre

For Aaron Rodgers, the 27-year-old blistering-hot quarterback who has reached a crescendo and now in his first ever Super Bowl appearance, this would be the recent installment to possibly the finest renovation in history for the Green Bay Packers. So candidly, for the first time, Rodgers has elevated his legacy on the national stage and shares the national spotlight with Pittsburgh Steeler's quarterback Ben Roethlisberger.

If he's nervous, for the most alarming game of his lifetime, it is very understandable, particularly when he's playing in the shadows of the incomparable legend Brett Favre. So, with motivation, emotions and a strong heart to handle the pressure, he's now described as one of the elite stars in the NFL, equipped to quickly flourish as a legend. The smartest player on the Packers' roster is Rodgers, an iconic figure playing in the most decisive role, with the intangibles to extend his own agenda by his maturity and influential leadership.

The ripple effect, very truthfully, is his quick release, accuracy, footwork and beautiful throwing motions, all proper ingredients to put together an assertive strategy for a proficient scheme. Rodgers, genuinely, is pursuing to sharpen his personality and distinction in the wake of the post-Favre era, a grisly time period when Favre held Green Bay hostage nearly every summer. Though the memories of 16 seasons traditionally lives on, considering that he was labeled a traitor for his surreal transition once he signed with the archrival Minnesota Vikings, his legacy is remembered eternally.

It's almost unforeseen ever since he abruptly departed the Packers, to create a drama within a heartbroken relationship, an outlandish marriage that had unraveled because he selfishly initiated national disturbance with his peeving sagas over his retiring status. Faster than ever, this forced Packers GM Ted Thompson to trade Favre to the New York Jets, for which the starting job was promised to Rodgers. The Packers, favored to win Super Bowl XLV by many, weren't emotionally saddened or regretful after jettisoning Favre three summers ago.

This is where the Packers were suddenly the smarter franchise and took the business approach, considered now one of the elite franchises in professional football ever since Favre's departure. A change of scenery was necessary in the essence that Favre was on the decline and frequently had been waffling his availability, so it empowered Thompson to listen to trade offers, wisely choosing Rodgers over the baffled Favre during one of the craziest controversies in professional football history.

Either way, it clearly was the messy divorces, a horrendous dispute to steam a minor altercation between Thompson and Favre, two men of whom couldn't figure out their differences. There were plenty of lows, plenty of doubts and the relationship had been irreparable a long time ago. Which is why Thompson trusted in the first-round quarterback Rodgers, promised the starting job to him and fell in love with him. Doing so, he made a smart decision that benefited the Packers' future.

At first, patience was virtue for a man who masterfully revamped the framework of a dignified franchise when he used every flirtation and coaxed free-agents to join, and suddenly brought aboard gifted talent that blended in nicely. When he sent away Favre and mishandled the situation, few in Green Bay, furious because he rejected the all-time NFL leader in passing yards, criticized and derided Thompson for deciding to take another direction. He must have felt good vibes to name Rodgers the quarterback, worthy of surpassing Favre for glamorous plateaus in a few decades and shine historically with his accomplished feats.

From what it seems, he is comfortable at the helm satisfied in the sense that he's traditionally obligated to perform at his all-time high, given the immense expectations and strict demands. The storyline here, in retrospect, is how brilliantly Thompson handled the predicament, not hesitant or fearful in dealing Favre and replaces the diva with a young, humbled quarterback.

It was certainly nothing personal to Favre, but in the meantime, it was a brilliant upgrade to improve the future in the aftermath of the endless drama, including all the rumors and distractions that engendered preposterous hype. Thompson, perhaps more than anybody as far as within the Packers organization, felt he had reached a point of frailty in the late stages of his masterful, superlative career. And from then on, the Packers and Favre had broken bonds, but not broken memories, and if anything, the memories were indelible and incredible, after he amassed unique milestones.

It's a rarity, nowadays, for someone to match Favre's historic records and engrave a chapter in the history books. What's of great value is that he was simply the greatest star quarterback to ever play the game. It's not really worth the debate when the mind-blowing numbers are unbelievable and implausible in some ways, but in reality, he accomplished all-time NFL career numbers, such as a 71,838 in passing yards, 508 touchdowns and he even surmounted by Dan Marino in two categories.

But sadly, nobody misses Favre. Nobody misses the veteran, ever since the Packers cut ties with the waffling legend.


There's much too love about Rodgers, perhaps the fact that he blossomed this season on path to surpass the man he replaced with unforeseen milestones, particularly if he persists on being a lethal pocket-passer. At his rate, he could easily excel in the league as the best passer in the game. If he plays long enough in his remarkable career early on, he can easily star in more games than Favre, he can easily break his record of games played.

After 20 seasons, Favre started 298 games, an amazing achievement that seems like a rarity for someone to shatter. But already, in his young career, Rodgers started 47 games in three seasons, showing off his belt celebration whenever he makes a spectacular play or pushes into the end zone himself for a touchdown. Blinded by the Favre's legacy, many have ignored the immediate impact of a first-rounder nobody believed in mainly because he was unproven and a raw rookie from out of college.

But amazingly, he fooled us and survived a difficult task because of chemistry, mentoring from veterans, faith and humbleness. When he came from college, he was the most-derided rookie basically for not knowing the playbook and waiting in the wings. This time, he's the popular star and has surprisingly thrown for 2,000 more yards, 16 more touchdowns and 20 fewer interceptions than Favre in the early stage of his career.

If he can stay healthy and withstand longevity, he can shatter Favre's passer ratings and total in touchdowns. For the next few years, at least, he can rely on a compelling receiver core with the aid of Greg Jennings and veteran wideout Donald Driver. If so, it's easy to assume that he's on pace to accomplish sheer greatness, lead the Packers to postseason wins, Super Bowl trips and lastly be voted to multiple Pro Bowls.

Maybe years from now, we'll find out.

