Cleveland Browns

NFL Quarterback Power Rankings 2016: Kirk Cousins Cashing In

Published Jun. 30, 2017 6:28 p.m. ET

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NFL Quarterback Power Rankings for Week 13 of the 2016 season

Week 12 has come to a close and the Cleveland Browns are still winless. Luckily for the Browns, I don’t get to make the joke of them playing multiple quarterbacks in a game because they only had one signal-caller for the entire game. Though, the real joke is their entire team, so at least we can still laugh at their 0-12 record.

Sadly, the Browns wont win a game in Week 13 because they have their bye week, but that also means they wont lose for the 13th-straight week, so that’s a win in my eyes.

This was an odd week because there were three Thursday games (Thanksgiving) and there were also no byes. That meant 32 quarterbacks plays and, since there were no ties, 16 quarterbacks won and 16 lost.

Last week only featured 28 starting quarterbacks, but with four more starers in Week 12, the 32 signal-callers threw for 1,455 more yards with their 8,186 yards. They also threw for 59 touchdowns, which was 16 more than last week. The quarterbacks did throw for 20 interceptions, which was three more than last week, but isn’t a terrible number. Although, they were sacked 68 times, so they may be a little sore during the week.

With all of that in mind, lets get to the NFL Quarterback Power Rankings as we say goodbye to Week 12 and head into Week 13.

Nov 24, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Ross Cockrell (31) tackles Indianapolis Colts quarterback Scott Tolzien (16) as he throws a pass in the second half at Lucas Oil Stadium. The Steelers won 28-7. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports

Scott Tolzien

QB, Indianapolis Colts

Previous Rank: NR

Week 12 Statistics: 22-36 (61.1%), 205 yards, 1 TD, 2 INTs
Week 12 Final Score: 7-28 (L)
Season Statistics: 22-36 (61.1%), 205 yards, 1 TD, 2 INTs
Season Record: 0-1

Making his first start since 2013 and just the third start of his career, Indianapolis Colts backup quarterback Scott Tolzien started on Thanksgiving for the Colts. He started out well, but as the game wore on, you saw why he is a backup quarterback. Tolzien ended the day with one touchdown and two interceptions, as his team got spanked, 28-7.

Andrew Luck should be back from his concussion in Week 13, so it was nice to have Tolzien find his way in the power rankings at No. 32.

Nov 27, 2016; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Texans quarterback Brock Osweiler (17) walks off the field after a play in the fourth quarter against the San Diego Chargers at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

Brock Osweiler

QB, Houston Texans

Previous Rank: 26 (-5)

Week 12 Statistics: 22-37 (59.5%), 246 yards, 0 TDs, 3 INTs
Week 12 Final Score: 13-21 (L)
Season Statistics: 238-400 (59.5%), 2,307 yards, 12 TDs, 13 INTs
Season Record: 6-5

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If it wasn’t for Tolzien starting Week 12, there is no doubt in my mind that Houston Texans quarterback Brock Osweiler would have been the last raked quarterback. He has taken a ton of heat this season and deservedly so. Instead of using the heat to be a better quarterback, Osweiler went out this week and threw three interceptions.

To make his three interceptions worse, his team only lost by eight points, so he played a huge role in their loss. In his last six games, he has four touchdown passes and five interceptions. Osweiler has been horrible this season and it looks like the Texans lost their money paying him big.

But hey, when you can go out and get a Super Bowl champion quarterback on your team for $72 million, you pretty much have to do it—right?

Nov 27, 2016; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick (7) throws a pass against the Miami Dolphins during the second half at Hard Rock Stadium. The Dolphins won 31-24. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

Colin Kaepernick

QB, San Francisco 49ers

Previous Rank: 31 (+1)

Week 12 Statistics: 29-46 (63%), 296 yards, 3 TDs, 1 INT
Week 12 Final Score: 24-31 (L)
Season Statistics: 115-208 (55.3%), 1,440 yards, 10 TDs, 3 INTs
Season Record: 0-6

San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick has taken a knee during the national anthem in all six of his starts this season and he has lost in all six of those games. Although, he did play a solid game this weekend, so he moves up one spot in the power rankings.

