The Packers announced they will kickoff the 2008 regular season with a home game at Lambeau Field against their NFC North rival, the Minnesota Vikings on Monday Night Football, 6pm CDT,  Sept.  8th.

It's part of a double-header that night on ESPN-TV, with the Raiders hosting the Broncos at 9:15pm, CDT.

The NFL season officially kicks off Thursday night, Sept. 4th, as the defending champs, the New York Giants, host the Washington Redskins for a 6pm kickoff.

The first Sunday Night Football Game on NBC will pair the Bears at the Colts new stadium at 7:15pm, Sept. 7th.

The information was announced by league Commissioner Rodger Goodell at the NFL owners meetings taking place this week in Palm Beach, Florida.

The full Packers regular season schedule is due later this week.

- Mike Clemens