The lost of a veteran star, no doubt, changed the Packers culture but also expunged the wishy-washy Favre.

Not such a bad mistake, after all!

Jay Cutler Quits on Bears, But Rodgers, Packers Take On New Brand Name

It was supposed to be the meanest, bloodiest postseason contest in history, a renewed rivalry for a pair of bitter teams, hungrier than ever before to knock heads into the turf and produce raw blood for one of the greatest NFC Championship Games of all time.

It was supposed to be an epic classic, a chance for the world to witness the rebirth of an intense rivalry, a chance for the world to traditionally catch an emotional feel of old-school, smash mouth football, but instead it was the rebirth of Titletown.

It was a time when the Green Bay Packers, a regal brand name in the NFL, captured Super Bowl triumph and proudly celebrated another historic feat. It's almost simple, particularly if the Packers are crowned champs in a few weeks, to refer to the Packers as America's team, adored customarily for its symbolic popularity and prestige, becoming not only noticeable for its resurgence but also for climbing onto the greatest stage of the grandest national holiday in sports.

The classy, friendly residences of Green Bay realized the Packers were inevitably the hottest franchise, when non-believers in any other town, any other state were peeved by the Packers hurried emergence. The lustful folks of Green Bay, wearing cheesehead hats to keep a silly but lovable tradition intact, are overwhelmed, really, almost ready to launch a party in an emotional, spirited town. And like that, the Packers are a unified and monstrous team in a season Green Bay adjusted the woeful struggles.

If the Packers hope to win the Super Bowl, in a sense, they can win the Lombardi Trophy by the end of the season when it seems Green Bay is invulnerable of a lost anytime soon as favorites to win the Super Bowl with the most efficient passer Aaron Rodgers, the premier quarterback of the league.

There is much to like about Rodgers, whether it's his humbleness to seize the national spotlight without acknowledging it, but instead, focusing on his team, whether it's his capabilities to play in the footsteps of a monumental legend and lead the Packers to glorious moments or whether it's his record-setting 98.4 career passer rating.


Whatever it is, he's an all-encompassing iconic figure, adored for the Packers revival and idolized for exceeding expectations in the leadership role with one of the most beloved franchise traditionally and nationally. If the Packers are the most popular team, lifting closely to greatness without a long-time legend in their third post-Favre season, then it won't be such a bad idea to acknowledge the much-improved Rodgers, who flourished in one season and has been portrayed as the top quarterback in the league.

The turning point, in all likelihood, was perceptible when he led the Packers to a pair of road wins, although Green Bay was taken into account as underdogs in each contest and still fooled the world. It had all come down to what was sudden death, and by virtue, a signature game that Rodgers, withstanding the toughest position by his maturity and talent, confirmed he truly is the best quarterback in the NFL.

As it turns out, optimism and vehemence plays a role in the Packers cultural differences, more alarming than ever was Rodgers manipulating the personality of the game, and more appealing was his delivery to each of his star receivers.

"It was a great start for us but you've got to give credit to our defense. Our defense has been playing lights out the last few weeks," Rodgers said. "The offense sometimes gets a little too much credit. They carried us today and we're going to the Super Bowl. It feels incredible."

A lot of people underestimated the Packers, a lot of people overlooked that Rodgers can make a touchdown-saving tackle. As the latest Packers-Bears rivalry ended wonderfully for Green Bay, against its archenemies in a decisive clash with implications, Rodgers tossed downfield passes and ran for a touchdown.

It wasn't too long ago, dressed casually on the streets of Green Bay, when he walked into Cheese Cake Heaven, a famous bakery near Lambeau Field with Packers' players. In there, he was greeted with warmhearted good luck wishes, and certainly, it benefited Green Bay Sunday afternoon.

As of now, with the only non-profit, community owned franchise in American professional sports, he progressively enhanced his level of play and can eventually win his first Super Bowl title, just one win away from immortality and glory. All of this came after the hallowed era of Vince Lombardi or even after the dramatic era of the wishy-washy diva Brett Favre. In contrast, Rodgers, 27, was never a worldwide leader in nuisance, but a worldwide leader among quarterbacks.

The Packers success is clearly from the emergence of the cannon-armed, pocket passer Rodgers and the relentless, hard-driven defense led by the ferocious Clay Matthews, a man whose family inherits football after the game has been passed on from generations. There was no bloody war, as expected, but there were the Packers playing their hardest to reach a triumphant level in the league, thrilled to be booking hotel reservations and flying to Cowboy Stadium in Dallas.

"It's a dream come true. It's an incredible feeling. I'm at a loss for words," said Rodgers. "You've got to give credit to our defense. I didn't play my best game. They stopped us. We just had enough points on offense and B.J. [Raji] had a big touchdown catch."

This definitely wasn't the most thrilling afternoon, and it never came close to an epic battle we, as football devotees, expected it to turn out. It wasn't pretty for the Bears, in fact, it was worse than we anticipated, particularly when it was the Packers versus the Bears in one of the most alarming clashes for the ages which was never alarming. Not one minute. Not even a second. And because it turned into a nightmare for the Bears, Jay Cutler was vulnerable for attack verbally following the game.

"First and foremost, we've got to stop the run and get after [Jay] Cutler," Clay Matthews said. "I think we did that to fruition. He couldn't finish the game. We really got after him and I think that's why we won today."


So now fairly enough, he's portrayed as a quitter for leaving in the second half with an injured knee, and he never returned but stood on the sideline in his coat. For much of the game, he mainly stood away from his teammates with a guilty facial expression on his face as if he was really sad for letting down his teammates and the coaching staff.

Where he stood, Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher walked over and briefly chatted with Cutler. It wasn't as scary as Cutler, who is expected to undergo an MRI on the damaged knee Monday, advertised it, and he clearly blew his reputation by surrendering in a crucial game.

"I don't know exactly when it happened," Lovie Smith said. "He couldn't go and that was that. Let's go on to some other questions.

