NFC Dominance.

This Thursday we will see which of the NFC’s two 10-1 teams has the edge, as the Green Bay Packers head to Dallas to face off against the Cowboys. The Cowboys entered this season as the favorite of many to control the NFC. With exciting young quarterback Tony Romo surrounded by numerous weapons including receiver Terrell Owens, plus a solid defense, the success of the Cowboys has been a surprise to no one. The Packers came into the season on the opposite side of the spectrum. Coming off an 8-8 season, and an offseason that saw the departure of longtime running back Ahman Green, many expected the young and relatively inexperienced Green Bay team to have another mediocre season.

Unexpectedly, the Pack have put together a remarkle run through the first 12 weeks of the season, and currently sit in great playoff position atop the NFC North. Brett Favre, the ageless wonder, has put together a spectacular season. With the emergence of receivers Greg Jennings and James Jones, combined with the continued excellence of veteran Donald Driver, the Packers passing attack has become a force to be reckoned with. With the recent resurgence of the running game, headlined by great efforts by young running back Ryan Grant, the Packer’s balanced offense finds itself ranked third in the NFL in yards per game and fifth in scoring. Look for Favre and the Packers to control the time of possession battle with the run and intermediate passing game.

Dallas’ offense is headed by Tony Romo, whose gunslinging mentality has drawn countless comparisons to the Brett Favre of old. Romo enjoys the benefit of outspoken star receiver Terrell Owens and tight end Jason Witten. While the Packers hungry young defense is tough, expect the secondary to struggle against Dallas’ receiving corp. Rookie safety Aaron Rouse has been a decent replacement for the injured Nick Collins, while Atari Bigby has been a penalty machine at the strong safety position. Combine this liability at safety with the toe injury of cornerback Charles Woodson, and the Packers defensive backs look to be in for a long day. Expect Green Bay to bring pressure with their talented front seven to lessen the burden on their depleted secondary.

Prediction: Green Bay 28, Dallas 24