He ended the day with 296 yards and three scores. He also ran for 113 yards in the game and looked like the old Kaepernick that went to the Super Bowl in 2013. If he can keep up that play, he will continue to climb, but he also needs to lead his team to a much needed victory.

Nov 27, 2016; Orchard Park, NY, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Blake Bortles (5) takes the snap during the first half against the Buffalo Bills at New Era Field. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-USA TODAY Sports

Blake Bortles

QB, Jacksonville Jaguars

Previous Rank: 29 (NC)

Week 12 Statistics: 13-26 (50%), 126 yards, 2 TDs, 0 INTs
Week 12 Final Score: 21-28 (L)
Season Statistics: 263-441 (59.6%), 2,749 yards, 20 TDs, 13 INTs
Season Record: 2-9

If you have been reading along with my quarterback power rankings this season, you know that I am not high on Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Blake Bortles. Well, the Jaguars is officially on my “that team need a new quarterback” list. He has been terrible the year and, even though he threw for two scores and no interceptions this week, he ended with only 126 yards.

He also only completed 50 percent of his passes and showed me that the future of the franchise should no longer depend on him, unless they want to keep losing.

Nov 27, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Josh McCown (13) lays on the ground after a sack by New York Giants defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul (90) during the second half at FirstEnergy Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports

Josh McCown

QB, Cleveland Browns

Previous Rank: NR

Week 12 Statistics: 25-43 (58.1%), 322 yards, 1 TD, 0 INTs
Week 12 Final Score: 13-27 (L)
Season Statistics: 90-165 (54.5%), 1,110 yards, 6 TDs, 6 INTs
Season Record: 0-3

Before each game, the Cleveland Browns pick a quarterbacks name out of a hat and that determines who will start for them that week (probably). This week, Josh McCown was lucky enough to grace us. McCown hasn’t won a game all season and has taken a back seat to a rookie quarterback, Cody Kessler, who has been horrible. That’s not a good formula to winning and the Browns lost again.

Nov 27, 2016; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Jets quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick (14) throws the ball against the New England Patriots during the first quarter at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

Ryan Fitzpatrick

QB, New York Jets

Previous Rank: NR

Week 12 Statistics: 22-32 (68.8%), 269 yards, 2 TDs, 0 INTs
Week 12 Final Score: 17-22 (L)
Season Statistics: 190-330 (57.6%), 2,252 yards, 10 TDs, 13 INTs
Season Record: 2-7

New York Jets quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick is a smart dude. He went to Harvard, so I know that he can look at his 2-7 record as a starter this year and understand how poorly he has played. However, in his defense, Fitzpatrick played a good game against the New England Patriots, but the Jets couldn’t finish. He threw for two scores and zero interceptions.

Nov 27, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Arizona Cardinals quarterback Carson Palmer (3) calls a play at the line of scrimmage as Atlanta Falcons defensive end Tyson Jackson (94) is shown in the first quarter of their game at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports

Carson Palmer

QB, Arizona Cardinals

Previous Rank: 25 (-1)

Week 12 Statistics: 25-45 (55.6%), 289 yards, 2 TDs, 1 INT
Week 12 Final Score: 19-38 (L)
Season Statistics: 252-414 (60.9%), 2,931 yards, 15 TDs, 11 INTs
Season Record: 3-6-1

The down year for the Arizona Cardinals and their quarterback Carson Palmer continues. A 19-point spanking should put the cherry on top of a terrible season and also cement that it is time to find the future of their franchise in the 2017 NFL Draft. Palmer has regressed a ton and doesn’t look like he is the guy you want leading your team any longer.

He ended the day with 289 yards and two scores, but he did throw another interception to bring his total to 11 through 10 starts. He needs to improve or he may have trouble starting anywhere in 2017.

Nov 27, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos quarterback Trevor Siemian (13) prepares to pass in a overtime period against the Kansas City Chiefs at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. The Chiefs defeated the Broncos 30-27 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

Trevor Siemian

QB, Denver Broncos

Previous Rank: 30 (+5)

Week 12 Statistics: 20-34 (58.8%), 368 yards, 3 TDs, 0 INTs
Week 12 Final Score: 27-30 (L)
Season Statistics: 195-325 (60%), 2,396 yards, 15 TDs, 7 INTs
Season Record: 7-3

I will always give credit where credit is due, even if that means eating my own words. That is the case, for the second time this season, with Denver Broncos quarterback Trevor Siemian. I have been critical of his ability and play, so he went out there and sliced the defense for 368 yard passing and three scores.

