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NFL Quarterback Power Rankings 2016: Derek Carr for MVP?
NFL Quarterback Power Rankings for Week 9 of the 2016 season
As we head into Week 9, the Cleveland Browns fans have something to celebrate. No, it isn’t a win, because they are still the only team left in the NFL without one, but they did trade for one of the best linebackers in football. It’s the little things that count!
Another week of NFL football is in the books and the Browns once again had more than one quarterback taking snaps. Surprisingly enough, my 11-month old daughter has been answering her toy phone saying “hi,” but the Browns haven’t been on the other end. Who knows when the Browns will win a game this season, if they ever will. Though, I wonder if there is a bet in Vegas for which Browns quarterback will earn their first win if they actually get one?
This week featured six teams on their bye (Baltimore Ravens, Los Angeles Rams, Miami Dolphins, New York Giants, Pittsburgh Steelers, and San Francisco 49ers). That meant 26 quarterbacks started in Week 8, however after I jinxed the NFL last week causing a tie game, there was another tie this week. So, that means 12 quarterbacks won, 12 quarterbacks lost, and two quarterbacks tied. If a tie happens again next week, I am telling myself I’ll never win a million dollars and heading right to the casino.
The 26 starters combined for 7,011 yards, 44 touchdown passes, 13 interceptions, and they were sacked 62 times. If you have been following along all year, the 7,011 passing yards and 44 touchdowns is impressive considering last week 30 starters only combined for 6,975 yards and 35 scores. What isn’t impressive is the fact they were sacked 62 times in Week 8 when they were only sacked 53 in Week 7. Three quarterbacks who weren’t in last weeks NFL Quarterback Power Rankings are in this weeks because of injuries.
Week 8 was a good one, so click along to see where the starters sit as they get ready for Week 9.
Oct 23, 2016; London, ENG; quarterback Case Keenum (17) of the Los Angeles Rams sets to pass during the game between the Los Angeles Rams and the New York Giants at Twickenham Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Flynn-USA TODAY Sports
Case Keenum
QB, Los Angeles Rams
Previous Rank: 32 (BYE WEEK)
Week 8 Statistics: BYE WEEK
Week 8 Final Score: BYE WEEK
Season Statistics: 147-237 (62%), 1,708 yards, 8 TDs, 10 INTs
Season Record: 3-4
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Even though the Los Angeles Rams were on their bye in Week 8, I could almost guarantee that their quarterback Case Keenum would have been No. 32 or close to it, even if he played. Keenum is easily one of the worst starting quarterbacks in football. In his last outing, he threw four interceptions, bringing his season total to 10.
The biggest problem with his interceptions is the fact his volume of touchdowns is so poor, so it’s not like he is slinging touchdowns and you put up with the interceptions.
Keenum has been terrible all year, yet the Rams are 3-4. That may be a bad record to some, but the way he has played, it’s impressive they even have three wins. If I was the Rams, I would draft a quarterback in the first round of the 2017 NFL—wait, they did that in 2016?
That’s right! They have No. 1 overall pick Jared Goff just waiting to get his chance, but head coach Jeff Fisher would rather go 8-8 or worse with Keenum. Somehow, someway, Keenum is starting in Week 9, but I feel that the end is near for the No. 32 ranked quarterback.
October 23, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick (7) runs with the football against Tampa Bay Buccaneers middle linebacker Kwon Alexander (58) during the first quarter at Levi
Colin Kaepernick
QB, San Francisco 49ers
Previous Rank: 31 (BYE WEEK)
Week 8 Statistics: BYE WEEK
Week 8 Final Score: BYE WEEK
Season Statistics: 29-63 (46%), 330 yards, 2 TDs, 1 INT
Season Record: 0-2
Another quarterback who was actually helped by the bye week is the San Francisco 49ers starter, Colin Kaepernick. Putting it nicely, Kaepernick has been awful in his first two starts. He has only completed 46 percent of his passes for 330 yards and two touchdowns.
That means he would be on pace (for a 16-game season) to throw for 2,640 yards, and 16 touchdowns this season. Yuck! There are some quarterbacks that almost have those stats through eight games this season, so that just highlights the fact that Kaepernick isn’t good.
Since winning their opening game, the 49ers haven’t won since. It has been a long year for them, but it seems like it will feel even longer because of Kaepernick’s poor play. Maybe he needs to focus more time on his accuracy and decision-making. If he does that, maybe he’ll be able to take a knee in a game when his team is in the victory formation, not to end the half because they are stinking up the place.
Oct 30, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; New York Jets quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick (14) signals to his receivers during the fourth quarter against the Cleveland Browns at FirstEnergy Stadium. The Jets won 31-28. Mandatory Credit: Scott R. Galvin-USA TODAY Sports
Ryan Fitzpatrick
QB, New York Jets
Previous Rank: NR
Week 8 Statistics: 16-34 (47.1%), 228 yards, 1 TD, 0 INTs
Week 8 Final Score: 31-28 (W)
Season Statistics: 152-271 (56.1%), 1,789 yards, 7 TDs, 11 INTs
Season Record: 2-5
After starting quarterback for the New York Jets through the first six games of the season, Ryan Fitzpatrick was benched in Week 7 for Geno Smith. It was a smart call for the Jets, mainly because they were 1-5 with Fitzpatrick and he led the NFL with 11 interceptions.
However, Smith tore his ACL in that Week 7 game, so after getting benched and having the team turn on him, Fitzpatrick trotted back out on the field. He finished the game playing well and it started the debate on whether he should start again. He won the debate because the Jets found out that Smith was done for the year. So one week after benching him, Fitzpatrick was once again the starter.
He is once again at the bottom of the pack, where he was before Smith got the starting job. Fitzpatrick has been so inaccurate all season and it continued in Week 8. He only completed 47.1 percent of his passes, but did not throw an interception. Fitzpatrick ended the day with 228 yards and one touchdown, leading his team to a 31-28 victory. The only problem is they almost lost the game—and they were playing the Browns.
It seems like we will see Fitzpatrick the rest of the season, barring any injury to him, so look for him to be ranked poorly each week.