Seems he is merely America's worst enemy right now when a few Chicago players were defensive of Cutler after he was criticized heavily on Twitter. He is clearly the one quarterback not to be trusted, but his good friend, Rodgers, is a trustworthy figure and never has been polarized by the media or fans.

In fairness, he quit on his team at the worst possible time and let down thousands at Soldier Field Sunday afternoon, willing to quiver on a frigid afternoon as a way to support their Bears. The problem is, Cutler was soft and careless when much was at stake, which is why players and fans slammed him via Twitter, angrily fumed over his ill-attempt to try and return.

"Nothing like jealous people at home watching," Urlacher said. "I love jealous people when they are watching our game on TV while their season is over."

By the third quarter, he was replaced by Todd Collins but struggled in his two drives and finished 0-4, two passes almost intercepted. If there was one quarterback of the Bears, worthy of saving Chicago from itself, it was clearly Caleb Hanie, a second-year player with 14 career attempts but impressively almost led a magical comeback after he had replaced Collins. There were lots of moments, such as Sunday in his greatest adventure ever, when Rodgers continued to polish on his dignified postseason and completed 4-of-4 passes for 76 yards and scored on a 1-yard touchdown.

Wisely, he wasn't soft or intimidated by the Bears and took a knockout shot directly to the face on a dirty hit by Bears forceful defensive end Julius Peppers. He never quit but persisted in firing throws against one of the league's resilient defenses and he amazingly stayed calm, although he was picked twice and lofted an ill-advised throw in Chicago's territory that dropped into the arms of Urlacher.

So looks as if he was red hot with a pair of turnovers that were unnoticed, once the Packers clinched the NFC championship game in a decisive 21-14 win in one of the oldest rivalries and earned its first trip to the Super Bowl in 13 years. As the clock trickled, if you've noticed, the sellout crowd at Soldier Field were stunned in disbelief and witnessed Hanie foolishly deliver an awful pass that landed in the hands of Packers' nose tackle B.J. Raji to clinch the nicest win in years.

With one of the sharpest creative minds in football, Packers defensive coordinator Dom Capers opted to exploit a zone blitz, and it fittingly ended in their favor on an 18-yard return for a touchdown by the 325-pound nose tackle that gave the Packers a 21-7 lead over the Bears.

"I think when you play a team three times, a familiar opponent, you have to be able to mix it up a little bit in order to present new problems, Matthews said. "I think we were able to do that for the most part."

All the credit goes to Capers for calling the zone blitz at perfect timing, on a day when much was on the line, when the Packers were innovative and when the Packers were hungrier and much better than their archrivals. And because of it, Cutler left the game 6-of-4 for 80 yards and had a horrible passer rating of 31.8 with one interception, a trait pretty much nerve-racking for Bears fans. Only difference this time is that he bailed on his teammates and coaches, and even more so, he bailed on the fans.

"Hey, I think the urban meyer rule is effect right now...When the going gets tough........QUIT." Maurice Jones-Drew tweeted during the game. "All I'm saying is that he can finish the game on a hurt knee...I played the whole season on one."

Unlike Rodgers, he quit.

Unlike Cutler, Rodgers stayed red hot even though he never had a great game, but a convincing win as one of the top quarterbacks.

Take it from this reaction: "FOX HAVEN'T SHOWED ANY TRAINERS LOOKING AT CUTLER, UMMM," tweeted Derrick Brooks, a former NFL player.

Let us not take anything away from the Packers. They were the better team and wanted it more. From here, the Packers can fly to Dallas for a party and the trophy.

Green Bay Packers-Chicago Bears Rivalry Renewed, Only Bloodier, Meaner

If there's a villain in Chicago, hailed as one of the passionate sports towns in America where the masses gather in the local bar or even crowds Lou Malnati's Pizzeria joint alarmed by the Chicago Bears turnaround, it's the pretentious Jay Cutler. With the entire world watching, as much as Cutler dislikes the spotlight, he is the most annoying athlete in Chicago.

And now, as of lately, he is a risk factor, fully capable of turnovers late in the game with his brash throws that normally results in a disastrous pick. Come now, as if he's the hottest quarterback in the NFL, Aaron Rodgers is well-deserving of plaudits more than Cutler, an emotional griper and softy who takes matters personal and thinks the sport revolves around him all the time. So now, after his eye-opening season, fascinating like never before by his maturity and humbleness in command of the leadership role, Rodgers is on fire and has played with more awareness and consistency.

The other night in Green Bay, where the town is obligated to be grateful for the Packers, obsessive fans were traditionally loyal to its symbolic pro franchise. It's too bad the Cheesehead maniacs won't come together this weekend to launch a tailgate party outside of the historical venue Lambeau Field, since the Packers travel to the Windy City for the much-anticipated NFC Championship.

A side of me cannot stand Cutler, a quarterback bust in Chicago when the fans honestly felt as if he was the cure for the lackluster Bears in a community which has already witnessed long-lasting droughts from the futility and hopelessness that had the entire town depressed deeply by the unending downfalls. Turns out he's not really a cure after all, but instead a franchise bust.


Maybe it's his unnecessary arrogance that bothers me, the I am-better-than-you attitude. Maybe it's because he disdains the media and rebuffs interest in news conferences, although he is willing to provide brief messages. Or maybe it's his personality on the field that bothers me, too. But whatever it is, he's nothing compared to Rodgers, who has widened the smile on faces of the fans in Green Bay, where the city is now called Mr. Rodger's Neighborhood. Years from now, he might even have a street nearby named after him.

What we're observing is Rodgers sprout beyond greatness for the Packers, while his good friend, Cutler deflowers as a firm quarterback. For those who doubt Rodgers, he is arising into a legend before our very eyes, braced as a gifted iconic figure with the intangibles of being the top quarterback in the league. He's just that damn good. Even now, on the verge of the Packers third post-Favre season, Rodgers is the face of the franchise and has improved mightily.

