NFL Game Of The Week: Green Bay Packers (10-5) vs. Minnesota Vikings (10-5)

It all comes down to this. Two battle hardened franchises that are hungry for a division title will duel it out in a defensive grudge match that should be captivating from start to finish.

That's right, I said it. Despite Green Bay having one of the premiere passers in the game on their side, they'll have to rely on their physical running game (118.3 RYPG 10th in NFL) and stout defense (20.2 PAPG 10th in NFL) for a much needed victory. This is not to say that Aaron Rodgers isn't a crucial factor in how this game will play out.

In the Packers deflating 38-8 loss to the Arizona Cardinals, Rodgers looked completely lost as his demoralized offense couldn't penetrate a dominant Cardinals defense. Throwing for just 151 yards while completing only 53.6% his passes, the once pass happy quarterback appeared to regress beyond the point of just having a bad game.

Bearing that in mind, the Packers will have to lean on an inconsistent albeit physical running game to take some pressure off of their distraught quarterback. Although running back Eddie Lacy has been a shell of his former self this season, he still has the athleticism and strength to break out for some big yardage plays. Although back up runner James Starks has been a somewhat effective rusher in his own right, his presence as a dual threat receiver out of the backfield has given this offense some much needed versatility.

For the Vikings, their keys to claiming a division title will be predicated on their smash mouth defense (19.3 PAPG, 6th in NFL) and relentless running game (137.3 RYPG, 5th in NFL). Of course, the Vikings potent running game will only be effective if Adrian Peterson gets into a rhythm. Between his 10 TD's on the season and over 1,400 rushing yards, Peterson has appeared to have rediscovered his knack for running all over opposing defenses.

Beyond that, the Vikings will also need to rely on the impressive decision making skills of quarterback Teddy Bridgewater to keep this offense clicking on all cylinders. While Bridgewater has only thrown for 14 TD's on the season, his poise as a legitimate pocket passer (65.9 CMP%) makes him a methodically gifted quarterback that can extend drives by utilizing his patience and keen vigilance to find an open receiver

In the end, the Vikings shot at redemption in a do or die division battle royale can't be denied as their versatility on both offense and defense has been a sight to behold. However, the Packers have arguably the one of the best passers in the game along with a fairly formidable defense of their own. Although it will be hard fought affair from beginning to end, the unwavering determination of Rodgers will be just enough for the Packers to clinch the NFC North.

Packers 24 Vikings 23