Oct 30, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Josh McCown (13) throws a pass against the New York Jets during the third quarter at FirstEnergy Stadium. The Jets won 31-28. Mandatory Credit: Scott R. Galvin-USA TODAY Sports
Josh McCown
QB, Cleveland Browns
Previous Rank: NR
Week 8 Statistics: 25-49 (51%), 341 yards, 2 TDs, 2 INTs
Week 8 Final Score: 28-31 (L)
Season Statistics: 45-82 (54.9%), 601 yards, 4 TDs, 4 INTs
Season Record: 0-2
Another Cleveland Browns quarterback, another Browns loss. It’s just the norm for this season and may not change if they can’t find some consistency at the quarterback position. This time the Browns went back to Josh McCown in Week 8, who had previously started in Week 2, but was injured. McCown played okay, but he only completed 51 percent of his passes.
He did throw for 341 yards and two touchdowns, but he also threw two costly interceptions. Turnovers have been a problem the entire season for the Browns and when your roster is as poor as theirs, turnovers directly reflect losses. That was the case this week, as they only lost by three points.
Had McCown taken care of the football better, they may have won their first game and ruined my opening jokes. It looks like he will start again next game, so expect the same from him. In both of the games he has started this year, he has thrown two interceptions. If he does that again, the Browns will once again fail to win a game and he will fail to climb in the power rankings.
Oct 30, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos offensive guard Michael Schofield (79) and defensive end Joey Bosa (99) go after a fumble by Denver Broncos quarterback Trevor Siemian (13) (bottom right) in the second quarter against the San Diego Chargers at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports
Trevor Siemian
QB, Denver Broncos
Previous Rank: 24 (-4)
Week 8 Statistics: 20-38 (52.6%), 276 yards, 0 TDs, 1 INT
Week 8 Final Score: 27-19 (W)
Season Statistics: 132-214 (61.7%), 1,487 yards, 8 TDs, 4 INTs
Season Record: 6-1
The Denver Broncos won again, but once again it was because of their elite defense, not their mediocre quarterback. Yeah, Trevor Siemian did enough for them to win the game, but he did not do enough to find himself ranked higher in the power rankings.
Denver won the Super Bowl last year with Peyton Manning playing terrible, so they felt if they still had an elite defense, that Siemian would be just fine for them at quarterback. I do not believe they are right because Siemian just isn’t good enough in my eyes.
In Week 8, he only completed 52.6 percent of his passes for 276 yards and no touchdowns. Not only did he fail to throw for a score, he turned the ball over twice with a fumble and an interception. Those are plays that will lead to the Broncos losing a big game, but I believe they will lose the big games in the playoffs because he doesn’t bring enough to the table. Teams aren’t afraid of him throwing the football, even if he did throw for four scores one week. Outside of that four-touchdown game, Siemian hasn’t had more than one touchdown in a game the entire season.
Oct 23, 2016; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Jets cornerback Buster Skrine (41) intercepts a pass from Baltimore Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco (5) (not shown) during the second half at MetLife Stadium. The Jets defeated the Ravens 24-16. Mandatory Credit: Ed Mulholland-USA TODAY Sports
Joe Flacco
QB, Baltimore Ravens
Previous Rank: 27 (BYE WEEK)
Week 8 Statistics: BYE WEEK
Week 8 Final Score: BYE WEEK
Season Statistics: 189-308 (61.4%), 1,837 yards, 5 TDs, 6 INTs
Season Record: 3-4
To be honest, I was expecting Joe Flacco to have a big season. You may think that sounds dumb considering it is Joe Flacco and he was coming off of a torn ACL from last season. However, I just felt that Flacco had a lot to prove and was going to get after it this year.
He started hot with his Baltimore Ravens, going 3-0. It had a lot of people questioning whether their team was real or fake. Well, they were pretenders, which became obvious after they lost their fourth-straight game to fall to 3-4.
It was also obvious that Flacco was a big part of their failures so far in 2016. I may have expected him to have a big season, but he is playing bad football and it’s leading to his team losing football games.
He has completed 61.4 percent of his passes for 1,837 yards and five touchdowns through seven weeks. Those aren’t numbers an elite veteran quarterback should be posting and to make matters worse, he can’t take care of the football. Through those seven weeks, he has six interceptions, which is one more pick than he has touchdowns.
If Flacco doesn’t turn it around, the Ravens will have a high draft pick and he will be ranked low in the power rankings when the year is over.
Oct 23, 2016; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Miami Dolphins quarterback Ryan Tannehill (17) celebrates after Dolphins running back Jay Ajayi (not pictured) scored a touchdown during the second half against the Buffalo Bills at Hard Rock Stadium. The Dolphins won 28-25. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports
Ryan Tannehill
QB, Miami Dolphins
Previous Rank: 26 (BYE WEEK)
Week 8 Statistics: BYE WEEK
Week 8 Final Score: BYE WEEK
Season Statistics: 139-213 (65.3%), 1,728 yards, 7 TDs, 7 INTs
Season Record: 3-4
Oddly enough, the Miami Dolphins have won two straight games after staring 1-4 in 2016. They are a team that probably did not want to go to their bye week, but what makes it odd is the fact their quarterback probably wanted to.
Ryan Tannehill has been one of the bigger disappointments this season. Many people are high on him, but they have most likely jumped ship after a train wreck start to his 2016 season. He was drafted eighth overall in the 2012 NFL Draft, but the Dolphins knew it would take some time for him to become one of the elite starers in the league.
Well, it’s his fifth season and he is looking like one of the quarterbacks who you should move on from and cut your losses. He’s been nothing special and has actually hurt the Dolphins more than he has helped.
Through seven games, Tannehill has thrown for 1,728 yards and seven touchdowns, but like many bottom feeders in the power rankings, he has thrown a ton of interceptions (7). When you’re on a bad team, the last thing you need to do is make things worse by turning the ball over and he’s not understanding that. If he continues to stink it up this season, I have already said it and I’ll say it again—the Dolphins need to move on from him and draft a quarterback in the 2017 NFL Draft.
Oct 23, 2016; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Landry Jones (3) scrambles with the ball against the New England Patriots during the fourth quarter at Heinz Field. New England won 27-16. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
Landry Jones
QB, Pittsburgh Steelers
Previous Rank: 25 (BYE WEEK)
Week 8 Statistics: BYE WEEK
Week 8 Final Score: BYE WEEK
Season Statistics: 29-48 (60.4%), 281 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT
Season Record: 0-1
When you look at Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Landry Jones, you think about how good the Steelers offense would be if their real starer Ben Roethlisberger wasn’t injured and was playing. That is not a knock on Jones, but more praise for Roethlisberger and the Steelers. They have a ton of elite weapons on their squad, but Jones isn’t the guy they need to be running their offense.