I still think he isn’t the future of the Broncos, but if he can put some more games together like he did in Week 12, I will gladly eat my words again.

Nov 24, 2016; Detroit, MI, USA; Minnesota Vikings quarterback Sam Bradford (8) drops back to pass during the first quarter of a NFL game on Thanksgiving against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports

Sam Bradford

QB, Minnesota Vikings

Previous Rank: 19 (-5)

Week 12 Statistics: 31-37 (83.8%), 224 yards, 0 TDs, 1 INT
Week 12 Final Score: 13-16 (L)
Season Statistics: 248-348 (71.3%), 2,415 yards, 12 TDs, 3 INTs
Season Record: 5-5

With Siemian, I said how I would eat my words when I am wrong. Well, with Minnesota Vikings quarterback Sam Bradford, I will gloat when I am right. This is one of those, “I told you so” moments. Bradford has always been overrated to me and I have always looked at him as a mediocre quarterback. After a red-hot start, people came after me and told me I was wrong, but I just sat here waiting for the real Bradford to show. And he did on Thanksgiving when he threw a game-losing interception and threw short of the sticks all game.

Nov 27, 2016; Baltimore, MD, USA; Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Andy Dalton (14) pressured by Baltimore Ravens linebacker Terrell Suggs (55) at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mitch Stringer-USA TODAY Sports

Andy Dalton

QB, Cincinnati Bengals

Previous Rank: 22 (-1)

Week 12 Statistics: 26-48 (54.2%), 283 yards, 1 TD, 0 INTs
Week 12 Final Score: 14-19 (L)
Season Statistics: 259-408 (63.5%), 3,043 yards, 12 TDs, 6 INTs
Season Record: 3-7-1

The only thing the Cincinnati Bengals fans have to smile about when they think of their quarterback Andy Dalton is the fact that play the Philadelphia Eagles next week. Other than that, it hasn’t been pretty for him. Dalton is having a poor year and it is highlighting his mediocre traits at the quarterback position.

He needs to improve and have a big game this week or it may be time for the Bengals to give up on the Dalton experiment.

Oct 20, 2016; Green Bay, WI, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Matt Barkley (12) during warmups prior to the game against the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field. Green Bay won 26-10. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

Matt Barkley

QB, Chicago Bears

Previous Rank: NR

Week 12 Statistics: 28-54 (51.9%), 316 yards, 3 TDs, 2 INTs
Week 12 Final Score: 21-27 (L)
Season Statistics: 34-69 (49.3%), 397 yards, 3 TDs, 4 INTs
Season Record: 0-1

When your team drops 10 of your passes and 11 if you nitpick like I do, you deserve to get some credit, even if your numbers aren’t too good. Chicago Bears third string quarterback Matt Barkley was out there balling in Week 12. The former No. 1 high school quarterback and USC Trojan had the best game of his career in just his first start.

He may have thrown two interceptions, but his three touchdowns were impressive and he should have had a fourth to win the game if it hadn’t been dropped. Barkley always been an afterthought in Chicago, but maybe he can turn into something special? Lets give him some more time and find out.

Nov 27, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Alex Smith (11) passes in the first quarter against the Denver Broncos at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports

Alex Smith

QB, Kansas City Chiefs

Previous Rank: 21 (NC)

Week 12 Statistics: 26-44 (59.1%), 220 yards, 1 TD, 0 INTs
Week 12 Final Score: 30-27 (W)
Season Statistics: 229-346 (66.2%), 2,297 yards, 10 TDs, 4 INTs
Season Record: 7-3

Alex Smith played such an Alex Smith game on Sunday that it was beautiful. The Kansas City Chiefs threw the ball more than I am used to seeing, but Smith did well enough to help manage his team to a victory. He ended the day with 220 yards and one touchdown. Most importantly, though, he helped earn KC a win. He has his team in perfect position to make the payoffs at 8-3 and he just needs to play his game by managing the team to a win.