There's no reason for Green Bay homers to miss Brett Favre, dismissed after he kept the Packers hostage with his flip-flopping retirement, toying with general manager Ted Thompson's mind during the draining saga that publicly become worse in the summer months as days progressed. The Packers knew exactly what the intentions were when they shut the doors on Favre and promised the starting job to Rodgers.

With all due respect, for a sizzling passer engineering the Packers amongst one of the longstanding rivalries in sports, he's ready to prosper as a premier quarterback in the league. Let's brace ourselves for Packers versus Bears, an intense matchup from the retro days which lived into the modern era. It's not only Packers versus Bears, but it's also a theatrical quarterback duel with two quarterbacks who are actually good friends. Good friends? Well, for now.

Once, the Packers and Bears storms onto Soldier Filed for a Sunday afternoon matinee in 19 degree weather, with a wind-chill temperature at approximately 10, winds blowing at 10 mph, the matchup itself will turn violent. As always, another bloody war is quickly upon us and it should be appealing to see which team survives by the end. In all, this is Rodgers versus Cutler in one of the watchful duels in ages. This is Capers versus Martz in one of the most eventful offensive and defensive draws in decades. And lastly, this is Matthews versus Urlacher.

The other integral piece for the Packers is defensive coordinator Dom Capers in a game that he'll be battling against the Bears offensive coordinator Mike Martz. With the exception of Martz's play calling and masterful brain for grooming his players, Cutler vastly improved even though he still mistakenly missed his intended receiver or either delivers a poor pass that results into an interception.

And standing in his way is Capers, a fundamental voice of a relentless defense that has been dynamic to Rodgers this season. He was harassed by the Bears bull-rushes, abused literally by Brian Urlacher as all of his target receivers Greg Jennings and Donald Driver were shut down. Surely, he spent time in a hot spa after the Bears defenders sent him to the turf, despite that Rodgers can scramble and buy time in the pocket. Every single defender know he's flexible and versatile with running the ball to gain yardage, and usually, scores whenever he likes as well, racing to the end zone unlike many quarterbacks in the NFL.


Many of them are pocket-passers, not very mobile at avoiding the pressure or smashmouth hits. As we often point out, Rodgers is quick with fabulous feet and a powerful throwing arm, but the Packers' division rivals, which would be the Bears, of course, stifled Green Bay's drives in previous games. Against the Bears in 21 possessions, Rodgers led the Packers to three touchdowns and two field goals, but went scoreless in the other 16 possessions and tossed two picks.

When they play on Sunday, Rodgers could enter the game with an urgent mindset, a moment he'll approach probably the biggest game of his career with a must-win attitude, just as much as Clay Matthews, Green Bay tremendous linebacker, from an inherited football family with a knack that comes from the Matthews' family genes, will play with much strength to interrupt Cutler and the Bears. And so it seems, even better than expected, particularly when the Bears lifted its self-confidence with a win over the improbable Seattle Seahawks, Chicago has the advantage in the hard-driven, defensive front at the line of scrimmage.

More so, the Bears are led by defensive studs Julius Peppers and Israel Idonije. Their presence and strong impact can be the x-factor come Sunday, the one day when everybody must perform at their highest level in order to advance to the Super Bowl. By now, within his five-year career, forgotten and hated by many, he's not a lovable player in the league. He's not popular, but more than anything, is unpopular every since his abrupt departure in Denver.

His arrogance and choosy personality, during a relationship which was in shambles, broke a bond with then-Broncos coach Josh McDaniels. Next thing, the Broncos were forced to trade him to the Bears once the relationship in Denver was irreparable. So he's not as popular as his good friend, Rodgers. This year, he has turned into a worthy legend and has been appreciated with a myriad of popularity as he continuously develops into an authentic star, leading the Packers to a pair of postseason victories on the road in upsets over the Eagles and Falcons.

As for Cutler, he has played with Type I diabetes thought his disappointing career, after he was diagnosed with the illness in 2008. Where he is different from Rodgers is his petulance and frustration on the field. In contrast, he's nowhere near as efficient as Rodgers, and the only way he can enhance his level of dominance, is with a fiery and calm attitude.

It's also imperative that he eliminates making poor decisions on the field, and think wiser as a team leader. At the age 27, a product from Vanderbilt is not even close to matching the talent of Jim McMahon, the star quarterback who led Mike Ditka and the '85 Bears, which reflects on the finest championship and the last time Chicago party with the Bears.

This win is for the right for the Super Bowl. And what better way with much at stake to play against an archenemy. The Bears hate the Packers, just as much as the Packers hate the Bears. It would figure, given his enthusiasm for sports, that President Obama was obviously picking the Bears to win over the Packers. And since we now know he predicted Chicago, his team growing up, we know he'll be glancing at the game in the White House. Hopefully, this doesn't jinx the Bears.

Either way, it's going to be fun, exciting, intense and classic. It's Packers-Bears. It's humbleness versus arrogance. It's Rodgers versus Cutler.

Invulnerable Packers Ripens Into NFL Supremacy

The scenes alone are glaring portraits of why we shouldn't dismiss the implausible Green Bay Packers, a team that emerged onto the field Sunday and played with much emotion and energy. We all know by now, no matter whether the naysayers discount or anoint the cheese-heads, that it's one of the finest franchises in the NFL not to overlook, given their mystique and prior history.

So what, if Aaron Rodgers was in a hostile territory surrounded by thousands of ecstatic Eagles' fans, cheering on the Philadelphia Eagles until the disheartening finish muted the rambunctious crowd. So what if he was on the same field with Michael Vick, arguably the best player in the league amid an unbelievable redemptive story, putting his troubling past behind him deemed as the MVP hopeful. The Packers, were more fierce and hungrier than ever before, tougher by their quarterbacks' presence and growth.