Luckily they had their bye in Week 8, so they have time to regroup and it’s a free week to let Roethlisberger heal from his knee surgery. Jones played well in his first start of the season, but had to do that against the New England Patriots. He should have thrown for two touchdowns, but one was called back. However, he did throw an interception.
The Steelers need him to take care of the football and get it into the hands of their playmakers. If he can manage the game and not try to do too much, the Steelers can beat anybody. They have an elite offense and a good enough defense to make a run deep into the playoffs, but that is only when Roethlisberger is their general.
This could be the last week we see Jones on the list, or maybe he will get one more week. Who knows, but I do not see him getting much higher than No. 25 on the power rankings if he plays more this season.
Oct 27, 2016; Nashville, TN, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Blake Bortles (5) passes against the Tennessee Titans during the first half at Nissan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Brown-USA TODAY Sports
Blake Bortles
QB, Jacksonville Jaguars
Previous Rank: 28 (+4)
Week 8 Statistics: 33-54 (61.1%), 337 yards, 3 TDs, 0 INTs
Week 8 Final Score: 22-36 (L)
Season Statistics: 174-290 (60%), 1,904 yards, 12 TDs, 9 INTs
Season Record: 2-5
One of my biggest pet peeves of covering the quarterback position is a person who scouts the box score. What I mean by that, is that when they try to talk about how good a quarterback did in the game, they look at the box score and regurgitate stats that mean nothing to me.
A perfect example of why I hate box score scouts is Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Blake Bortles. When you look at his stats in the box score, you see 33-of-54 (61.1%), 337 yards, three touchdowns, zero interceptioms. Wow, that is an impressive game. His team lost 22-36, but obviously Bortles wasn’t the reason for the loss, right?
WRONG!
My favorite saying is, “The eye in the sky doesn’t lie.” My high school football coach engraved that in my mind and I’ve lived by it scouting quarterbacks. I’ve since added on to his saying, making it, “The eye in the sky doesn’t lie, stats do.” This saying is perfect for Bortles in Week 8.
Yeah, he had three touchdowns, but at halftime of this game, his team was down 27-0. He threw a touchdown to open the second half and make it 27-8, but the Titans scored two more times and it was 36-8 in the fourth quarter. That is when Bortles went off. He threw two touchdowns, one when there was only one-second left in the game, but it brought the score to the 22-36 loss you see in the box score.
That’s called garbage time stats and Bortles has been playing like garbage this season. Listen, my friends, do not get caught up in the box score. You might actually think Bortles is a solid quarterback then. Rest assured, that’s not the case.
Oct 30, 2016; New Orleans, LA, USA; Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson (3) throws a pass against the New Orleans Saints during the fourth quarter of a game at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. The Saints defeated the Seahawks 25-20. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports
Russell Wilson
QB, Seattle Seahawks
Previous Rank: 18 (-5)
Week 8 Statistics: 22-34 (64.7%), 253 yards, 0 TDs, 1 INT
Week 8 Final Score: 20-25 (L)
Season Statistics: 158-241 (65.6%), 1,812 yards, 5 TDs, 2 INTs
Season Record: 4-2-1
I’m not even joking when I say this, but you gotta love the fact that Russell Wilson fans stand by their guy even when he is playing like crap. Yeah, I said it: Wilson is playing like crap. I know, I know, he’s played injured, his offensive line stinks, he has no weapons (debatable), but sometimes you need to stop making excuses and face the facts.
Yes, there is still Wilson fans out there who believe he is better than Tom Brady, but they should be more worried that their favorite quarterback is currently on pace for 11 touchdown passes this season. Numbers like that are putrid and elite quarterbacks do not throw 11 touchdown passes in a season.
His struggles continued on Sunday throwing for 253 yards, but failing to throw a touchdown once again. On a positive note, he has taken care of the football well, but he threw his second interception of the season in Week 8 and that hurt his team.
They lost 20-25, so all they needed was Wilson to throw one touchdown pass or lead them on a scoring drive, but he failed to do that. If it wasn’t for Wilson’s outlier game where he threw three touchdown passes, Wilson wouldn’t have multiple touchdown passes in any games the season In fact, he has four games this year where he hasn’t even thrown a touchdown and two others where he only has thrown for one.
Wilson has been pretty bad in 2016 and if he doesn’t get it together, he will continue to fall in the power rankings.
Oct 30, 2016; Charlotte, NC, USA; Carolina Panthers defensive end Charles Johnson (95) strips the ball from Arizona Cardinals quarterback Carson Palmer (3) in the third quarter at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports
Carson Palmer
QB, Arizona Cardinals
Previous Rank: 23 (+1)
Week 8 Statistics: 35-46 (76.1%), 363 yards, 3 TDs, 1 INT
Week 8 Final Score: 20-30 (L)
Season Statistics: 177-282 (62.8%), 2,068 yards, 10 TDs, 6 INTs
Season Record: 2-4-1
If you didn’t think the Arizona Cardinals season could get uglier, it did on Sunday. They are now 3-4-1 on the year and haven’t looked like a team that will do anything in the playoffs. Many felt that this team would be one to make a deep run this year, but their quarterback Carson Palmer has played poorly.
Just like with Bortles, do not judge a quarterback off of their statistics in the box score. Yeah, Palmer threw for 363 yards and three touchdowns, but his team was down 24-7 at halftime. The game got to 30-7 in the third quarter and then Palmer started to get some garage time stats. He threw for a touchdown to make it 30-14 at the end of the third quarter and then threw another with five minutes left in the fourth to make it 20-30. So it may look like a close game, but it wasn’t.
Palmer needs to put it together earlier and not let his team get in a hole like that. He fumbled and the Panthers returned it for a touchdown in the first quarter to make my point stronger. If it wasn’t for this three-touchdown garbage time game, Palmer hasn’t thrown multiple touchdowns in his last four starts.
This isn’t the Palmer many felt they would see in 2016, but get used to it because it looks like it’ll be a long year in Arizona if he can’t turn it around.