Nov 27, 2016; New Orleans, LA, USA; Los Angeles Rams quarterback Jared Goff (16) drops back to pass against the New Orleans Saints during the third quarter of a game at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. The Saints defeated the Rams 49-21. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

Jared Goff

QB, Los Angeles Rams

Previous Rank: 27 (+7)

Week 12 Statistics: 20-32 (62.5%), 214 yards, 3 TDs, 1 INT
Week 12 Final Score: 21-49 (L)
Season Statistics: 37-63 (58.7%), 348 yards, 3 TDs, 1 INT
Season Record: 0-2

I see you, Jared Goff! The No. 1 overall pick was out there throwing dimes on Sunday, ending the day with three touchdown passes. He did turn the ball over, but he is a rookie and that is expected. His head coach could be his toughest opponent, but hopefully they will develop him right, because he has glimpses of greatness in his game. Please tell me again, why was Case Keenum starting over Goff for so long?

Nov 27, 2016; Baltimore, MD, USA; Baltimore Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco (5) changes the play at the line of scrimmage in the third quarter against the Cincinnati Bengals at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Evan Habeeb-USA TODAY Sports

Joe Flacco

QB, Baltimore Ravens

Previous Rank: 20 (+1)

Week 12 Statistics: 25-36 (69.4%), 234 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT
Week 12 Final Score: 19-14 (W)
Season Statistics: 285-450 (63.3%), 2,877 yards, 11 TDs, 10 INTs
Season Record: 6-5

No. 19 is a good spot for Baltimore Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco because he has played below average this season. He is coming off of a torn ACL, so I am sure that plays into it. But he is on the field so that is no excuse.

Flacco led his team to a big victory while throwing for 234 yards and a score. He completed 69.4 percent of his passes, but he did throw another interception, giving him 10 this season.

Nov 27, 2016; Tampa, FL, USA; Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson (3) drop back against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the second half at Raymond James Stadium. Tampa Bay Buccaneers defeated the Seattle Seahawks 14-5. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Russell Wilson

QB, Seattle Seahawks

Previous Rank: 14 (-4)

Week 12 Statistics: 17-33 (51.5%), 151 yards, 0 TDs, 2 INTs
Week 12 Final Score: 5-14 (L)
Season Statistics: 238-368 (64.7%), 2,865 yards, 11 TDs, 4 INTs
Season Record: 7-3-1

I have watched a lot of film on quarterbacks in my lifetime and I have watched a lot of Russell Wilson film, too. Week 12 could have been the worst I have ever seen him play, ending the day with 151 yards passing on 33 attempts with zero touchdown and two bad interceptions.

Sorry Wilson crazies, he has to be down in the power rankings. His last interception was a simple cover-2, but Wilson forced the throw. It just wasn’t a good game of him and one for him to throw away from his memory.

Nov 27, 2016; Oakland, CA, USA; Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton (1) celebrates the touchdown scored by running back Jonathan Stewart (28) against the Oakland Raiders during the second half at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Cam Newton

QB, Carolina Panthers

Previous Rank: 16 (-1)

Week 12 Statistics: 14-29 (48.3%), 246 yards, 2 TDs, 1 INT
Week 12 Final Score: 32-35 (L)
Season Statistics: 189-339 (55.8%), 2,432 yards, 13 TDs, 8 INTs
Season Record: 4-6

2015 MVP, Offensive Player of the Year, and Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton hasn’t come close to playing at the level he elevated himself to last season. It has been a lackluster year for him, to say the least.

Newton continued his poor play, throwing an interception for a touchdown in Week 12. He only completed 48.3 percent of his passes in the game and has only completed 55.8 percent this year. The man who is called SuperCam may need Superman to come help him before it’s too late.

Nov 27, 2016; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Miami Dolphins quarterback Ryan Tannehill (17) yells out from the line of scrimmage gains the San Francisco 49ers during the second half at Hard Rock Stadium. The Dolphins won 31-24. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

Ryan Tannehill

QB, Miami Dolphins

Previous Rank: 23 (+7)

Week 12 Statistics: 20-30 (66.7%), 285 yards, 3 TDs, 0 INTs
Week 12 Final Score: 31-24 (W)
Season Statistics: 217-329 (66%), 2,574 yards, 15 TDs, 8 INTs
Season Record: 7-4

Shoutout to Ryan Tannehill for once again making me look silly. He dominated the game on Sunday, throwing for 285 yards and three scores. He did not throw an interception to make his game even better. He has now thrown nine touchdowns and only one interception in his last five games. He has been on the low-end of the power rankings, but he is making his way to the top, especially after a dominant performance like in Week 12.