Rodgers conducted and engineered his team to an overjoyed playoff win by his positive mentality, clinching a divisional berth in the postseason, at the venue in Philly that turned into “Mr. Rodgers' Neighborhood” and seemingly the Packers bloomed as the hottest contender in these playoffs.

Any notion that this is a renovation period sound irrelevant, for which Green Bay has returned to eminence. If Rodgers wishes to venture on one of his proudest journeys, if not one of the gratifying pursuits in franchise history, he obviously understood the magnitude of survival and, as a result, outlasted the likable Eagles in a crucial contest.

The visitor's locker room was relentlessly pumped, thrilled for capturing merriment as the Packers encounter the fully-rested Atlanta Falcons in the divisional rounds next weekend. It was a locker room filled of happiness, along with delighted players celebrating like kids in the eruption of endless glee, aroused by Mike McCarthy, the hard-driven coach for giving a fiery speech after an imposing 21-16 win over the Eagles. It turns out that he's not superstitious, after all, but is a likable figure and has been a very savvy coach.

Like always, as the Packers ripened into primary competition for feasibly the Lombardi Trophy in the glamorous game of roman numerals, he observed his players produce in critical situations by his routine playbook and strategic tactics, even though he has taken the share of culpability in the past.

It's not too often, particularly when the Packers are playing brilliantly, that he has an angry outburst on the sideline or behind the scenes and mellowed into a shrewd coach, capable of measuring up to standards for a traditional franchise.

It was the Packers mental toughness, resiliency and aplomb that contributed to their astonishing display, and the reliable rushing attack with the exception of rookie James Starks, not to mention Rodgers' scintillating performance.

These days, such as the inexplicable transition late in the season to qualify for the postseason in the final game of the regular-season, it seems the Packers are fundamentally sound and fearless. It's abundantly clear, by now, that the Packers can potentially be crowned Super Bowl champs in the end, surrounded by weaponry of talent and intelligence.

In the game, the Packers were wiser and a bit more talented winning in convincingly eliminating the Eagles. With less than a minute remaining in a nail-bitter, as Vick had led a remarkable drive to nearly secure the game-winner, he was picked off by Green Bay safety Tramon Williams and sadly stained a wonderful season for the Eagles.


A quarterback as dominant as Rodgers, leading the Packers with heart and vigor regardless of the hearsay about road woes, nonetheless orchestrates drives efficiently, although he suffered concussions twice this season. Without him, the Packers aren't nearly as effective or dangerous. Without him, they are vulnerable to collapse in what could be one of the most intriguing postseasons in a long time, with the improbable Seahawks in the playoff picture when Seattle unbelievably and impossibly stunned the football world in a win over the Saints. However, if he continues to play sharply, the Packers can absolutely be ebullient and relentless that no team on the universe or during the postseason for that matter would desire to face for their monstrous approach to embarrass opponents.

Basically, if the Packers perform with equilibrium and produce an over-matched running game, then Green Bay will clearly be no match, already viewed as a tough ouster after the first-round appearance probably dictated fate and progression. As far as we know, for now anyway, the Packers are tenacious and invulnerable of disappointing the cheesehead faithful with minds set on winning it all, led by an NFL icon and symbolic legend in the post-Favre era.

That is Rodgers, of course, the face of the Packers and he has proven to be the next legendary star of a franchise that has a product of notable megastars. So with evidence of acknowledging such a marvel team, which has cemented promise in a season of unpredictability and mystic, the Packers are scarier and alive to accept the challenge of unforeseen showdowns, at time when much is on the line. From here on out, all games is sudden death.

"Aaron Rodgers is as good as any out-of-the-pocket quarterback there is in football history," McCarthy said. "His ability in the pocket, trusting his footwork, the time clock, the ability to come out of the pocket to buy time, that's Aaron strength. He has the arm strength to make all the throws. He gives you a lot of versatility as a play caller and as an offensive schemer. Now with his experience, he's a special player."

It's what all of Green Bay, including the Packers know. The expectations, as usual, are immense for them as well, simply for being the symbol of NFL franchises, one of the most popular teams many people root for. As Rodgers established himself as one of the best quarterbacks in the league, his teammate, Starks, emerged as a rookie running back. For most of the game, he was immersed in the rushing schemes, dangerous in midfield by exploiting his speed to alleviate pressure and a dauntless task off Rodgers.

He rushed for 123 yards and had nifty footwork to take over the foot race in Philly, all when the Packers are flirting with NFC prominence and when Rodgers is absorbing the spotlight more than Chicago's Jay Cutler or Atlanta's Matt Ryan. With the defensive effort of the monstrous forces, such as Clay Matthews and Charles Woodson, the Packers blistering defense only allowed Vick to run for 33 yards and throw for 292 yards.

Throughout the season, he has played composed and with assurance to guide the Packers, handling the expectations of quartering back Green Bay in Favre's footsteps. The reality of this is that Rodgers is just as solid in the pocket, calm and firm in the pocket. Almost unnoticed during his breakout party, a cumulative measure of greatness, he danced in the pocket to buy time and quickly released completed passes with pure accuracy and awareness. Early on, he was 8 of 13 on third-down conversion plays, and the Packers overall were three for three in the red zone.

So now, it's off to the Georgia Dome, a venue where the Packers suffered a heartbreaker in a close lost back in November. By avenging the dreadful loss, he travels to Chicago for a clash against his foes, or either could play Seattle. By the end of the night, though, Rodgers was a pleased man with incredible Super Bowl goals.

The Lombardi Trophy may reside in Mr. Rodger's Neighborhood.

Pac-10 Football: Fielding a Competitive NFL Team Made From Conference Alumni

The Pac-10 has brought in a number of talented players over the years. Some are big names and some are just making names for themselves, but if the Pac-10 alumni were to assemble a current NFL roster of 53 players, would it be a competitive team? Yes. 

But, what would that team look like? What would be the the strengths and weaknesses? There are currently 145 Pac-10 alumni in the NFL currently, and so here's an attempt to answer those questions and more.