Oct 30, 2016; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Texans quarterback Brock Osweiler (17) throws during the first quarter against the Detroit Lions at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports
Brock Osweiler
QB, Houston Texans
Previous Rank: 21 (NC)
Week 8 Statistics: 20-29 (69%), 186 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT
Week 8 Final Score: 20-13 (W)
Season Statistics: 176-297 (59.3%), 1,719 yards, 9 TDs, 9 INTs
Season Record: 5-3
The mediocre season for Houston Texans quarterback Brock Osweiler continued in Week 8. They paid him $72 million this offseason and Osweiler hasn’t played like a player that makes $18 million a season.
His team won the game, but Osweiler isn’t the guy you can look at and say that he won the game for his team. The Texans have a solid roster, even with the loss of J.J. Watt, and their defense has played well.
Osweiler ended the night only throwing for 186 yards and a touchdown, but he threw another interception. Turning the ball over has been a big problem for him this season and he needs to cut down on the interceptions.
He has nine through eight games, putting him on pace for 18 this season. He has only thrown nine touchdowns as well, meaning he’s not having a good year. There is another whole half of the year to go, so hopefully Osweiler can show the Texans he was worth the money. If he turns it on, the Texans have a team that could be sneaky in the playoffs, but only if Osweiler is playing elite.
Oct 23, 2016; London, United Kingdom; New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) drops back to pass against the Los Angeles Rams during the first half at Twickenham Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Flynn-USA TODAY Sports
Eli Manning
QB, New York Giants
Previous Rank: 20 (BYE WEEK)
Week 8 Statistics: BYE WEEK
Week 8 Final Score: BYE WEEK
Season Statistics: 175-270 (64.8%), 1,084 yards, 8 TDs, 6 INTs
Season Record: 4-3
It’s been a down year for the New York Giants and their quarterback Eli Manning, yet they stand at 4-3 with the NFC East a reasonable goal. Hmmm, it sounds like they’ll probably win the Super Bowl this year because that is just how Manning roles.
He makes you think that he isn’t elite and then BOOM, he dominates when it matter most and you’re like, ‘this guy will be in the Hall of Fame.’ I think for sure Manning will be a Hall of Famer one day, but as of now, he won’t talk much about his 2016 season.
Something has been off about Manning, but he’s been so inaccurate on easy throws that he usually makes. It’s been a big problem for their offense, but he has had the bye week to fine tune some things.
The Giants take on the Eagles in Week 9 and they have some of the worst corners in the entire NFL. This could be the perfect time for Manning to get back on track and show that he is still elite. If he get’s hot and the Giants defense finds their groove, seriously, don’t sleep on the greatness of Manning when it matters the most.
Oct 30, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Alex Smith (11) is tackled and injured on this play and leaves the game after being tackled by Indianapolis Colts linebacker Edwin Jackson (53) at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports
Alex Smith
QB, Kansas City Chiefs
Previous Rank: 17 (-2)
Week 8 Statistics: 9-19 (47.4%), 127 yards, 1 TD, 0 INTs
Week 8 Final Score: 30-14 (W)
Season Statistics: 154-233 (66.1%), 1,638 yards, 8 TDs, 2 INTs
Season Record: 5-2
Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Alex Smith picked up the 73rd win of his career on Sunday, though he wasn’t around to really win the game, nor did he play at the level he normally plays at. Smith was injured in Week 8, ending the day with 127 yards and a touchdown, but only completing an uncharacteristic 47.4 percent of his passes.
The injury obviously hurt, but what I think hurt the most was the fact that backup quarterback Nick Foles came in and showed Smith’s weaknesses for his team. Only throwing three more passes than Smith, Foles threw for two touchdowns and 223 yards, almost 100 more than Smith.
I have always said that Smith is the best game-manager in the game, but the Chiefs found out that if they don’t have a game-manager, they can score some points and win handily. Yeah, it is nice to know Smith will take care of the football, but with Foles, you know you will score more. I do not think the Chiefs will stick with Foles, but if Smith doesn’t play this week and Foles lights it up, Smith better make sure that he plays better upon his eventual return.
He will have to show the Chiefs that he may be a game-manager, but he can put up points as well. I just know that if I was in the Chiefs front office, I would be thinking about what our team could be with a quarterback, not a game-manager.
Oct 31, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Minnesota Vikings quarterback Sam Bradford (8) drops back to pass against the Chicago Bears during the second half at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports
Sam Bradford
QB, Minnesota Vikings
Previous Rank: 15 (-3)
Week 8 Statistics: 23-37 (62.2%), 228 yards, 1 TD, 0 INTs
Week 8 Final Score: 10-20 (L)
Season Statistics: 135-203 (66.5%), 1,442 yards, 8 TDs, 1 INT
Season Record: 4-2
For two straight weeks, Minnesota Vikings quarterback Sam Bradford has looked more like the Bradford we have seen over his career. In his first four starts with the Vikings, Bradford was looking like the he could save Minnesota’s season after they lost their real starter, Teddy Bridgewater, to a torn ACL.
When they gave up a first round pick for Bradford, the Philadelphia Eagles had to chuckle a little. I mean this in the nicest way possible, but Bradford isn’t worth a first round pick—not even close. Yet, the Vikings paid the price nine days before the NFL season started and it looked like the price was worth it. Now, after a two-game losing streak, it looks like they are paying the price for trading their first round pick for Bradford.
Yes, the Vikings offensive line has been horrendous and Bradford has been sacked 11 times over the last two weeks, but that’s always been Bradford’s tragic flaw. He stinks when he faces pressure, proving he will never be an elite quarterback. Bradford ended the day with 228 yards and one touchdown, with his team losing 20-10. He missed a lay-up touchdown pass in the game and just play like the Bradford we’ve become accustomed to watching.
He drops again in the power rankings and my bet is that he continues to struggle because the Viking offensive line problems aren’t going away.
