NFL Quarterback Power Rankings Week 4: Derek Carr Is A Star
NFL Quarterback Power Rankings after Week 4 of the 2016 season
Just like that, Week 4 is over and we head into Week 5 of the 2016 NFL season. After waiting all offseason for football to return, a quarter of the season is already over. Sad, but true. I offered my quarterback services to the Cleveland Browns last week, however I did not receive a call and they lost, again. Coincidence? I think not.
All jokes aside, the Browns are the only team without a win this season. But, in their defense, they finally started a quarterback for two straight weeks in 2016. So, yeah, that’s a victory in my book.
Week 4 featured two teams on their bye week (Philadelphia Eagles and Green Bay Packers), so the stats from the week will start to be skewed. With 30 quarterbacks playing and no ties on the week, 15 quarterbacks won and 15 quarterbacks lost.
The 30 starting quarterbacks combined for 6,846 yards passing, 47 touchdowns, and 21 interceptions. Surprisingly, after all 32 starting quarterbacks were sacked 68 times in Week 3, there were 69 total sacks in Week 4 with only 30 of them.
Before we get to the power rankings, remember that a quarterback on a bye will not move up or down. So, if a quarterback is No. 1 and on a bye, and the No. 2 quarterback throws for 600 yards and seven touchdowns, he will stay at No. 1 even though No. 2 was amazing.
With that in mind and Week 4 in the rear-view mirror, let’s get to those NFL quarterback power rankings.
Oct 2, 2016; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Jets quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick (14) during a time out against the Seattle Seahawks in the first half at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: William Hauser-USA TODAY Sports
Ryan Fitzpatrick
QB, New York Jets
Previous Rank: 32 (NC)
Week 4 Statistics: 23-41 (56.1%), 261 yards, 1 TD, 3 INT’s
Week 4 Final Score: 17-27 (L)
Season Statistics: 86-154 (55.8%), 1,012 yards, 4 TD, 10 INT’s
Season Record: 1-3
After throwing for six interceptions in Week 3, which by default puts him as the No. 32 quarterback, New York Jets quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick had another poor performance. He threw three more interceptions, putting his season total to an obvious leave leading 10. The 10 interceptions would equal 2.5 per game, or 40 for 16 game season.
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40 interceptions is unlikely, but Fitzpatrick looks like he will break his career high of 23 by the year’s end.
He has been terrible this season throwing interceptions, but he also leads the NFL with four fumbles. It’s been a bumpy road for the quarterback who contemplated retirement before the season. He made the Jets beg for his services, along with wide receivers on the team calling for him back. That may come back to bite them in the butt because there hasn’t been a worse quarterback than Fitzpatrick through four weeks.
Fitzpatrick is going to need to start winning games and proving this horrendous start of his 2016 campaign was a fluke, or he could very well be the No. 32 quarterback the rest of the season.
October 2, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers quarterback Blaine Gabbert (2) passes the football against the Dallas Cowboys during the first quarter at Levi
Blaine Gabbert
QB, San Francisco 49ers
Previous Rank: 31 (NC)
Week 4 Statistics: 16-23 (69.6%), 196 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT
Week 4 Final Score: 17-24 (L)
Season Statistics: 69-119 (58%), 728 yards, 4 TD’s, 4 INT’s
Season Record: 1-3
If it weren’t for Fitzpatrick playing putrid football, San Francisco quarterback Blaine Gabbert would hold that unwanted No. 32 ranking. When you play quarterback for Chip Kelly, your numbers are supposedly inflated. For Gabbert’s sake, lets act like that isn’t true because he has been so mediocre it hurts.
Through four games, Gabbert has only completed 58 percent of his passes for 728 yards, four touchdowns, and four interceptions. His poor play continued this week and held this team back fro winning the football game.
He only threw for 196 yards and one touchdown in the game, but it was his interception that really hurt. He had his wide receiver wide open running down the middle of the field, but Gabbert showed that his arm isn’t even close to being labeled as elite. He under threw the ball, and threw a very inaccurate pass that was intercepted.
This crucial pick was in the fourth quarter and would have give his team a shot at a big win. Instead they walked away with a seven point loss. Gabbert needs to improve because the 49ers can’t start him much longer if he counties to be so poor.