Nov 27, 2016; Orchard Park, NY, USA; Buffalo Bills quarterback Tyrod Taylor (5) throws a pass during the second half against the Jacksonville Jaguars at New Era Field. Buffalo defeated Jacksonville 28-21. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-USA TODAY Sports

Tyrod Taylor

QB, Buffalo Bills

Previous Rank: 18 (+3)

Week 12 Statistics: 12-18 (66.7%), 166 yards, 1 TD, 0 INTs
Week 12 Final Score: 28-21 (W)
Season Statistics: 193-313 (61.7%), 2,101 yards, 11 TDs, 4 INTs
Season Record: 6-5

Tyrod Taylor has become a game-manager, even if he hasn’t tried to. Rex Ryan is known for having a ground attack before a passing attack and that was the case in Week 12. Taylor only threw the ball 18 times, but the Bills walked away with the victory.

He did not throw an interception and has only thrown four the entire year. He takes care of the football while managing the game well—what more could you ask from him?

Nov 27, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) congratulates wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. (13) on his touchdown reception during the fourth quarter against the Cleveland Browns at FirstEnergy Stadium. The Giants won 27-13. Mandatory Credit: Scott R. Galvin-USA TODAY Sports

Eli Manning

QB, New York Giants

Previous Rank: 17 (+3)

Week 12 Statistics: 15-27 (55.6%), 194 yards, 3 TDs, 0 INTs
Week 12 Final Score: 27-13 (W)
Season Statistics: 261-413 (63.2%), 2,902 yards, 20 TDs, 10 INTs
Season Record: 8-3

The most impressive aspect of the New York Giants 8-3 record is the fact that is hasn’t been impressive. They have been winning close and ugly games, but getting the job done when it matters most.

What makes their 8-3 start interesting is the fact that Eli Manning has been off so far in 2016. So, if he heats up, watch out. Manning threw for three scores and no interceptions in Week 12 and looks like he could be ready for another historic postseason run.

Nov 28, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Carson Wentz (11) throws a pass against the Green Bay Packers during a NFL football game at Lincoln Financial Field.The Packers defeated the Eagles 27-13. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Carson Wentz

QB, Philadelphia Eagles

Previous Rank: 13 (NC)

Week 12 Statistics: 24-36 (66.7%), 254 yards, 0 TDs, 1 INT
Week 12 Final Score: 13-27 (L)
Season Statistics: 249-392 (63.5%), 2,593 yards, 11 TDs, 8 INTs
Season Record: 5-6

If you watched the Philadelphia Eagles take on the Green Bay Packers, you may have had some questions about who their wide receivers were after Jordan Matthews got hurt. Their quarterback, Carson Wentz, looked poised to have a big game after he carved through the Packers secondary in the first quarter. Once Matthews got injured, though, things got ugly.

They had two rookie undrafted free agents starting at receiver the rest of the game, who both did not play well. Wentz finished with 254 yards and no scores, with a bad pick that sailed on him, but you can’t blame the loss on the rookie.

His offensive line was made up of three backups and one rookie who made his first start to go with the problem of having no receivers. He also had a rookie fifth-round pick as his lead running back, so the cards that Wentz was dealt were ugly. Yet he still showed he is the real deal.

Nov 27, 2016; Houston, TX, USA; San Diego Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers (17) passes against the Houston Texans in the second half at NRG Stadium. San Diego Chargers won 21-13. Mandatory Credit: Thomas B. Shea-USA TODAY Sports

Philip Rivers

QB, San Diego Chargers

Previous Rank: 12 (NC)

Week 12 Statistics: 22-30 (73.3%), 242 yards, 3 TDs, 1 INT
Week 12 Final Score: 21-13 (W)
Season Statistics: 251-399 (62.9%), 3,128 yards, 23 TDs, 12 INTs
Season Record: 5-6

I have said it all year, Philip Rivers has been a top quarterback because the veteran has done a lot with a little. Like Wentz, Rivers has been dealt some bad cards, but he has the experience to make sure it doesn’t matter.

