MVN: Most Valuable Network

In a new feature here on Thoughts from the Dark Side, I will be doing a short Q&A with a blogger representing the other side. This is not an original idea, I stole it from former MVN.com writer Dan Benton who now writes on the Chiefs on AOL Fanhouse. This week's installment was conducted with Nate Carey of the Frozen Tundra, the Packer site here on MVN.com.

Thoughts from the Dark Side: Will Brett Favre be starting this week, and if so how do you think his injury will affect him and if not how do you feel about Aaron Rodgers's chances for success against Oakland?

Frozen Tundra: Brett Favre will start. His injury is considered nothing important, nearly a bruised muscle on his right arm. Personally I find it doubtful that the injury will affect Favre, who played an entire season with a broken right thumb.

Thoughts from the Dark Side: The Pack is one of the top teams in the NFC and coming off of a major battle with Dallas, could this be a trap game for them against 4-8 Oakland?

Frozen Tundra: I suppose it could be a trap game, but I don't believe that McCarthy is looking ahead at anyone else. Returning to Lambeau is a big help, and I'd expect the Packers, especially the defense, to come out with something to prove.

Thoughts from the Dark Side: Where do you see the key matchups for this game?

Frozen Tundra: To me the key matchup is going to be the lines. If the Packers can stop the Raiders from running the ball, as they have done for most of the season, that should really hurt Oakland. I'm guessing Fargas will be the feature back, and if they can stop him, the Packers should enjoy success.

Likewise on offense, Green Bay has to slow down Oakland's pass rush, and give Favre time to throw. Oakland's defense is pretty good, and a lot of GB fans will be surprised considering Oakland's record.

Thoughts from the Dark Side: Predict the outcome of the game.

Frozen Tundra: Of course I am predicting a Packer victory, but I can easily see the game being much closer than everyone thinks. If GB can stop the run and give Favre time, I see a 24-9 win. If not, then a low scoring affair could be in order, resulting in a 13-10 victory.

I would like to thank Nate Carey of Frozen Tundra for taking the time to answer these questions. Here's to a good game with no injuries.