3. Brett Favre (Vikings) vs. Packers, 2009
The retirement whispers started for the future Hall of Fame quarterback near the end of the 2006 season, and when Favre cried after the final regular-season game, many believed he had played for the last time in the NFL. But after an internal debate, he returned in 2007, then announced his retirement at a tearful press conference in the offseason. When Favre inquired about coming back, the Packers said they had moved on with Aaron Rodgers, prompting Favre to ask for his unconditional release. Green Bay refused, and bitterness and anger set in before he was traded to the Jets.
After one season in New York, Favre retired again, and this time was granted his unconditional release, making him free to sign with any team. But it wasn't just any team he signed with; it was the Vikings, Green Bay's most hated rival that played the Packets twice a year. In two games, Favre embarrassed his old team, taking two victories that made the difference in Minnesota finishing first in the division and Green Bay second. He also torched them for a combined 515 yards and seven touchdowns, including four in his return to Lambeau Field, where Packers fans jeered him relentlessly.
