Jerome Bettis Thinks Brett Favre, Aaron Rodgers Should Battle for Starting QB Gig

Despite going to Notre Dame, Jerome Bettis seems like a smart fellow. Which is why it's sorta interesting to hear his thoughts on the most recent development in the STORY THAT REFUSES TO DIE: BRETT FAVRE AND HIS QUEST TO RUIN AARON RODGERS' LIFE.

So, last we heard, Favre had faxed his "I'M BACK!!!" papers to NFL headquarters, and Packers president Mark Murphy flew to Mississippi to beg Favre not to report to training camp. (As an aside: no way this is a distraction to the team's hopes of returning to the playoffs.)

And now, Bettis, appearing on Dan Patrick's radio show, offers his two cents on what the Packers brain trust should be doing.

"As a veteran, I would say, 'Are you kidding me?' I would say, 'Why would you take such a hard stance?' I understand you have to think of the future. But as a player, I would say, you know what, let's go out and give them an equal opportunity and let the best man win. I understand Aaron Rodgers - it's a delicate situation for him. But if you let the competition decide who wins, no one can be upset about that. And Brett may not win, and if that happens, you're in the best of all situations because Aaron has proved to you that he can go out there and get it done."

This is an idea the Green Bay Press Gazette's Mike Vandermause floated earlier this month, but a couple things: a) is there anyway Favre doesn't win that competition (fairly or not?), and b) why even open that can of worms?

I know, I know, Favre gives the Packers the best chance to win now, but is there any evidence to suggest Rodgers wouldn't be able to get Green Bay to the playoffs? And even if you're not willing to concede that last point, what about this (as MDS at PFT pointed out): where are all the Favre supporters on the Packers' roster? How come they're not lobbying for Favre to return to his rightful place as the mayor of Green Bay? Just asking.