Oct 30, 2016; London, United Kingdom; Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Andy Dalton (14) throws a pass against the Washington Redskins during game 17 of the NFL International Series at Wembley Stadium. The Redskins and Bengals tied 27-27. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Andy Dalton
QB, Cincinnati Bengals
Previous Rank: 19 (+2)
Week 8 Statistics: 27-42 (64.3%), 284 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT
Week 8 Final Score: 27-27 (T)
Season Statistics: 193-288 (67%), 2,349 yards, 9 TDs, 3 INTs
Season Record: 3-4-1
Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Andy Dalton should thank some of the other quarterbacks for playing so poorly because if it wasn’t for them playing bad, he probably wouldn’t stayed at No. 19. Luckily for him, they did play bad and he played okay, so he climbs two spots but only by default.
In Week 8, Dalton once again showed he is an average, middle of the pack quarterback. I called for the Bengals to think about going to A.J. McCarron and I stand by that. Dalton isn’t giving them what they need to win games, so maybe a change will help them.
Through eight games, Dalton is 3-4-1, tying this week against the Washington Redskins. He is only on pace for 18 touchdowns, which is poor for a quarterback who is playing his sixth year in the league. The poor touchdown numbers have hurt the Bengals and he needs to start getting his team in the end zone.
The only positive to Dalton’s play this season is the fact that he has only thrown three interceptions. If he starts to turn the ball over, I would for sure make the switch at quarterback. However, he better start playing better or they will have to make it anyway.
Oct 30, 2016; Orchard Park, NY, USA; Buffalo Bills quarterback Tyrod Taylor (5) drops to throws a pass under pressure by New England Patriots defensive end Chris Long (95) during the second half at New Era Field. The Patriots beat the Bills 41-25. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Hoffman-USA TODAY Sports
Tyrod Taylor
QB, Buffalo Bills
Previous Rank: 16 (NC)
Week 8 Statistics: 19-38 (50%), 183 yards, 0 TDs, 0 INTs
Week 8 Final Score: 25-41 (L)
Season Statistics: 135-230 (58.7%), 1,480 yards, 9 TDs, 2 INTs
Season Record: 4-4
The Buffalo Bills started the year 0-2. It was a time to be scared, but they went on a four-game win streak. Sitting at 4-2, it seemed the Bills were on the right path to success, but it seems like they will beep and down all year because they have now lost two straight to move to 4-4.
In their defense, the loss this week was to the hottest team in football, the New England Patriots. Also, their quarterback Tyrod Taylor didn’t play great. He ended the game throwing for 183 yards and only completed 50 percent of his passes. He didn’t throw an interception, which is good, but he also did not throw a touchdown. His weapons aren’t great right now, but luckily he used his feet to score.
Outside of his rushing touchdown, it wasn’t a good game for Taylor. He needs to improve his play if the Bills are going to win. He has taken care of the football, but he needs to get more aggressive throwing the ball. Taylor is playing too safe and sometimes you need to take risks to make big plays. Maybe the addition of Percy Harvin will help, but something needs to change if Taylor is going to climb the power rankings.
Oct 31, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler (6) drops back to pass against the Minnesota Vikings during the first half at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports
Jay Cutler
QB, Chicago Bears
Previous Rank: NR
Week 8 Statistics: 20-31 (64.5%), 252 yards, 1 TD, 0 INTs
Week 8 Final Score: 20-10 (W)
Season Statistics: 48-77 (62.3%), 625 yards, 2 TDs, 2 INTs
Season Record: 1-2
It has been a tough year for Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler. For starters, he stunk early in the year. He was playing terrible football and fans were calling for his head. However, it was his thumb that they got. He injured it and was out for weeks, and Brian Hoyer filled in. What made it worse was the fact that Hoyer played well and should have started the rest of the season.
Though, a broken arm forced him out, which allowed Cutler to get back in the next week. Who knows if he was 100 percent healthy, but what we do know was that he played the best game of his season. He threw for 252 yards and a touchdown against the Minnesota Vikings, who are have arguably the best defense in football.
Cutler looked like he was having fun again as he was signing the ball around the field and leading his team to a victory. It was a win the team really needed, but Cutler needed it the most. The Bears aren’t going to be in the playoffs this season, but if Cutler can play well, he will still have a job next season, even if it isn’t in Chicago.
Oct 30, 2016; Tampa, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Jameis Winston (3) calls a play against the Oakland Raiders during the first quarter at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Jameis Winston
QB, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Previous Rank: 11 (-3)
Week 8 Statistics: 16-32 (50%), 180 yards, 2 TDs, 0 INTs
Week 8 Final Score: 24-30 (L)
Season Statistics: 158-269 (58.7%), 1,776 yards, 14 TDs, 9 INTs
Season Record: 3-4
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers lost and their quarterback Jameis Winston played poorly. Sound familiar? I am sure it does because that is how it has been all season for the Buccaneers. They will go as far as their quarterbacks takes them and at this point, that doesn’t seem very far.
On the season, Winston has only completed 58.7 percent of his passes, highlighting his poor accuracy this season. He needs to start putting the ball in better spots because it has become a big problem for Winston. That showed in Week 8, when he completed 50 percent of his passes for only 180 yards. He did throw two touchdowns, but it wasn’t enough as the Oakland Raiders won in overtime.
His sophomore campaign hasn’t been a good one, but luckily for Winston he has another half of the year to turn it around. He is on pace for 32 touchdown passes, but also 21 interceptions. His team is poor and he is on his fourth running back this season, but Winston need to lead them.
I saw a comment on Twitter that said he isn’t made to lead a bad team, but that makes no sense to me. They drafted him No. 1 overall, with the idea that he will be the guy to turn things around. So yes, his team stinks, but he should be able to help make things better—not play poorly and be part of the problem.
Oct 30, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Indianapolis Colts quarterback Andrew Luck (12) throws a pass against the Kansas City Chiefs at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports
Andrew Luck
QB, Indianapolis Colts
Previous Rank: 13 (-5)
Week 8 Statistics: 19-35 (54.3%), 210 yards, 2 TDs, 1 INT
Week 8 Final Score: 14-30 (L)
Season Statistics: 198-311 (63.7%), 2,284 yards, 16 TDs, 5 INTs
Season Record: 3-5
What a weird year it has been for Indianapolis Colts quarterback Andrew Luck. One week he looks elite and looks like the guy many felt would be the next great quarterback in the NFL and then the next week he looks like a guy that will be mediocre and average the rest of his career. He has been so inconsistent all season and it has really hurt his team, hence their 3-5 record.