Aaron Rodgers got to study under Brett Favre before he got a chance to start, which helped him progress much more quickly than other young quarterbacks in the league with limited starting experience. Rodgers is now amongst the top four quarterbacks in the league. 

He has a career record of 20-16 but has appeared in a total of 43 games. He has thrown for 9,741 yards, 67 touchdowns to 26 interceptions, and has a completion percentage of 64.4 percent.

He has been to one Pro Bowl so far.

Carson Palmer would probably have been the starter if it were a couple of years ago, but ever since he had the bad knee injury against the Steelers in the 2005 playoffs he hasn't been as good as he once was. He still is an above average quarterback, but not at an elite level that Rodgers has gotten to now. 

In Palmer's career, which has been over seven years, he has a record of 44-41, thrown for 19,802 yards, 133 touchdowns to 83 interceptions, and has completed 63 percent of his passes. 

He's also been to the Pro Bowl twice.

Derek Anderson has never had good luck in the NFL as he was selected by the Cleveland Browns in the sixth round of the 2005 NFL Draft. He saw action in his rookie season, but it wasn't until his third year that he blossomed, guiding the Browns to a record of 10-5 in his starts in 2007, but that wasn't good enough for the Browns and eventually he was released. 

He was signed by the Arizona Cardinals to replace the retired Kurt Warner and the season hasn't gone as well as Anderson hoped. Part of that is because there's no running game in Arizona and their second best receiver Anquan Boldin was traded in the offseason. 

In Anderson's time as a starter he has a record of 18-20, thrown for 7,727 yards, 49 touchdowns and 50 interceptions, completed 52.8 percent of his passes, and has been to one Pro Bowl.

Steven Jackson has been pretty much the only offense the St. Louis Rams have had in recent years, but when he is healthy he is a beast and defenses respect what he can do because he is a load to bring down. He is one of the last of the remaining workhorse backs in the NFL, meaning he takes a majority of the Rams carries. 

He is now in his seventh year with the Rams and so far he has 1,621 carries for 6,991 yards, 42 touchdowns, 4.3 yards per carry average, 79.4 yards per game rushing, and also has 293 receptions for 2,403 yards, seven touchdowns, and averages 29 yards per game receiving. 

He has been to two Pro Bowls in his career and is attempting to have his sixth straight 1,000-yard season.

One of the truly under appreciated players in the NFL, Karney is an excellent blocker, but can also be utilized both as a receiver and also getting the occasional carry. 

In his career so far he has caught 62 passes for 317 yards, two touchdowns, 5.1 yards per catch, and 43 carries for 91 yards, 2.1 yards per attempt, and five touchdowns. 

Has yet to be named to the Pro Bowl. 

Chad Ochocinco has been amongst the best receivers in the NFL for a while now. Pretty good for a receiver who didn't put up gaudy numbers at Oregon State. He's known for his vibrant personality, but he can also make plays on the football field. 

In 141 games he has caught 707 passes for 10,248 yards, a 14.5 yards per catch average, 63 touchdowns, averages 72.7 yards per game, and also has 24 carries for 175 yards.

He's been to the Pro Bowl six times and named a First Team All-Pro twice.

Desean Jackson is now in his third year in the league, his second year in the league was special as he tied an NFL record with eight touchdowns that went for over 50 yards. When he came out of California the knock on him was his lack of height, but he has made up for that with his speed. 

In 35 games he has caught 141 passes for 2,416 yards, 13 touchdowns, 17.1 yards per catch average, 69 yards per game average, and also has 31 carries for 248 yards, and two touchdowns. 

Has made one Pro Bowl so far in his brief career. 

Tony Gonzalez will go down as the greatest tight end in NFL history. The only year he did not start was his rookie year, so now he's working on his 13th straight season where he has put up solid numbers from the tight end position. 

He has played in 210 games has 1,018 catches for 12,012 yards, 11.8 yards per catch, 83 touchdowns, and averages 57.2 yards per game. 

Gonzalez has been to 10 Pro Bowls and been selected five times as a First Team All-Pro selection.

Not nearly as prolific on the receiving end as Tony Gonzalez, Todd Heap has had a solid career both receiving and blocking. He has been a starter for now for 10 seasons and has caught 444 passes for 5,081 yards, 11.4 yards per catch average, 36 touchdowns, and 41 yards per game average. 

Heap has twice made the Pro Bowl.

Zach Miller would be in the same category as Dallas Clark and Owen Daniels, but he plays on the Oakland Raiders, a team perpetually known for its losing and not being in too many games. Unfortunately, for Miller he doesn't get enough attention as he deserves because he's an excellent receiver at the tight end position. 

He's now in his fourth year and so far he has caught 188 passes for 2,305 yards, 12.3 yards per catch, nine touchdowns, and 45.2 yards per game. 

Has not been selected to the Pro Bowl, although his time will come. 

Adam Snyder is a versatile linemen that can play either the guard or tackle position. Since he has that versatility he would be the starter as the left tackle, although he started out as a backup lineman for the 49ers he has now become part of the lineup for them. 

He has three years of starting experience and is now in his sixth year.

Kyle Kosier would be the starter at left guard, as he plays multiple positions as well. He has appeared in 114 games in eight seasons, so his experience would be beneficial.

Olin Kreutz has been one of the better centers in the NFL for years. He is now in his 13th season in the league and has been a starter for the last 12 seasons. 

He has been to six Pro Bowls and has been a First Team All-Pro selection.

Deuce Lutui adds size to the line at 6'3", 340. He's been a starter for the Arizona Cardinals all of his five years in the NFL. He has yet to make a Pro Bowl, but he is a solid right guard.

Winston Justice is a young right tackle with only one year of starting experience, and he has been in the league for four years now. So, he has some experience going into this season at the tackle position.