Oct 2, 2016; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots quarterback Jacoby Brissett (7) throws against the Buffalo Bills during the first half at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports
Jacoby Brissett
QB, New England Patriots
Previous Rank: 29 (-1)
Week 4 Statistics: 17-27 (63%), 205 yards, 0 TD’s, 0 INT’s
Week 4 Final Score: 0-16 (L)
Season Statistics: 34-55 (61.8%), 400 yards, 0 TD’s, 0 INT’s
Season Record: 1-1
After the New England Patriots started 3-0, their fun experiment without Tom Brady was finally over. The Patriots started the year with Jimmy Garoppolo at quarterback and he played awesome. He was dominating defense and earning himself a sizable paycheck in his future. However, a shoulder injury forced him out of their Week 3 game and in stepped their 2016 third round pick, Jacoby Brissett.
Brisset had a ton of pressure, taking on a good Houston Texans football team, but he answered the bell. He did not play great, but he led his team to a victory. Garoppolo was too injured to play in Week 4, so that meant Brissett would start the second game of his young career.
It was much different this time around. Brissett wasn’t able to do much and he couldn’t lead the Patriots offense well He only threw for 205 yards and no touchdowns. His poor play led to the Patriots losing their first game of the season, just one game before the greatest of all time returns.
Luckily for them, Brady will be back in Week 5, so we will see the third New England Patriots quarterback in the power rankings. I fully expect Brady to play well and be ranked much higher than the No. 30 spot Brissett sits at after Week 4.
Sep 29, 2016; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Miami Dolphins quarterback Ryan Tannehill (17) against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paul Brown Stadium. The Bengals won 22-7. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports
Ryan Tannehill
QB, Miami Dolphins
Previous Rank: 26 (-3)
Week 4 Statistics: 15-25 (60%), 189 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT
Week 4 Final Score: 7-22 (L)
Season Statistics: 88-138 (63.8%), 1,081 yards, 6 TD’s, 5 INT’s
Season Record: 1-3
After consulting with a few friends in a group message late one night, we all had the same question: why is Ryan Tannehill so bad?
I mean, this was his year according to many of his fans. This was going to be the year that he showed the Miami Dolphins and their fans that they have one of the best starting quarterbacks in the NFL. Well anyone that thought that was horribly wrong. Like my friends and I have been asking, why is Tannehill so bad?
I hear the excuses. His offensive line stinks. His running back is hurt. He only has one real target in the passing game. They all are valid excuses—if the quarterback is actually playing well. Tannehill isn’t. He has been playing horrible football and his throws have been off all season.
Sadly for the Miami fans, they got to see him underachieve on the big stage of Thursday Night Football. Tannehill looked like a rookie quarterback the way he navigated his offense. Outside of a breakdown in coverage that led to a bomb, Tannehill was terrible. He ended the night with 189 yards, that touchdown, and an interception. He has five interceptions on the season, putting him on pace for yet another 12 plus interception season.
Tannehill has slowly been falling in the power rankings and I would not be surprised to see him even lower next week, especially with the return of Brady.
Oct 2, 2016; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Texans defensive end Jadeveon Clowney (90) sacks Tennessee Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) during the third quarter at NRG Stadium. The Texans won 27-20. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
Marcus Mariota
QB, Tennessee Titans
Previous Rank: 27 (-1)
Week 4 Statistics: 13-29 (44.8%), 202 yards, 0 TD’s, 1 INT
Week 4 Final Score: 20-27 (L)
Season Statistics: 80-136 (58.8%), 925 yards, 4 TD’s, 5 INT’s
Season Record: 1-3
Just like Tannehill, many fans were high on Marcus Mariota entering the 2016 NFL season. The second overall pick of the 2015 NFL Draft played okay in Year 1, but saw it cut short because of injuries. Many fans and media members wanted to see what he could do when fully healthy and we have had a chance to see so far in 2016.
The results haven’t been good and, frankly, they have been alarming in my eyes. Mariota has looked like a low-tier quarterback in his second season, only leading his team to one victory. Just like Tannehill again, many will quickly defend him with the talk that his team is bad, but I am not buying it.
Mariota has one of the best rushing attacks in the NFL, which should help him throw the ball effectively, but he has been ineffective. Week 4 was his worst week. He only completed 44.8 percent of his passed for 202 yards, no touchdowns, and an interception. The pick gave him five on the season and showed that he can be careless with the football.
On the year, he has only completed 58.8 percent of his passes for four touchdowns. He threw 19 touchdowns last season, in only 12 games, but he is only on pace for 16 this season. The former Heisman Trophy winner needs to improve quickly and start to lead his team to victories.