I understand their roster as a whole stinks. They have a bad defense and that is their biggest hole, but it doesn’t help when your elite quarterback doesn’t play at an elite level. The Colts offense just never got going the entire game, only scoring two touchdowns while getting blown out 30-14. Dare I say that Luck got outplayed by Nick Foles? Yes, he did. Sadly.
Luck just did not complete passes when he needed to and it always comes back on the quarterback. It isn’t like he lit the Chiefs defense up, instead, he only threw for 210 yards and two touchdowns, while only completing 54.3 percent of his passes. He also threw an interception in the game which obviously hurts his teams chances at winning.
He needs to improve if the Colts are going to win and if he wants to really be considered an elite quarterback.
Oct 30, 2016; Arlington, TX, USA; Philadelphia Eagles middle linebacker Jordan Hicks (58) intercepts a pass intended for Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Brice Butler (19) in the second quarter at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports
Dak Prescott
QB, Dallas Cowboys
Previous Rank: 7 (-5)
Week 8 Statistics: 19-39 (48.7%), 287 yards, 2 TDs, 1 INT
Week 8 Final Score: 29-23 (L)
Season Statistics: 144-221 (65.2%), 1,773 yards, 9 TDs, 2 INTs
Season Record: 6-1
I can already feel the fire burning through Dallas Cowboys fans eyes seeing their new favorite player and starting quarterback Dak Prescott drop after beating the Philadelphia Eagles in overtime. Yeah, I know, he threw a game-winning touchdown pass in overtime and the Copwboys are 6-1. Yes, I know, he was a fourth round pick and only started because their real starer Tony Romo was injured.
However, I also know the game of football and Prescott played terrible on Sunday. As much as I love him and hate to use him when describing a terrible quarterback performance, this will hurt to say, he reminded me of Tim Tebow on Sunday Night. He was missing easy throws the entire game and looked scared in the pocket. He threw a terrible interception in the end zone, which was a read you make in high school. He also should’ve thrown two more interceptions, but the Eagles failed to capitalize on the bad decisions. Along with that, this game should have never even went to overtime.
Prescott played so poorly and that is the only reason it got to OT. Late in the fourth quarter, with the game tied, Prescott had a legitimate Tebow throw. He had Dez Bryant wide-open on a deep post, but he missed the throw by about 15 yards. He tried to put touch on the pass, for some odd reason, instead of throwing a strike that would have won the game.
It was his worst performance to date, and yes, the Eagles rookie actually outplayed him on Sunday even those Philly lost.
Oct 30, 2016; Arlington, TX, USA; Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Carson Wentz (11) throws a pass in the second quarter against the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports
Carson Wentz
QB, Philadelphia Eagles
Previous Rank: 13 (+2)
Week 8 Statistics: 32-43 (74.4%), 202 yards, 1 TD, 0 INTs
Week 8 Final Score: 23-29 (L)
Season Statistics: 150-228 (65.8%), 1,526 yards, 9 TDs, 3 INTs
Season Record: 4-3
This one may hurt some of the Cowboys fans and Prescott fans feelings, but the truth hurts sometimes, even when you do not want to accept it. If you asked Cowboys fans who was better, they’ll say Prescott. If you ask Eagles fans, they’ll say Carson Wentz.
However, if you ask a majority of the people who evaluate quarterbacks, they’ll say Wentz and they are right. Yes, Prescott is 6-1, but no, it’s not because of Prescott. Dallas is filled with stars (pun intended), while Wentz is arguably the best player on the Eagles offense.
Wentz completed 32-of-43 passes on Sunday Night and only threw for 202 yards. People have been knocking him for his short passes throughout the night, but that was the gameplan and Wentz was at least very accurate. The Eagles dropped six passes, and Pro Football Focus gave Wentz and adjusted completion percentage of 90.5.
On his only deep pass of the night, the perfect placed ball was dropped by Jordan Matthews. To make matters worse, another running back fumbled in a crucial situation, which led to the Cowboys getting three free points.
There is no debate in my eyes, Wentz is better than Prescott and that is why he jumped him in the rankings after losing to his team in Week 8.
Oct 27, 2016; Nashville, TN, USA; Tennessee Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) hands the ball off to running back DeMarco Murray (29) in the first half against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Nissan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports
Marcus Mariota
QB, Tennessee Titans
Previous Rank: 14 (+4)
Week 8 Statistics: 18-22 (81.8%), 270 yards, 2 TDs, 0 INTs
Week 8 Final Score: 36-22 (W)
Season Statistics: 157-248 (63.3%), 1,874 yards, 14 TDs, 6 INTs
Season Record: 4-4
Tennessee Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota must read my quarterback power rankings piece because I was very critical of him through the first four games of the season. I talked about his talent and how it wasn’t translating to the field. I also talked about how great quarterbacks can work through their teams struggles, especially when they aren’t rookies anymore.
Well, Mariota heard me and the last four games he has been on fire. Over that four game span, Mariota has thrown for 10 touchdowns and only one interception, with one rushing touchdown as well. Those 11 touchdowns have helped the Titans go from 1-3 to 4-4. Mariota has been sensational over these last four games and has shown why the Titans did not take any crazy trades for him.
If those four games were the only four he has played this season, Mariota would be on pace to throw for 40 touchdowns and rush for four more scores. Those are ridiculous numbers for him, but he needs to find that consistency now and dial in the rest of the season. 4-4 is a solid spot to be for a bad football team through eight weeks. So, Mariota needs to keep leading his team because they could go from the worst team in the NFL to a playoff team, just because of him.
Oct 30, 2016; Charlotte, NC, USA; Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton (1) celebrates after a touchdown in the second quarter against the Arizona Cardinals at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports
Cam Newton
QB, Carolina Panthers
Previous Rank: 12 (+3)
Week 8 Statistics: 14-27 (51.9%), 212 yards, 0 TDs, 0 INTs
Week 8 Final Score: 30-20 (W)
Season Statistics: 118-207 (57%), 1,508 yards, 8 TD’s, 6 INTs
Season Record: 2-4
This one may surprise some people, but I felt that Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton deserved to move up in the power rankings, even after he did not do too much in Week 8. Maybe I feel bad for him since he never gets a flag thrown, or maybe I am pumped that this win could have saved their season. Starting 1-6, the moral of the team is shot and it could get ugly, but winning that game to move to 2-5, the season isn’t over.
