Irony, a twist of fate or just poetic justice? Call it what you want, but while Brett Favre’s return is dripping with revenge and the lust to beat his former team, the questions remain: How much does Favre improve the Vikings, and how will the Green Bay Packers compete against their former savior?

No one within the Vikings organization knows for sure just how far the aging quarterback can take their team, or just how long he will last into the season. Even while he was able to avoid training camp and the wear and tear which would cause fatigue on his surgically repaired arm, Favre is willing to roll the dice and find out for sure how much he has left in the tank.

Despite all he has done in his legendary career, not even the great Favre is sure how it will end.

The team Favre spent 16 years leading and guiding probably knows the answers to those questions far better than anyone in Minnesota. In fact, the Packers’ intimate knowledge of Favre gives them a decisive edge in their quest to recapture the division crown. Packers defensive coordinator Dom Capers is a highly-intelligent coach who will use players familiar with the foibles of their former teammate. In Capers’ new 3-4 scheme, CBs Charles Woodson and Al Harris will line up with a clear view of the quarterback more than ever. That advantage, combined with a Capers game plan tailored to Favre, means the Packers will most likely improve on their NFC-leading 22 interceptions from a year ago. Ironically, Favre led the league last season with the same interception total.

Favre’s arrival in Minnesota could divide one locker room and unify another. In the beginning, coaches, players and fans will be swept up in euphoria with the coming of Lord Favre. But with every pass thrown to the opponent, euphoria will give way to doubt. With every interception and turnover, those who now hail Favre’s arrival will question his level of commitment to the team, and his willingness to bond with his teammates.

As a divisional opponent, each misstep and mistake by Favre is a step in the right direction for the Packers. His failure will be their success, and vice versa. Throughout the season this will be a story worth watching.

The lessons of revenge are taught on playgrounds everyday. The lesson is very simple: BE CAREFUL WHAT YOU ASK FOR.

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