Super Bowl 2011: Aaron Rodgers' Golden Opportunity

It is very easy for Aaron Rodgers to sit down and gloat about his Super Bowl berth, but that just wouldn't be Aaron Rodgers.

With the media frenzy unraveling in front of him, with the whole world hanging on his every word, he had the opportunity to stick it to Brett Favre, but that is not him.

When asked if this was a game for vindication, he looked at the reporter and stated, "That is not my motivation."

Why should it be?

Aaron Rodgers backed up Brett Favre for three years; they undoubtedly became close friends. It is safe to say that Rodgers would not be in the position he is at the moment without the guidance that Favre provided.

Denying the talent that Aaron has would be stupid of me, but to say that he would be just as good at this moment without the guidance of Favre would be another stupid comment. There comes a time when the protégé becomes better than the mentor, and that time is now.

Let's not forget that over 20 teams passed on Aaron Rodgers in 2005. Everyone obviously saw something that made them back away from Rodgers. The Packers did not back away and allowed Favre to groom Aaron into their quarterback of today and the future.

Of course, not everyone believes Aaron when he states how he feels about the Brett Favre situation, but let's cut him some slack. It cannot be easy to replace a legend like Favre.

The laid-back style in which he talked to the media on Tuesday was also extraordinary. It felt like he had been here before. The rest of the NFL should be very afraid. This guy is looking very comfortable in this seat; dethroning him will be a very difficult task. 

Rodgers now has an opportunity to write his own story. He has the opportunity to tie Favre for Super Bowls won. He already successfully replaced Favre and in incredible fashion. The people of Green Bay no longer miss No. 4, and why should they?

They have another winner leading their beloved Packers.