Aaron Rodgers had a great season in 2008. People in Northern Wisconsin didn't want lose Brett Favre a year ago, but this kid from Northern California is going to get better. Thanks to Favre passing the torch to Rodgers.
Rodgers grew in Chico, California and excelled at Pleasant Valley high school, but didn't get many offers from Division 1 schools. Declined a scholarship from then Illinois coach Ron Turner to play in Champaign. Staying local to play for Butte College, there he was discovered by California coach Jeff Tedford.
Transfering to California in 2003, he was the starter after 5th game and never lost the position. Rodgers led the Golden Bears to an 8-6 record in his first year, including a win over Matt Leinart led USC.
In 2004 season his last in Berkeley, expectations were high for both Rodgers with multiple pre-season awards. The team finished 11-2 but were snubbed by Texas for a Rose Bowl berth.
Entering the 2005 draft, experts were amazed with his arm strength and field awareness. Some say the San Francisco 49ers (who were drafting first) should of picked Rodgers, but selected Alex Smith (flop) out of Utah. Rodgers would fall down to 24th selection by the Green Bay Packers.
In Green Bay it was thought that Favre was a year away from retirement. Ultimately, he was tutored by one of the greatest quarterbacks that has ever played. With that lesson we witness flashes of brilllance last season (08-09) 28 TD's and only 14 INT.
Overall if Rodgers and the Pack can get in rhythm with their running game (Ryan Grant) and the defense holds up, this team can reach the Super Bowl!
Read my NFL bog daily on scoreonair.com
Craig A. Ward, host of Chalk Talk
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