Oct 2, 2016; Landover, MD, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Cody Kessler (6) prepares to throw the ball as Washington Redskins defensive end Trent Murphy (93) chases in the second quarter at FedEx Field. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
Cody Kessler
QB, Cleveland Browns
Previous Rank: 28 (+1)
Week 4 Statistics: 28-40 (70%), 223 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT
Week 4 Final Score: 20-31 (L)
Season Statistics: 49-73 (67.1%), 467 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT
Season Record: 0-2
It is so hard to watch the Cleveland Browns play football. As harsh as that seems, it really is the truth. They do have Terrelle Pryor, who has been awesome this season. But outside of Pryor the excitement stops.
They are starting their third quarterback of the season and Cody Kessler was the first one to play two games in a row this season. Both of those games have been losses, along with the first two games, putting the Browns at 0-4.
Kessler hasn’t been terrible, though. He completed 70 percent of his passes for 223 yards, a touchdown, and one interception. The interception will always hurt, but not winning games will hurt worse. The Browns need to figure it out or they will clearly have the top pick in the draft.
Their rookie third-round pick quarterback needs to figure it out as well because, if not, that first pick could be a player to replace him in 2017.
Oct 2, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Los Angeles Rams quarterback Case Keenum (17) celebrates after defeating the Arizona Cardinals 17-13 at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports
Case Keenum
QB, Los Angeles Rams
Previous Rank: 30 (+4)
Week 4 Statistics: 18-30 (60%), 266 yards, 2 TD’s, 0 INT’s
Week 4 Final Score: 17-13 (W)
Season Statistics: 67-121 (55.4%), 825 yards, 4 TD’s, 3 INT’s
Season Record: 3-1
I really thought Case Keenum would stay the No. 32 quarterback all season, but he is proving me wrong. Now, he isn’t playing the kind of lights-out football that gets you ranked high in the power rankings, but he is playing well enough that his team is 3-1. Not only are the Los Angeles Rams 3-1, they are leading their division.
Two of their three wins were divisional victories too, with this one coming over the Arizona Cardinals. Keenum played exactly how he need to play if the Rams are going to win. He did not turn the ball over and he did not throw a touchdown to the other team.
Instead, Keenum threw two touchdowns to his own team and also thew for 266 yards on his way to a big victory. The Rams defense is playing great so Keenum need to keep playing like this if they are going to win. He will never be a guy that wins games with his arm, but he can be a guy that wins games by being smart with the football while his team dominates.
It worked for the Denver Broncos in 2015, they won the Super Bowl, so Keenum needs to keep this up. If he does, he will slowly climb the power rankings, while his team will too.
Oct 3, 2016; Minneapolis, MN, USA; New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) throws during the third quarter against the Minnesota Vikings at U.S. Bank Stadium. The Vikings defeated the Giants 24-10. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports
Eli Manning
QB, New York Giants
Previous Rank: 20 (-5)
Week 4 Statistics: 25-45 (55.6%), 261 yards, 0 TD’s, 1 INT
Week 4 Final Score: 10-24 (L)
Season Statistics: 76-107 (71%), 925 yards, 4 TD’s, 3 INT’s
Season Record: 2-2
(INSERT ELI FACE DOT GIF)
It was one of those games for Eli Manning and the New York Giants. The “Eli Faces” were in full swing this week as Manning struggled the entire game to get anything going. He only completed 55.6 percent of his passes against the Vikings on Monday Night Football.
A lot of his passes were off target and just did not look like the Manning we are accustomed to watching play the game. The Vikings have a great defense, but that shouldn’t have made Manning throw terribly inaccurate passes the entire night.
He failed to throw a touchdown and he threw a boneheaded interception late in the game. The interception capped of a terrible performance by him and his team. The defense played poorly as well, so it was a bad game all around for the Giants.
Manning needs to play better or the Giants will continue to lose football games. That is two weeks in a row that Manning has played poorly, hence the drop all the way to No. 25 in the power rankings.
Oct 2, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals quarterback Carson Palmer (3) looks to pass during the first half against the Los Angeles Rams at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports
Carson Palmer
QB, Arizona Cardinals
Previous Rank: 18 (-6)
Week 4 Statistics: 23-36 (63.9%), 288 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT
Week 4 Final Score: 13-17 (L)
Season Statistics: 90-153 (58.8%), 1,150 yards, 6 TD’s, 5 INT’s
Season Record: 1-3
During the offseason, I predicted that the Arizona Cardinals quarterback Carson Palmer would have a bad season and so far I was right. To his credit, he played elite football in 2015. He looked phenomenal throughout the season and flashes the talent that many rave about while talking about him.
For some odd reason, I felt that his 2015 was going to be the peak for him. I just felt that he could only go down from where he was and that is what’s happening. He only has six touchdowns through four weeks, but more importantly, he has five interceptions.