Newton understood that and that is why he took care of the football. If he can play a game without turning the ball over, chances are the Panthers will have a shot to win the game. In three of their four losses this season, Newton has thrown an interception.
However, in Week 8, he did not throw one, nor did he score a touchdown. Sometimes a greta player like Newton needs to stop trying to do everything and let his tea,mates help out. That is exactly what he did this week and it worked well for the Panthers. The defense scored a touchdown and Jonathan Stewart dominated the game, scoring twice.
He is one of the best players in the NFL, but at times Newton is his own worst enemy. He needs to keep this momentum going in Week 9 and allow his teammates to see that if they collectively do their jobs, they can beat anyone. I mean, they lost one game last season, so looks or the 2015 MVP to turn it on down the stretch.
Oct 30, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; San Diego Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers (17) passes in the second quarter against the Denver Broncos at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports
Philip Rivers
QB, San Diego Chargers
Previous Rank: 5 (-3)
Week 8 Statistics: 20-47 (42.6%), 267 yards, 2 TDs, 3 INTs
Week 8 Final Score: 19-27 (L)
Season Statistics: 182-292 (62.3%), 2,285 yards, 15 TDs, 7 INTs
Season Record: 3-5
The last time the San Diego Chargers took on the Denver Broncos, they had a great gamelan and walked away victorious. It was a great game by the Chargers and their quarterback Philip Rivers was on the money all night.
Just two weeks after beating the Broncos, the Chargers had to play them again, but this time their gamelan wasn’t as effective. The Broncos defense flew around the field and had an earl interception for a touchdown. Usually I knock people for throwing pick sixes, however I felt that this one was on the wide receiver for dropping the ball. Although, Rivers did throw two more in the game and did not help his team get the win on Sunday.
His two touchdowns were solid against the Broncos secondary, but if he did not throw three interceptions they would have won again. In Rivers’ defense, he has minimal weapons and he lost Travis Benjamin to a knee injury. He has done a lot with a little this season, so even though eh played poorly, he only drops three spots in the rankings.
Look for Rivers to bounce back next week against the Tennessee Titans.
Oct 30, 2016; Houston, TX, USA; Detroit Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford (9) attempts a pass during the second quarter against the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
Matthew Stafford
QB, Detroit Lions
Previous Rank: 3 (-4)
Week 8 Statistics: 27-41 (65.9%), 240 yards, 1 TD, 0 INTs
Week 8 Final Score: 13-20 (L)
Season Statistics: 191-282 (67.7%), 2,154 yards, 16 TDs, 4 INTs
Season Record: 4-4
After throwing for seven touchdowns in two weeks, Detroit Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford has thrown for two scores in his last two games. In Week 7, the Lions were able to win even though he only threw for one score, but in Week 8 it was a different story.
The Lions weren’t able to pull the game out on Sunday, losing 13-20. What makes it worse is the fact they only lost by one score, so it directly reflects back to the play of their starter, Stafford.
Stafford has had an awesome season in 2016, leading four game-winning drives while throwing for 2,154 yards and 16 touchdowns. Stafford is on pace to throw for 4,308 yards and 32 touchdowns this season, but sadly the Lions are going to need more. That isn’t a knock on Stafford at all, he is great, but his team isn’t. So, if they are going to make a run this season, Stafford needs to play out of his mind.
He is one of the better quarterbacks in the NFL, but he needs to show this season that he is one of the elite starers in the league. If Stafford is able to improve his numbers and lead his team to scores, the Lions have a chance to make the playoffs. And Stafford has a chance to be in the top five of the power rankings while still keeping his name in the MVP conversation.
Oct 30, 2016; London, United Kingdom; Washington Redskins quarterback Kirk Cousins (8) looks down field under pressure from Cincinnati Bengals safety Shawn Williams (36) during the second half at Wembley Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Flynn-USA TODAY Sports
Kirk Cousins
QB, Washington Redskins
Previous Rank: 9 (+3)
Week 8 Statistics: 38-56 (67.9%), 458 yards, 2 TDs, 1 INT
Week 8 Final Score: 27-27 (T)
Season Statistics: 215-321 (67%), 2,454 yards, 12 TDs, 7 INTs
Season Record: 4-3-1
I’m going to use it as long as I can, but the Kirk Cousins Kool-Aid was once again tasting good in Week 8. After taking so much heat to start the year, Cousins has answered and played really well. This week, without his starting running back, Cousins was able to throw for 458 yards, competing 67.9 percent of his passes, for two touchdowns.
He did throw an interception, but outside of that he played a good game. He now has 2,454 yards on the year and 12 touchdowns. He is on pace for 4,908 yards and 24 touchdowns. Not an elite season, but a very solid one and one you could be happy with from your starter. Cousins is playing for a big contract and if he can keep this up, he will get one.
It may not be the highest contract ever, nor should it be, but he will definitely get enough money that will make him happy and the Redskins happy as well. This Redskins team will go as far as Cousins will take them, so he needs to play at a high level. Even though the Redskins are currently last in the NFC East, they can easily win it if they put a streak together.
Oct 30, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (12) attempts a pass against Atlanta Falcons nose tackle Jonathan Babineaux (95) in the second quarter of their game at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports
Aaron Rodgers
QB, Green Bay Packers
Previous Rank: 10 (+5)
Week 8 Statistics: 28-38 (73.7%), 246 yards, 4 TDs, 0 INTs
Week 8 Final Score: 32-33 (L)
Season Statistics: 176-275 (64%), 1,742 yards, 17 TDs, 4 INTs
Season Record: 4-3
It feels like forever ago people were talking about the Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers having a bad season. Last week Rodgers played well and he followed that up with another impressive performance in Week 8.
He completed 73.7 percent of his passes for 246 yards and four touchdowns. in his Week 8 game, but his team lost. It was a shootout for sure, but with all of the injuries to the Packers it was impressive they even kept it that close.
Rodgers has been playing with no real starting running back and his weapon, TY Montgomery who has been playing running back, was out as well on Sunday. Yet, Rodgers showed his elite abilities all game and was making some big throws. He now has 17 touchdowns on the season, putting him on pace for 39 touchdown passes this season.