Ryan Kalil would be the backup center to Kreutz as he is a young center. He is now in his fourth season and has been to one Pro Bowl.

Eric Heitmann has played all over the line for the 49ers. He has found his home at center, but can play left guard or right guard if he is needed. He adds versatility to the line as a backup.

Ebon Britton started from day one with the Jacksonville Jaguars and he will be a solid tackle. He would be the one challenging Justice for the starting spot.

The starting lineup for the offense looks like this: 

QB: Rodgers

RB: S. Jackson

FB: Karney

WR: Ocho Cinco

WR: D. Jackson

TE: Gonzalez

LT: Snyder

LG: Kosier

C: Kreutz

RG: Lutui

RT: Justice

Haloti Ngata is a big reason why the Baltimore Ravens defense plays the run so well. He takes up a lot of space at 6'4", 335 and with his big body it allows holes for his linebackers to make plays on running backs. He's now in his fifth year and has started since his rookie season.

In his career so far he has 144 tackles, eight and a half sacks, three interceptions, 11 passes defended, two forced fumbles, and one fumble recovery. 

He has one Pro Bowl selection.

Brandon Mebane is a little more athletic than Ngata, hence why he has more sacks in less time. His athleticism allows him to stop the run, but also get after the quarterback. 

In his career he has 98 tackles, 10 sacks, two passes defended, two forced fumbles, and two fumble recoveries. 

Has yet to make a Pro Bowl.

Mike Patterson would be the backup defensive tackle. He is better on the the pass rush as he is a little bit undersized for a defensive tackle at 5'11", 292, but is able to get to the quarterback. He is now in his sixth year with the Eagles. 

In his career so far he has 206 tackles, 11 sacks, one interception, five passes defended, three forced fumbles, five fumble recoveries, and one fumble recovered for a touchdown.

Tank Johnson has had some issues with maturity, but when he has been on the field for the Bears he has been a productive member on defense when playing. Eventually the Bears got tired of his antics and he got a second chance with the Dallas Cowboys, and he's now with the Bengals. He did not start until his second year in the league and in total he has played seven seasons. 

In his career he has 91 tackles, 14 sacks, seven passes defended, two forced fumbles, and a fumble recovery.

Andre Carter is a versatile player as he can go from being a defensive end an outside linebacker. He fits perfectly in a 3-4 scheme. 

He is now in his 10th season in the league and has a total of 322 tackles, 64.5 sacks, 24 passes defended, 15 forced fumbles, and three fumble recoveries. 

Carter has not made a Pro Bowl.

Olshansky can play against the run as well as the pass and has a motor that doesn't quit. He is now in his seventh season in the NFL. 

In his career he has 145 tackles, 12.5 sacks, one interception, six passes defended, two forced fumbles, and one fumble recovery. 

Kenyon Coleman is now in his eighth year in the NFL and he is a valuable backup with starting experience. 

In his career he has 194 tackles, 11 sacks, five passes defended, two forced fumbles, three fumble recoveries, and a tackle for a safety.

Terrell Suggs, like Carter, can play either outside linebacker or defensive end. In this case he's the outside linebacker. Suggs at Arizona State set a NCAA record for most sacks in a season and he hasn't looked back since arriving in the NFL. 

In eight years he has 320 tackles, 60 sacks, five interceptions, two of those interceptions were returned for touchdowns, 36 passes defended, 17 fumbles forced, and 11 fumble recoveries. 

Suggs has three Pro Bowl selections.

One of the truly more under appreciated linebackers in the NFL. He is an excellent tackler and can be used on a blitz to get to the quarterback. He is now in his ninth year in the league and has started in every season that he has been in the league. 

So far he has 533 tackles, 20.5 sacks, five interceptions, 22 passes defended, 10 forced fumbles, and three fumble recoveries. 

He has yet to make a Pro Bowl.

Lance Briggs is one of the more dominant linebackers in the NFL. A few years ago the 49ers got in trouble with tampering with him as it looked like the Bears weren't going to keep Briggs after he was designated as the franchise player, but he re-signed with the Bears. 

He is now in his eighth year and so far he has 657 tackles, eight and a half sacks, 11 interceptions, three of those interceptions returned for a touchdown, 56 passes defended, nine forced fumbles, seven fumble recoveries, and one of the fumbles recovered for a touchdown. 

Briggs' is a five time Pro Bowl selection and has one First Team All-Pro selection.

Clay Matthews has continued where he left off in his rookie year. He is an excellent pass rusher and at the start of the season in his first two games he had six sacks! 

So far in just over a season he has 54 tackles, 17 sacks, eight passes defended, two forced fumbles, three fumble recoveries, and one fumble recovery returned for a touchdown. 

In his rookie year he was named to the Pro-Bowl as well.

When Lofa Tatupu is healthy, he is the heart and soul of the Seattle Seahawks defense. The past couple of seasons he has been injured and the Seahawks defense missed his presence at the middle linebacker position. 

In his career he has 370 tackles, seven and a half sacks, nine interceptions, one of the interceptions returned for a touchdown, 33 passes defended, six forced fumbles, and two fumble recoveries. 

He's been selected to three Pro Bowls and also has one First Team All-Pro selection.

Brian Cushing was the Defensive Rookie of the Year, but unfortunately was suspended for the first four game for a failed drug test. He is one of the better young linebackers in the NFL. 

So far he has 86 tackles, four sacks, four interceptions, 10 passes defended, two forced fumbles, and a tackle of a safety. 

Cushing like his former USC teammate Matthews made the Pro Bowl in his rookie season.

Tully Banta-Cain is a outside linebacker that is known for one thing, getting after the quarterback. He has played a majority of his career with the New England Patriots, and spent two years with the San Fancisco 49ers where he was used as effectively and his numbers dipped.

In his eight-year career, he has 142 tackles, 24 sacks, one interception, five passes defended, three forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries, and one fumble recovery was for a touchdown.

