Black and Blue Divison Turning Glitzy

After years of being depicted as a division of stodgy, ground-controlled running attacks and dominant defenses, the NFC North is rapidly becoming the playground for strong-armed, gun-slinging quarterbacks.    The Bears’ blockbuster trade for Jay Cutler and the Lions’ selection of Matthew Stafford as the top overall draft pick, coupled with Aaron Rodgers' presence in Green Bay, has turned this once conservative group into potentially, a wide-open aerial circus.   If Brett Favre, as many expect, announces his un-retirement, the “black and blue” division will arguably boast as fine a quarterback quartet as any in the NFL.   The offseason maneuvers should make for an interesting division race. The defending champion Vikings return a solid nucleus, led by standout RB Adrian Petersen, sack artist Jared Allen, and defenders Pat and Kevin Williams.   Minnesota’s key additions include the acquisition of quarterback Sage Rosenfels and the ... (link)