He completed 73.3 percent of his passes and threw for three scores this week while leading his team to a 21-13 victory. Without Rivers, this Chargers team could have the top pick in the draft. But instead, they are 5-6.

Nov 27, 2016; Tampa, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Jameis Winston (3) smiles as he pumps his fist against the Seattle Seahawks during the second half at Raymond James Stadium. Tampa Bay Buccaneers defeated the Seattle Seahawks 14-5. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Jameis Winston

QB, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Previous Rank: 11 (NC)

Week 12 Statistics: 21-28 (75%), 220 yards, 2 TDs, 1 INT
Week 12 Final Score: 14-5 (W)
Season Statistics: 249-406 (61.3%), 2,900 yards, 22 TDs, 11 INTs
Season Record: 6-5

After starting 1-3, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are showing they aren’t out of the playoffs just yet. The main reason for their success is their starting quarterback, Jameis Winston. He has been playing well and he did great against a Seattle Seahawks secondary that is regarded as one of the best in the league.

He competed 75 percent of his passes for 220 yards and two scores. More importantly, the Buccaneers kept their chances at the Wild Card in tact.

Nov 24, 2016; Arlington, TX, USA; Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) rolls out to score a touchdown against the Washington Redskins during the second half at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

Dak Prescott

QB, Dallas Cowboys

Previous Rank: 8 (-2)

Week 12 Statistics: 17-24 (70.8%), 195 yards, 1 TD, 0 INTs
Week 12 Final Score: 31-26 (W)
Season Statistics: 231-340 (67.9%), 2,835 yards, 18 TDs, 2 INTs
Season Record: 10-1

Yes, even though the Dallas Cowboys won and Dak Prescott played well, he drops two spots in the power rankings. I know that may ruffle some feathers, but let me start by saying Prescott played the perfect game.

If the Cowboys can allow him to mange the game and take care of the football with easy reads, they have a shot to go far in the playoffs. Prescott is a rookie and the Cowboys are making sure he doesn’t need to play like one by having the best offensive line in football opening huge holes for Ezekiel Elliott.

You saw in the game just how far away Prescott is from becoming an elite passer, as he was outplayed by the Washington Redskins quarterback Kirk Cousins. However, Prescott is becoming an elite game-manager and winning is the most important statistic.

Nov 27, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Tennessee Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) passes during the second half against the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field. Tennessee won 27-21. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Wierzbicki-USA TODAY Sports

Marcus Mariota

QB, Tennessee Titans

Previous Rank: 9 (NC)

Week 12 Statistics: 15-23 (65.2%), 226 yards, 2 TDs, 0 INTs
Week 12 Final Score: 27-21 (W)
Season Statistics: 243-378 (64.3%), 2,998 yards, 25 TDs, 8 INTs
Season Record:

21 touchdowns and three interceptions. Those are the numbers Tennessee Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota has put up over the last eight games. He has also added two rushing scores to that total, so 23 total touchdowns over eight games is impressive.

Unlike Prescott, Mariota isn’t loaded with weapons and the Titans rely on him a lot to make things happen. He has delivered and then some, putting up great numbers in his second season. Also remember, the Titans traded the No. 1 pick away and got a plethora of picks in return. They have their quarterback position locked down for sure, so now they can go get him weapons.

Nov 28, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (12) throws a pass against the Philadelphia Eagles during a NFL football game at Lincoln Financial Field.The Packers defeated the Eagles 27-13. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Aaron Rodgers

QB, Green Bay Packers

Previous Rank: 10 (+2)

Week 12 Statistics: 30-39 (76.9%), 313 yards, 2 TDs, 0 INTs
Week 12 Final Score: 27-13 (W)
Season Statistics: 289-449 (64.4%), 3,074 yards, 27 TDs, 7 INTs
Season Record: 5-6

The Philadelphia Eagles cornerbacks are having nightmares about Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers right now after what he did to them on Monday Night Football. He dominated the game, completing 76.9 percent of his passes for 313 yards and two scores. The Eagles had no answer for Rodgers and he may have saved their season with his dominant performance.

