Favre continues his un-retirement in Minnesota, where Coach Brad Childress hopes the QB will keep his team playing in January (Bob Levey -- Getty Images)

Everything Begins Under Center in Minnesota

The pressure is on Coach Brad Childress to make a deep playoff run in Minnesota, which is why the Vikings signed Brett Favre. The future Hall of Fame quarterback was inconsistent with the New York Jets last season. Offseason surgery might help, as will elite running back Adrian Peterson and one of the league's best offensive lines.

The defense consistently has been among the top in the NFL. The pending four-game suspensions of defensive tackles Kevin and Pat Williams would be a big blow if they occur.

Defensive end Jared Allen appeared worthy of his big contract last season, and cornerback Antoine Winfield helps steady the secondary.

But the season will come down to the Favre signing, which can only be measured by how deep into January - and perhaps February - the Vikings last.

-- Zach Berman

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