As the Packers get some of their player back from injury, look for them to win more games and for Rodgers to keep playing at an elite level. He is one of the best quarterbacks in the NFL, so never doubt this man again.
Oct 30, 2016; New Orleans, LA, USA; New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees (9) celebrates after a touchdown against the Seattle Seahawks during the fourth quarter of a game at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. The Saints defeated the Seahawks 25-20. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports
Drew Brees
QB, New Orleans Saints
Previous Rank: 2 (-2)
Week 8 Statistics: 27-35 (77.1%), 265 yards, 1 TD, 0 INTs
Week 8 Final Score: 25-20 (W)
Season Statistics: 214-308 (69.5%), 2,366 yards, 18 TDs, 5 INTs
Season Record: 3-4
Whenever New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees decides he is done playing the game of football, he will earn himself a trip to Canton, Ohio. There is no doubt that Brees is one of the greatest to ever play the position, so it has been a joy to watch the future Hall of Fame quarterback play.
This season has been no different, as Brees is currently on pace for 5,408 yards (which wouldn’t even be a career high), 41 touchdowns (again not a career high) and 11 interceptions (lowest of his career for 16 games). It’s just been another historic year for him yet those ridiculous numbers wouldn’t even be his best.
He’s been doing everything he can this season to get his team in the win column. It started out rough, going 0-3 to start 2016, but after winning two straight to get his Saints to a 2-3 record, Brees has split his last two games. He lost last week, but this week he got his team a huge win over the Seattle Seahawks.
Surprisingly, Brees only threw for one touchdown, but not throwing an interception is key against that elite Seahawks secondary. Brees has been a top quarterback all season and will continue to be one as he puts together an excellent statistical season.
Oct 30, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) celebrates their win against the Green Bay Packers at the Georgia Dome. The Falcons won 33-32. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports
Matt Ryan
QB, Atlanta Falcons
Previous Rank: 4 (+1)
Week 8 Statistics: 28-35 (80%), 288 yards, 3 TDs, 0 INTs
Week 8 Final Score: 33-32 (W)
Season Statistics: 193-279 (69.2%), 2,636 yards, 19 TDs, 4 INTs
Season Record: 5-3
After losing two-straight games, the Atlanta Falcons won a big game on Sunday against the Green Bay Packers. The Packers have a great quarterback, Rodgers, but on Sunday Atlanta had the best quarterback on the field, Matt Ryan.
Ryan has had a breakout year in 2016 and it continued in Week 8. He completed an impressive 80 percent of his passes for 288 yards and three touchdowns. He did not throw an interception and the win put his team at 5-3.
His performance was impressive, but what made it better was his No. 1 receiver and arguably the best receiver in the game today Julio Jones, only caught three passes for 29 yards. That meant that Ryan was finding his other targets and still dominating the game.
Atlanta and their fans have been waiting a while for Ryan to have a season like this. He is currently on pace for 5,272 yards, 38 touchdowns, and eight interceptions. If he keeps up his elite play, the Falcons will win their division and Ryan will earn himself a new contract after the year.
Oct 30, 2016; Tampa, FL, USA; Oakland Raiders offensive guard Jon Feliciano (76) and quarterback Derek Carr (4) congratulate each other after they scored a touchdown against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the second half at Raymond James Stadium. Oakland Raiders defeated the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 30-24 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Derek Carr
QB, Oakland Raiders
Previous Rank: 6 (+4)
Week 8 Statistics: 40-59 (67.8%), 513 yards, 4 TDs, 0 INTs
Week 8 Final Score: 30-24 (W)
Season Statistics: 214-323 (66.3%), 2,321 yards, 17 TDs, 3 INTs
Season Record: 6-2
For the second time this season during my NFL quarterback power rankings piece, Oakland Raiders quarterback Derek Carr is featured in the title. Luckily for the Raiders fans and Carr, I usually make the title about a quarterback who has dominated in a certain week.
Luckily once again for the Raiders fans, Carr hasn’t just dominated in Week 8, he has dominated all season long. That dominant play from their 2014 second round pick has led the Raiders to a division lead with their impressive 6-2 record.
Week 8 was a monstrous week for Carr, throwing for 513 yards and four touchdowns. For the fifth time this season, Carr did not throw an interception. More importantly, for the third time this season, Carr led his team to a game-winning drive.
That game-winning drive has the Raider Nation going wild for their young quarterback and they should be. Carr has thrown for 2,321yards and 17 touchdowns this season. He’s played great, but he has made the Raiders relevant, which is better than any stat I have listed.
Who knows how the rest of the season will pan out, but Carr is definitely going to get some MVP votes if he keeps this up.
Oct 30, 2016; Orchard Park, NY, USA; New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) throws a pass under pressure by Buffalo Bills defensive end Kyle Williams (95) as offensive guard Joe Thuney (62) blocks during the second half at New Era Field. The Patriots beat the Bills 41-25. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Hoffman-USA TODAY Sports
Tom Brady
QB, New England Patriots
Previous Rank: 1 (NC)
Week 8 Statistics: 22-33 (66.7%), 315 yards, 4 TDs, 0 INTs
Week 8 Final Score: 41-25 (W)
Season Statistics: 98-134 (73.1%), 1,319 yards, 12 TDs, 0 INTs
Season Record: 4-0
He is already the greatest quarterback of all-time in my eyes, but somehow at the age of 39, New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady is playing the best he has ever played. It has been a joy to watch him play the position, but there is something about him this year that makes it even better.
My bet would be he is playing angry because of the suspension he had to face following Deflategate. It is almost like the expression, ‘don’t poke the bear.’ That’s what the NFL did, they made the best quarterback ever angry and he is taking it out on NFL defenses.
I guess the opposing teams should deflate the football’s he is throwing because at this point, that could be the only thing to throw him off. He’s been unbelievable through four games, throwing for 1,319 yards and 12 touchdowns. Brady hasn’t thrown an interception in 134 pass attempts this season to make it even better.
If he were to play a full 16-game season, he is on pace for 5,276 yards, 48 touchdowns, and zero interceptions. It will be hard for Brady to keep this pace up, but if he can he has a chance to win MVP while only playing 12 games. The Patriots are dominating with Brady at the helm and through eight weeks, I think they are the front-runner for the AFC team to play in the Super Bowl.
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