Nov 24, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) against the Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium. The Steelers won 28-7. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports

Ben Roethlisberger

QB, Pittsburgh Steelers

Previous Rank: 7 (NC)

Week 12 Statistics: 14-20 (70%), 221 yards, 3 TDs, 0 INTs
Week 12 Final Score: 28-7 (W)
Season Statistics: 242-373 (64.9%), 2,745 yards, 23 TDs, 7 INTs
Season Record: 6-4

Ben Roethlisberger continues to dominate this season. He threw for three scores on Sunday, which gave him six games this season when he has thrown for three or more. In only 10 games, Roethlisberger has thrown for 23 touchdown passes. That would put him on pace for 37 in a full 16-game season.

If he can keep playing like this and get the Steelers into the playoffs, I like the Steelers chances against anybody, because Roethlisberger has been that good.

Nov 27, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) passes against the Arizona Cardinals during the second half at the Georgia Dome. The Falcons defeated the Cardinals 38-19. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports

Matt Ryan

QB, Atlanta Falcons

Previous Rank: 2 (-4)

Week 12 Statistics: 26-34 (76.5%), 269 yards, 2 TDs, 1 INT
Week 12 Final Score: 38-19 (W)
Season Statistics: 262-380 (68.9%), 3,516 yards, 26 TDs, 6 INTs
Season Record: 7-4

A couple of weeks ago, Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan was looked at as potential MVP candidate. Now, he may still be one in some people’e eyes. However, he has been thrown to the back-burner in mine.

Ryan had a solid game, completing 76.5 percent of his passes for 269 yards and two scores. However, the other quarterbacks ahead of him have elevated their games to a level he has missed out on for a couple off weeks. He will need to have a big game next week if he wants to remain in the MVP conversation.

Nov 24, 2016; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford (9) throws the ball during the first quarter against the Minnesota Vikings at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports

Matthew Stafford

QB, Detroit Lions

Previous Rank: 5 (NC)

Week 12 Statistics: 23-40 (57.5%), 232 yards, 1 TD, 0 INTs
Week 12 Final Score: 16-13 (W)
Season Statistics: 261-391 (66.8%), 2,883 yards, 19 TDs, 5 INTs
Season Record: 7-4

I am someone who loves to watch good quarterback play more than good defense, so that is why I love watching the Detroit Lions. Now, their defense isn’t bad at all and is actually good at times, but I just love to watch their quarterback Matthew Stafford throw the football.

Stafford is great at changing platforms and delivering the ball perfectly. His sidearm throws are some of the prettiest I have ever witnessed and he was dialed in on Thanksgiving. Taking on the Minnesota Vikings, who are looked at as one of the best defenses in the league, Stafford was dealing early.

However, it was his late game throws that made me keep him as a top five quarterback. Stafford drove his team 98 yards to tie the game with his elite accuracy and big time throws. His best was when he got hit while throwing, but still delivered a perfect dime to move the chains.

The Lions defense made a play at the end of the game, so Stafford took a knee and let his field goal kicker win the game. But, that kneel down allowed Stafford to earn his league leading seventh game-winning drive. The guy is a winner and his arm is leading the way.

Nov 27, 2016; New Orleans, LA, USA; New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees (9) looks to throw against the Los Angeles Rams in the second half at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. The Saints won, 49-21. Mandatory Credit: Chuck Cook-USA TODAY Sports

Drew Brees

QB, New Orleans Saints

Previous Rank: 6 (+2)

Week 12 Statistics: 28-36 (77.8%), 310 yards, 4 TDs, 0 INTs
Week 12 Final Score: 49-21 (W)
Season Statistics: 326-456 (71.5%), 3,587 yards, 30 TDs, 8 INTs
Season Record: 5-6

Playing against a rookie quarterback, New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees taught the kid a lesson on how you can become a Hall of Fame player. Brees played dominant football in the game, throwing for 310 yards and four touchdowns. He also did not throw an interception and completed an impressive 77.8 percent of his passes.

On the year, Brees has completed what will be a career high 71.5 percent of his passes. He also has thrown for 3,587 yards and 30 touchdowns. That puts him on pace for 5,218 yards and 44 touchdowns. It would be his fifth year over 5,000 yards and give him his 11th year over 4,000.

There is no doubt that Brees will be a first ballot Hall of Fame quarterback, but there is doubt on whether the Saints can make a run this year. At 5-6, they need to make sure they deliver the rest of the season. At least they know their quarterback will, so the players around him need to be better.