He threw one of those interceptions in his Week 4 matchup while also throwing for a score and 288 yards. The biggest problem for Palmer wasn’t the interception, it was his health. He exited the game with an injury and never returned. It remains to be seen if he will play in Week 5, but if he doesn’t, we will have another quarterback featured on the power rankings.
Oct 2, 2016; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Texans quarterback Brock Osweiler (17) reacts after a failed fourth down conversion during the fourth quarter against the Tennessee Titans at NRG Stadium. The Texans won 27-20. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
Brock Osweiler
QB, Houston Texans
Previous Rank: 25 (+2)
Week 4 Statistics: 25-37 (67.6%), 254 yards, 2 TD’s, 2 INT’s
Week 4 Final Score: 27-20 (W)
Season Statistics: 90-146 (61.6%), 949 yards, 5 TD’s, 6 INT’s
Season Record: 3-1
It is pretty hard to hate on a quarterback who has led his team to a 3-1 record through four weeks, but Houston Texans quarterback Brock Osweiler hasn’t been as impressive as he could be. After signing a monster deal in the offseason, expectations are high for him and in my opinion, he hasn’t even come close to meeting them yet.
The former Super Bowl champion (I love saying that) has had trouble with turning the ball over all season and it continued in Week 4. He came into the game with four interceptions and left it with six. His two picks kept a game that should have been an easy win for his team close. Was we get closer to the playoffs, letting a team hang around like Osweiler did on Sunday will result in a loss.
He did throw for 254 yards and two touchdowns, but the turnovers will be the story until he can get them right. Then Texans have a solid defense, even without J.J. Watt, so he needs to help his team out and stop turning the ball over. If he can’t do that, it looks like the Texans made a poor move signing him because he is just hindering his team.
He needs to get his mind right and go out to pay a turnover free game. If he can do that, he will move up in the power rankings.
Oct 2, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton (1) walks off of the field after getting injured in the fourth quarter of their game against the Atlanta Falcons at the Georgia Dome. The Falcons won 48-33. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports
Cam Newton
QB, Carolina Panthers
Previous Rank: 17 (-5)
Week 4 Statistics: 14-25 (56%), 165 yards, 1 TD, 0 INT’s
Week 4 Final Score: 33-48 (L)
Season Statistics: 77-133 (57.9%), 974 yards, 6 TD’s, 5 INT’s
Season Record: 1-3
Last season, the Carolina Panthers lost one game the entire regular season. The ultimately lost two when they were defeated in the Super Bowl. The devastating loss in the Super Bowl may still be lingering over their heads in the 2016 NFL season because they have been bad.
Through four weeks, the Panthers have already lost three games and their quarterback Cam Newton can take the blame for that. He has not played well, considering he won MVP and Offensive Player of the Year last season. Those awards seem to be long gone as Newton dropped five more spots in the rankings to No. 22.
His stats aren’t terrible in this game, one touchdown and no interceptions, but he was injured in the game. The injury will be something to monitor because if he can’t go, we will see yet another starting quarterback added to the power rankings.
If he can go, Newton need to improve. He needs to stop forcing throws and understand that he may not be the MVP this year, but he needs to be a leader for his team. The Panthers will go as far as Newton wants to take them, so he needs to get his mind right and start getting back in the win column.
Oct 2, 2016; Tampa, FL, USA; Denver Broncos quarterback Trevor Siemian (13) looks on from the sidelines during the second half against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Trevor Siemian
QB, Denver Broncos
Previous Rank: 13 (-8)
Week 4 Statistics: 5-7 (71.4%), 68 yards, 1 TD, 0 INT’s
Week 4 Final Score: 27-7 (W)
Season Statistics: 68-101 (67.3%), 824 yards, 6 TD’s, 3 INT’s
Season Record: 4-0
When you look at what Denver Broncos quarterback Trevor Siemian did in his first away start, you would think that the young signal-caller was poised for a big year. I mean, he threw for 312 yards, four touchdowns, and no interceptions. It was impressive what he did, but how would he do in the next game?
Well, he started okay, going 5-for-7 for 68 yards and a touchdown to start the game. But then one of the worst aspects of football happened. He got injured.
The injury was a bummer because it seemed that Siemian was going to have a solid day in the office. Instead, he was on the sideline watching 2016 first round pick Paxton Lynch calling the shots. It is still unknown if Siemian will be able to play next week, so we may get a new quarterback to the power rankings.
However, since he could not finish the game, which is important, Siemian finds himself falling eight spots in the rankings. If he plays in Week 5 and plays well again, he will obviously move back up.
