NFC NORTH Glance
Minnesota Vikings at Green Bay Packers:
Kickoff: Sunday, 1 p.m., Fox
Introduction: The start of Favre's farewell tour? Green Bay quarterback Brett Favre is back after contemplating retirement over the summer.
Plot: The Packers still believe they're one of the class teams of the NFC as long as Favre plays. But the key to Green Bay's season will be Ahman Green, who rushed for 1,240 yards last season. Minnesota still has Daunte Culpepper and Randy Moss, which always makes the Vikings a threat. With the addition of middle linebacker Chris Claiborne, Minnesota's defense should be much better.
Bottom line: If the Vikings can run the ball with Moe Williams and Onterrio Smith, this could be the upset special of the day, or at least a closer game than most people expect.
Arizona Cardinals at Detroit Lions:
Kickoff: Sunday, 1 p.m., Fox
Introduction: Familiar faces in new places. Michigan native Steve Mariucci will make his coaching debut with the Lions and running back Emmitt Smith and quarterback Jeff Blake will play their first game for the Cardinals.
Plot: Mariucci takes over a team that struggled to a 3-9 record last season when rookie quarterback Joey Harrington was the starter.
Bottom line: Mariucci is one of the best coaches around when it comes to getting the most out of his players and the Lions should be ready to take it to the Cardinals in their home opener.
Chicago Bears at San Francisco 49ers:
Kickoff: Sunday, 4:15 p.m., Fox.
Introduction: Gimpy Garcia. San Francisco quarterback Jeff Garcia has had a difficult exhibition season because of health problems, but he'll try to shake them off against the Bears.
Plot: Under new Coach Dennis Erickson, the 49ers will be more of a running team with backs Garrison Hearst and Kevan Barlow. This will not go over well with receiver Terrell Owens if he's not thrown the ball enough.
Bottom line: Don't be surprised to see Stewart have a huge day passing to receivers Marty Booker, David Terrell and Dez White against the 49ers' suspect secondary.