Aaron Rodgers fed into the frenzy and added a little prediction for 2011. The Green Bay quarterback did it all with one line to an adoring, and freezing, crowd.
“We’re gonna be right back here next year doing the exact same thing,” Rodgers said.
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Don’t bet on it. Then again, knowing what they have back, how can you bet against it?
And when it comes to the 2011 season, the favorites already are listed, thanks to Bodog.com and Sportsbook.com.
New England
Why they’re listed » Because they have Tom Brady and Bill Belichick as well as six draft picks in the first 100. New England has won a combined 51 regular-season games the past four years.
The issue » The Patriots have bombed in the past two playoffs, partly because their offensive line has been exposed and they lack defensive playmakers.
Green Bay
Why they’re listed » You watched Sunday, right? They’re young, have an elite quarterback, defensive playmakers and return several key players from injury, including tight end Jermichael Finley. Sportsbook lists them first.
The issue » Only three teams have repeated in the past 20 years: Dallas (1993-94), Denver (1998-99) and New England (2004-05).
Pittsburgh
Why they’re listed » An explosive passing game and an elite defense. Mike Tomlin, not even 40, already has coached in two Super Bowls.
The issue » Seven of the last 10 Super Bowl losers have missed the postseason the following year. The Steelers missed the playoffs after each of their two recent Super Bowl appearances.
San Diego
Why they’re listed » They were No. 1 in total offense and total defense. They also have one of the best young quarterbacks in Philip Rivers.
The issue » Norv Turner. Sorry, it’s hard to imagine a team coached by Turner ever winning a Super Bowl. Really, it is. They also have a horrible special teams unit and missed the playoffs.
Indianapolis
Why they’re listed » They have Peyton Manning. They play in a division that lacks another legit contender. (Baltimore and the New York Jets were right with the Colts according to the oddsmakers).
The issue » Their defense wasn’t dominant and their running game was a non-factor. Fix the defense and they can jump higher on this list.