Oct 2, 2016; Tampa, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Jameis Winston (3) talks with Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Dirk Koetter during the second half against the Denver Broncos at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jonathan Dyer-USA TODAY Sports
Jameis Winston
QB, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Previous Rank: 10 (-10)
Week 4 Statistics: 17-35 (48.6%), 179 yards, 0 TD’s, 2 INT’s
Week 4 Final Score: 7-27 (L)
Season Statistics: 103-177 (58.2%), 1,108 yards, 8 TD’s, 8 INT’s
Season Record: 1-3
The hot-and-cold season from Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Jameis Winston continues. After watching him climb eight spots in the power rankings last week, Winston falls ten after his Week 4 performance.
In Week 3, Winston shined when he threw for 405 yards and three touchdowns. He showed the flashes of greatness that allowed him to get drafted number one overall in the 2015 NFL Draft. Getting selected No. 1, the pressure is on Winston to succeed. However, it hasn’t been that way so far in 2016.
Through four games, he has only completed 58.2 percent of his passes for 1,108 yards, eight touchdowns, and a poor eight interceptions. The eight interceptions is what will hurt him all season, with two of them coming in Week 4. They lead to losses and just poor outings, so he needs to clean his game up if he wants his team to win games.
Winston has a ton of talent, but he hasn’t been able to translate it consistently to the football field. He need to start doing that or he could drop even more in the power rankings.
Oct 2, 2016; Foxborough, MA, USA; Buffalo Bills quarterback Tyrod Taylor (5) throws a pass against the New England Patriots in the second quarter at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports
Tyrod Taylor
QB, Buffalo Bills
Previous Rank: 23 (+4)
Week 4 Statistics: 27-39 (69.2%), 246 yards, 1 TD, 0 INT’s
Week 4 Final Score: 16-0 (W)
Season Statistics: 74-116 (63.8%), 773 yards, 4 TD’s, 2 INT’s
Season Record: 2-2
Whenever you beat the New England Patriots, you move up in the power rankings. I mean, they were starting their third string quarterback and were bound to lose while they wait for Brady to return, but still. The Buffalo Bills should still be happy with their Week 4 victory over them by a count of 16-0.
It’s been an up and down year for them, but this may be the time when Tyrod Taylor starts to find his groove. After a rough start to the season, Taylor had the kind of game he needs to have if they are going to win.
He did not throw an interception, but he had 246 yards passing and a touchdown. If he can counties to do just enough for his defense and rushing attack to help take over, the Bills can win more football games. Taylor also did this without his star wide receiver Sammy Watkins and he most likely will be playing the rest of the season without him. It is a huge blow, but Taylor needs to be the leader of the team and move past it.
He also needs to keep playing turnover free football and leading his team to victory.
Oct 2, 2016; London, United Kingdom; Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Blake Bortles (5) kicks the ball into the crowd after scoring on a 1-yard touchdown run in the second quarter against the Indianapolis Colts during game 15 of the NFL International Series at Wembley Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Blake Bortles
QB, Jacksonville Jaguars
Previous Rank: 24 (+6)
Week 4 Statistics: 19-33 (57.6%), 207 yards, 2 TD’s, 0 INT’s
Week 4 Final Score: 30-27 (W)
Season Statistics: 98-160 (61.3%), 1,050 yards, 7 TD’s, 6 INT’s
Season Record: 1-3
Blake Bortles has been struggling this season with turning the football over. Through three weeks, he had thrown six interceptions and only five touchdowns. Throwing picks has always been a knock on Bortles. And I said that, if he continued to throw them, he would keep dropping in the power rankings.
Playing in London, Bortles must have received the memo because he did not throw an interception in his Week 4 matchup with the Indianapolis Colts. Instead, he threw for 207 yards and two touchdowns. He also ran for a touchdown, giving him three total on the day.
He climbs six spots in the rankings and to counteract what I said about him throwing picks; if he continues to play well without throwing picks, he will continues to climb in the power rankings. To make that even better, the Jaguars will win more football games too. So it’s a win-win for Bortles to take care of the football!
Oct 2, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Detroit Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford (9) throws a pass during the first half against the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Wierzbicki-USA TODAY Sports
Matthew Stafford
QB, Detroit Lions
Previous Rank: 8 (-9)
Week 4 Statistics: 23-36 (63.9%), 213 yards, 0 TD’s, 2 INT’s
Week 4 Final Score: 14-17 (L)
Season Statistics: 104-156 (66.7%), 1,198 yards, 7 TD’s, 4 INT’s
Season Record: 1-3
Just when you think a player is going to have a huge game, they play terrible. That was the case for the Detroit Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford. Stafford and his Lions took on the Chicago Bears in a Week 4 matchup. The Bears secondary is pretty horrendous and it seemed as if the Lions would throw all over them.