Nov 27, 2016; Oakland, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders quarterback Derek Carr (4) reacts after the Raiders converted a two-point conversion against the Carolina Panthers in the fourth quarter at Oakland Coliseum. The Raiders defeated the Panthers 35-32. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports

Derek Carr

QB, Oakland Raiders

Previous Rank: 3 (NC)

Week 12 Statistics: 26-38 (68.4%), 315 yards, 2 TDs, 1 INT
Week 12 Final Score: 35-32 (W)
Season Statistics: 281-423 (66.4%), 3,115 yards, 22 TDs, 5 INTs
Season Record: 9-2

This pains me to write, but I have Derek Carr sitting at No. 3 in the power rankings. If I had to vote today for the NFL MVP, I am voting for Carr. He has been amazing this season and the Oakland Raiders are 9-2. That alone should give him votes for the MVP, but his play is the reason behind it.

Carr was dialed in once again when his team needed him most, throwing a fourth quarter touchdown pass and leading a late drive for a game-winning field goal. This was Carr’s fifth game-winning drive of the season and if the Raiders are going to keep winning, they need Carr to keep delivering late.

The former second-round pick is looking to cement himself as one of the greatest draft picks in Raiders history as he carves through defenses. He has 22 touchdowns on the year and only five interceptions, showing that he takes care of the football. He has been awesome this year and I wish I could rank him higher, but I feel that the two quarterbacks ahead of him have played better.

Nov 27, 2016; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) drops back to pass against the New York Jets during the fourth quarter at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

Tom Brady

QB, New England Patriots

Previous Rank: 1 (-1)

Week 12 Statistics: 30-50 (60%), 286 yards, 2 TDs, 0 INTs
Week 12 Final Score: 22-17 (W)
Season Statistics: 175-256 (68.4%), 2,201 yards, 18 TDs, 1 INTs
Season Record: 6-1

For the first time in six weeks, New England Patriots quarterback and the greatest quarterback of all-time, Tom Brady is not the No. 1 quarterback in the power rankings. I know what you are thinking and I just felt that the quarterback who is No. 1 this week deserve every bit of the love from that No. 1 spot, more than Brady.

That doesn’t mean Brady had a bad game because he didn’t. It just means the No. 1 quarterback has been crazy good and I had to give the respect to him.

Brady has been great all year, throwing 18 touchdowns and only one interception. Without him—yes, I know this is hard for you Patriots haters to understand—this team wouldn’t be where it is. They may have started 3-1 when he was suspended, but they need Brady to win late in the year.

He has been playing so good that a Super Bowl appearance could be in his near future. The Patriots defense needs to step up their game, but with Brady, you can win any game you are in. It will be interesting to see what happens if he keeps this high level of play up because he could also sneak in and win the MVP.

Nov 24, 2016; Arlington, TX, USA; Washington Redskins quarterback Kirk Cousins (8) throws the ball against the Dallas Cowboys during the second half at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

Kirk Cousins

QB, Washington Redskins

Previous Rank: 4 (+3)

Week 12 Statistics: 41-53 (77.4%), 449 yards, 3 TDs, 0 INTs
Week 12 Final Score: 26-31 (L)
Season Statistics: 299-437 (68.4%), 3,540 yards, 20 TDs, 7 INTs
Season Record: 6-4-1

This is going to take a lot of heat, but I am ready to fight it off with cold hard facts. The fact is, Washington Redskins quarterback Kirk Cousins is a baller. This guy is out there throwing lasers and making ridiculously good, accurate passes.

Carr will get all of the hype for MVP and deservedly so because his team is winning. But no quarterback has been as hot as Cousins over the last two games. He has thrown for three scores in both of his last two games and, this week, he threw for 449 yards.

I have been noticing that his deep ball accuracy could be the best in the NFL. He has been finding the deep man and hitting him in stride. However, it isn’t the throw I am most impressed with. It is his elite ability to look defenders off. On Thanksgiving, he had Cowboys defenders thinking they were bringing out a turkey on the other side of the field as he would quickly go back the other way and throw for a score. His deep ball to DeSean Jackson that went for a 67-yard touchdown was beautiful. He looked the safety off left and threw a deep dime to the right.

Kirk Cousins has been getting better each week and the Redskins better open up their pocketbooks now. This guy is cashing in, big time.

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