Nick Barnett is a solid middle linebacker and has been in the league for eight years with the Green Bay Packers. 

In his career he has 574 tackles, 15.5 sacks, nine interceptions, one interception returned for a touchdown, 36 passes defended, two forced fumbles, and seven fumble recoveries.

Nnamdi Asomugha is one of the taller corners in the NFL at 6'3" and because of his reputation as being one of the best corners in the league, teams steer clear of throwing towards him. He is now in his eighth year with the Oakland Raiders. 

In his career he has 259 tackles, two sacks, 11 interceptions, one interception returned for a touchdown, 58 passes defended, two forced fumbles, and one fumble recoveries. 

Asomugha is a two time Pro-Bowl selection and has one First Team All-Pro selection.

Troy Polamalu, when he is healthy, is one of the most dominating defensive players in the NFL. Not only is he adept at stopping the run from his strong safety position, but he plays the pass just as well. 

In his eight-year career he has 359 tackles, seven sacks, 22 interceptions, one of the interceptions returned for a touchdown, 70 passes defended, seven fumbles forced, three fumble recoveries, and one fumble recovered for a touchdown. 

Polamalu is a five-time Pro Bowler and twice selected as a First Team All-Pro selection. 

O.J. Atogwe was amongst the top free agents this year, but eventually re-signed with the St. Louis Rams. He is a playmaker on defense as well. He is now in his sixth year in the NFL. 

His numbers so far 291 tackles, three sacks, 19 interceptions, one returned for a touchdown, 34 passes defended, 15 forced fumbles, eight fumble recoveries, and one fumble recovered for a touchdown.

Marcus Trufant is also a defensive player who doesn't get as much attention as he should get. He's a terrific corner who makes plays for the Seattle Seahawk defense. 

He is in his eighth year as well and has 471 tackles, two sacks, 20 interceptions, two of those interceptions were returned for a touchdown, 102 passes defended, three forced fumbles, and three fumble recoveries. 

Trufant has been to one Pro Bowl so far in his career.

Terrell Thomas is now in his third season as a cornerback. He started all 16 games in his second year, so the New York Giants have confidence in him and he did not disappoint.  

So far in his career he has 116 tackles, a sack, eight interceptions, one returned for a touchdown, 22 passes defended, three forced fumbles, and one fumble recovery. 

Thomas could see a Pro Bowl in his future as well

Antoine Cason has quickly made a name for himself with the San Diego Chargers. He is the one that made Antonio Cromartie expendable. He is now in his third season and is a starting corner for the Chargers. 

So far he has 98 tackles, six interceptions, one returned for a touchdown, 16 passes defended, and two forced fumbles. 

Has not been to a Pro Bowl, although he may see one soon. 

Justin Tryon is a solid backup and can be used on special teams as well. He has made two starts in his three year career. 

So far he has 22 tackles, one sack, one interception, four passes defended, and one fumble recovery.

Erik Coleman can play either safety position and would make a good backup. He's now in his seventh year in the league. 

So far he has made 424 tackles, two sacks, 10 interceptions, 34 passes defended, four forced fumbles, and one fumble recovery.

Chris Horton is a big hitter from the strong safety position, but he also can make plays in passing situations as well. He's now in his third year and he got a majority of his playing time in his rookie year as he sustained an injury and only played in eight games. 

So far he has 80 tackles, a sack, three interceptions, eight passes defended, one forced fumble, and two fumble recoveries.

Thomas Decoud is a free safety that can make plays in the secondary, on running plays, and on special teams. He is now in his third year with the Atlanta Falcons. 

So far he has 73 tackles, two sacks, four interceptions, eight passes defended, two forced fumbles, and one fumble recovery.

The starting defense of the All Pac-10 team would be: 

DT: Ngata

DT: Mebane

DE: Carter

LOLB: Suggs

LILB: Fujita

RILB: Briggs

ROLB: Matthews

LCB: Asomugha

SS: Polamalu

FS: Atogwe

RCB: Trufant

Even though he is the number two receiver, Jackson would also have his duty of returning punts. His speed makes him dangerous anytime he touches the ball and it has showed. 

For his career so far he has 86 punt returns for 930 yards, three touchdowns, and averages 10.8 yards per return. 

The only competition for Jackson was Reggie Bush, but in a shorter amount of time Jackson has had more returns, more yards, and averages more per return. Bush has one more touchdown than Jackson though.

Justin Forsett has returned 36 kickoffs for 854 yards, has a long of 46, and averages 23.7 yards per return. He could also be used as the fourth running back. 

Maurice Jones-Drew before 2009 returned kickoffs. He did an excellent job at it as well. In his career he had 79 returns for 2,054 yards, a long of 100 yards, two returned for touchdowns, and averaged 26 yards per return.

Jason Hanson has been in the NFL for 19 years and hence why he beat out Nick Folk for the kicker spot. In his career he has made 433 field goals has attempted 530, which is good for 81.7 percent. He's made 562 extra points while attempting 570, good for 98.6 percent, and in a pinch he's also able to punt the football.

He has 12 punts in his career that have gone for 416 yards, a long of 50, and has averaged 34.7 yards per punt.

Nick Harris was a tremendous punter while playing for California, and that has translated to his success in the NFL. He's had an 11-year career so far.

He has punted 735 times for 31,034 yards, a long of 67, had four blocked, and averages 42.2 yards per punt.

Here's the starting lineup for both sides of the ball:

QB: Rodgers

RB: S. Jackson

FB: Karney

WR: Ochocinco

WR: D. Jackson

TE: Gonzalez

LT: Snyder

LG: Kosier

C: Kreutz

RG: Lutui

RT: Justice

P: Harris

K: Hanson

DT: Ngata

DT: Mebane

DE: Carter

LOLB: Suggs

LILB: Fujita

RILB: Briggs

ROLB: Matthews

LCB: Asomugha

SS: Polamalu

FS: Atogwe

RCB: Trufant