Packers vs. Bears: X-Factor for Each Team in Rivalry Game

Thursday Night Football will provide NFL fans with an intriguing game as the Green Bay Packers welcome the Chicago Bears to Lambeau Field. The longtime rivals have had no shortage of classic battles over the years.

With the Packers losing their first game and wanting to avoid an 0-2 start, the stakes are already high even though it's only Week 2. The Bears would love nothing more than to assert themselves atop the division while pushing Green Bay into an early funk.

While Aaron Rodgers, Matt Forte and the other stars will have an impact on the outcome, the winning team in these games is usually the one that gets the most from its role players. Let's take a look at one from each team that need to step up.

Green Bay Packers: Randall Cobb

Cobb did everything in his power to keep the Packers close against the San Francisco 49ers last week, catching nine passes for 77 yards and returning a punt for a touchdown. Three of his four career touchdowns have come on special teams.

Given his game-breaking ability, it's no surprise he's seen his role in the offense increase in Week 1. He was targeted nine times, which was tied for the most among Packers receivers with Greg Jennings. More than Jordy Nelson and James Jones.

With Jennings officially listed as doubtful for Thursday's game with a groin injury (per Packers beat writer Tyler Dunne via Twitter), Cobb should be in line for even more playing time on offense. That's a good thing, because, based on the first game, the more often the Packers can get him the ball, the better.

Although the Packers defense got burned last week, don't expect the game plan to change. Rodgers will still be taking to the air early and often, and don't be surprised if Cobb has a breakout game on a national stage.

Chicago Bears: Tim Jennings

The veteran cornerback tied his career high for interceptions in a season in one game with two against the Indianapolis Colts. He also racked up four tackles and defended four passes en route to one of the best games of his career.

When Charles Tillman was forced to leave the game in the first quarter, Jennings was asked to take on a bigger role, and he responded in a major way. Tillman's playing status for Thursday remains up in the air as he tries to get back to full strength.

Since the Packers feature a high-powered passing attack, Jennings would be under pressure all night if Tillman is unable to go or is limited. How he responds will determine how much the Bears can slow down the Packers.

San Francisco was able to pick up a win in Lambeau because its defense was able to get enough stops. The same will be true for the Bears. Jennings will be one of the game's stars if Chicago's able to remain unbeaten through two weeks.