Just like we all predicted, the game was close and low scoring. The Lions ended up losing to the Bears 14-17, highlighting their poor performance. That poor performance was led by Stafford. Coming into the game with seven touchdowns, Stafford left the game with only seven touchdowns. He only threw for 213 yards, no touchdowns, and two interceptions.
The two interceptions were costly, especially only losing by three. Stafford need to make sure he can get his mind right for Week 5. The Lions take on the Eagles and they have made opposing quarterbacks look silly. If any quarterback can have a good game against them, though, it will be Stafford. However, if he plays poorly again, he will see his name fall even farther next week in the rankings.
Oct 2, 2016; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers outside linebacker Jarvis Jones (95) returns an interception against Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Alex Smith (11) during the first quarter at Heinz Field. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
Alex Smith
QB, Kansas City Chiefs
Previous Rank: 15 (-1)
Week 4 Statistics: 30-50 (60%), 287 yards, 2 TD’s, 1 INT
Week 4 Final Score: 14-43 (L)
Season Statistics: 109-168 (64.9%), 1,073 yards, 5 TD’s, 2 INT’s
Season Record: 2-2
If the Kansas City Chiefs get down big, early, the game is over. They aren’t built to come back in games, but instead they are built to have the lead and keep it that way. Why? Their quarterback Alex Smith.
Smith is a solid talent, he was selected number one overall back in the day, but he also has limits. He isn’t a guy that can go out and throw for 300 plus yards and three touchdowns every single week. He is what we all love to call, a game-manager. There is nothing wrong with that, and it actually works well for him, but it is times like Week 4 where it hurts.
The Steelers jumped out to a quick lead and the Chiefs couldn’t recover. Smith doesn’t have the ability to start slinging it around the field to play catchup and that is why you saw the Chiefs get demolished. Smith did throw the ball 50 times in the game, but only for 287 yards and two touchdowns. He needs to do better if the Chiefs are going to win, but more importantly, he needs his defense to let him get an early lead next week if he wants to be higher in the rankings.
Oct 2, 2016; London, United Kingdom; Indianapolis Colts quarterback Andrew Luck (12) celebrates after throwing a 64-yard touchdown pass in the fourth quarter against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Wembley Stadium. The Jaguars defeated the Colts 30-27. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Andrew Luck
QB, Indianapolis Colts
Previous Rank: 5 (-10)
Week 4 Statistics: 27-42 (64.3%), 234 yards, 2 TD’s, 1 INT
Week 4 Final Score: 27-30 (L)
Season Statistics: 103-166 (62%), 1,147 yards, 8 TD’s, 3 INT’s
Season Record: 1-3
As his career progresses, Indianapolis Colts quarterback Andrew Luck has been so frustrating. He has all the talent in the world. Coming out of college, he was the highest quarterback I have ever graded while scouting and it looked like he was ready to take over the NFL.
Instead, he has become a player that is getting excuses made up for him. Great players do not need excuses, they find answers. Yes, getting sacked six times in Week 4 was frustrating, but Luck was actually pretty bad in the game.
There were times he would flash that amazing arm talent that everyone raved about as he entered the league and then there were times his accuracy was on the level on Tim Tebow. Yeah, I said it. Luck has been that and this season with his accuracy. After watching all of his throws this week, Luck doesn’t deserve to be in the top 10. I was even tempted to drop him lower, but I will be the guy who makes an excuse and says his team stinks.
However, I watched Luck miss too many throws to use too many excuses. The worst one game in the red zone when he had his receiver wide open coming across the middle, but saw him late. He threw an inaccurate pass that took himont of bounds and did not throw for the easy touchdown he had.
Luck needs to find consistency, and fast.
Sep 29, 2016; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Andy Dalton (14) against the Miami Dolphins at Paul Brown Stadium. The Bengals won 22-7. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports
Andy Dalton
QB, Cincinnati Bengals
Previous Rank: 19 (+5)
Week 4 Statistics: 22-31 (71%), 296 yards, 1 TD, 0 INT’s
Week 4 Final Score: 22-7 (W)
Season Statistics: 97-146 (66.4%), 1,234 yards, 3 TD’s, 2 INT’s
Season Record: 2-2
When you have one of the best receivers in the game and he is going against a backup corner, what do you do? You get him the rock. And you get him the rock A LOT. That is exactly what Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Andy Dalton did in their Week 4 matchup against the Miami Dolphins on Thursday Night Football.
