Like it or Not, Favre Moves the Meter

There's a saying in the TV biz about personalities. Actually it's more of a question.

"Does he move the meter?"

The reference is to the ratings meter--and if someone or something can get more people to watch a program or event, it's said they 'move the meter'.

The Brett Favre saga may finally be over which is a relief to many--even here in Wisconsin where I happen to be right now. Favre has gotten far too much attention, but it's because he's one of those guys who still does move the meter.

Now that he's in New York, he's going to move it even more, whether he's successful or not. As a Packer fan it kills me to see him in a Jets cap, but he's always interesting even if you don't necessarily approve of everything that's gone on lately.

I got a call this morning from Newsday, asking for reaction to the crush of people seeking Jets Favre jerseys and other Favre memorabilia. Apparently, they were already for sale by midnight last night and now we'll see a slew of new Favre cards and other pieces issued as the season gets underway.

For some, Favre leaving Green Bay is emotional, for others it's a chance to capitalize on something entirely new. I don't suspect there was going to be a demand for 2008 Favre cards before the trade. Now, that's going to change a bit. Whether you're tired of this whole soap opera or not, having Favre back in the NFL --and back on the market--is a good thing. The meters prove that.

And by the way, yes I did make a beeline from the airport to the Packers practice field to watch the club's first true practice in the Aaron Rodgers era. He looked good. He looked relaxed. And no one was yelling "Bring Back Brett" anymore. Thank God for that.