He had his star wideout A.J. Green on a corner who had no business covering him. That matchup was exploited the entire night and Green was putting up video game numbers on as he dominated the game. Because of his receiver doing so well, Dalton obviously did well too. He was putting the ball where it needed to be on Thursday night and leading his team to an easy victory.
Dalton did not play this crazy game, but he played well enough to make sure he climbed in the power rankings and his team walked away victorious. That is all you can ask from your starting quarterback. He completed 71 percent of his passes for 296 yards and one touchdown.
The one touchdown was to Green, but it was mainly Green who did the work on the play. He broke a tackle and almost walked into the end zone, highlighting his night. Both of these two have a great connection and this game made the evident. Look for them to get together again in Week 5 against the Cowboys.
Oct 2, 2016; Baltimore, MD, USA; Baltimore Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco (5) walks off the field after a turnover in the fourth quarter against the Oakland Raiders at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Evan Habeeb-USA TODAY Sports
Joe Flacco
QB, Baltimore Ravens
Previous Rank: 16 (+3)
Week 4 Statistics: 32-52 (61.5%), 298 yards, 1 TD, 0 INT’s
Week 4 Final Score: 27-28 (L)
Season Statistics: 108-170 (63.5%), 1,072 yards, 4 TD’s, 4 INT’s
Season Record: 3-1
The Baltimore Ravens entered the week undefeated, standing at 3-0. One big part of this was that their quarterback Joe Flacco, who is coming back from an ACL injury, was leading his team to victories. Flacco will always catch a lot of heat because of the huge contract he signed after he won the Super Bowl, but he really does have a ton of arm talent.
You always hear it but it is true, he may have the strongest arm in the NFL and he has been showing that off so far this season. It has been amazing to see what he has done, especially to have been coming back from such a big injury so soon. Flacco has been looking good, but not great yet. I feel that if he can play a couple more weeks, just to get some more rust off, he may be back to the elite level that won him that Super Bowl.
However, in Week 4, he did not of enough to win the game. He threw for 298 yards and a touchdown and no interceptions. It wasn’t a great game, but it was a good game, though his defense was torched for four passing touchdowns.
Flacco is looking like he could start to get in a groove this season and be a top 10 quarterback in the power rankings. Time will tell, but keep an eye on the former Delaware quarterback as his team is coming off of their first loss of the year.
Oct 2, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Brian Hoyer (2) throws a pass during the first quarter against the Detroit Lions at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Wierzbicki-USA TODAY Sports
Brian Hoyer
QB, Chicago Bears
Previous Rank: 21 (+9)
Week 4 Statistics: 28-36 (77.8%), 302 yards, 2 TD’s, 0 INT’s
Week 4 Final Score: 17-14 (W)
Season Statistics: 67-97 (69.1%), 697 yards, 4 TD’s, 0 INT’s
Season Record: 1-1
Say what you want, Brian Hoyer should start the rest of the season for the Chicago Bears. I was mixed on it before, but he has proven that he is the better option at this point for them. Jay Cutler has failed and it is time to move on from the gunslinger. He doesn’t give you any shot at winning a Super Bowl and just promises you mediocre play.
Hoyer is not superstar, but he has been playing awesome in his first two starts. After throwing for two touchdowns and not interceptions in his first start, Hoyer followed that up with yet another two touchdown and no interception games.
He also throw for 302 yards and completed 77.8 percent of his passes in Week 4. Moral of the story, Hoyer has actually been one of the better quarterbacks so far in 2016. The Bears walked away with a much-needed victory this week and I can see them winning more games if Hoyer continues to play well.
I fully expect him to remain the starter the rest of the season and would love to see him crack the top 10 before the year ends.
Oct 2, 2016; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson (3) throws the ball to running back Christine Michael (32) against the New York Jets in the second half at MetLife Stadium. Seattle defeated New York 27-17. Mandatory Credit: William Hauser-USA TODAY Sports
Russell Wilson
QB, Seattle Seahawks
Previous Rank: 22 (+11)
Week 4 Statistics: 23-32 (71.9%), 309 yards, 3 TD’s, 0 INT’s
Week 4 Final Score: 27-17 (W)
Season Statistics: 87-133 (65.4%), 1,064 yards, 5 TD’s, 1 INT
Season Record: 3-1
I have been very critical of Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson this season. He has been playing injured, but I have alway argued that is not an excise to play bad. If it is used as an excuse, that player shouldn’t be in the game.
Wilson has made no excuses, mainly because he hasn’t had the time since he has been rehabbing so many injuries to start the year. First it was his ankle and then it was his knee. Whatever ailment he had on Sunday, it did not show.
He played lights out and dominated the game for the first time in 2016. A lot of people are high on Wilson, and I have never been one of those people. But his game in Week 4 impressed me. He ended the day completing 71.9 percent of his passes for 309 yards and three touchdowns. He did not throw an interception and led his team to a much-needed victory after their stinker in Week 3 against the Rams.
If he can keep playing at a high level, even while being banged up, Wilson could end the year a top 10 quarterback.
Oct 3, 2016; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings quarterback Sam Bradford (8) throws during the first quarter against the New York Giants at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports
Sam Bradford
QB, Minnesota Vikings
Previous Rank: 11 (+1)
Week 4 Statistics: 26-36 (72.2%), 262 yards, 1 TD, 0 INT’s
Week 4 Final Score: 24-10 (W)
Season Statistics: 66-95 (69.5%), 719 yards, 4 TD’s, 0 INT’s
Season Record: 3-0
The big question was whether Sam Bradford would be able to handle yet another trade in his mediocre career. The Eagles did him dirty, trading him just nine days before the regular season. He was preparing to start for the Eagles and then in an instant, he was now preparing to start for the Vikings.
Was it a good move giving up a first round pick and a fourth round pick for a quarterback who hasn’t proved anything in his career? That remains to be seen, but Bradford has played the best three games of his life for Minnesota this season.
I watched the entire Vikings game on Monday Night Football and I came away impressed, but at the same time angry while watching him play. He was making some incredibly accurate passes throughout the game, but mainly they were just short passes. I felt that Bradford wasn’t letting his arm go like he could have, which would have resulted in more points for his team.
However, the Vikings defense is so good and they only need a quarterback who can manage the game. So, that is exactly what Bradford has been doing and doing it well. He is 3-0 to start the year and the Vikings are 4-0 (shoutout to Shaun Hill).
Oct 2, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) throws the ball during the first quarter against the San Francisco 49ers at Levi
Dak Prescott
QB, Dallas Cowboys
Previous Rank: 14 (+5)
Week 4 Statistics: 23-32 (71.9%), 245 yards, 2 TD’s, 0 INT’s
Week 4 Final Score: 24-17 (W)
Season Statistics: 89-131 (67.9%), 1,012 yards, 3 TD’s, 0 INT’s
Season Record: 3-1
There has been a ton of hype regarding rookie sensation Dak Prescott. He just continues to answer it as he failed to turn the ball over for the fourth week in a row. The result of his ball security is the Dallas Cowboys are currently second in the NFC East, sitting at 3-1.
In those four games, Prescott has progressed and impressed with his ability. He has been able to rely on his rushing attack to help set up his pass plays, but the balance has been perfect for the Cowboys. They have been able to make sure they put their rookie in goof places all game and do not make him throw any big passes.
In their win over the 49ers, Prescott did not throw one pass over 20 yards. While this is obviously a knock for him, it also just shows the Cowboys have been smart while using their reliever as they wait for Tony Romo. And yes, Romo will be the starter when he is healthy enough to do so. Prescott has been solid, moving all the way to No. 9 in the power rankings, but Romo is the better talent. So, before the year is over, there will be a new Cowboys quarterback in the top 10.
Oct 2, 2016; Landover, MD, USA; Washington Redskins tight end Jordan Reed (86) celebrates with teammates after catching a touchdown pass from Redskins quarterback Kirk Cousins (8) against the Cleveland Browns in the first quarter at FedEx Field. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
Kirk Cousins
QB, Washington Redskins
Previous Rank: 12 (+4)
Week 4 Statistics: 21-27 (77.8%), 183 yards, 3 TD’s, 1 INT
Week 4 Final Score: 31-20 (W)
Season Statistics: 100-151 (66.2%), 1,172 yards, 6 TD’s, 4 INT’s
Season Record: 2-2
You may not be drinking the Kirk Cousins Kool-Aid, but a lot of people are starting to enjoy the new flavor in 2016!
With many, including myself, calling out Cousins for his poor play to start the season, it seemed like the Redskins could be doomed. Instead, Captain Kirk decided to show the NFL and his team why he did not sign a contract in the offseason. He wants to show everyone he deserves big money and he has balled out the last two weeks.
Cousins dominated Week 4, throwing for three touchdowns. His yardage may have only been at 183, but he competed 77.8 percent of his passes and only turned the ball over once. He need to cut down on the turnovers, but the Redskins will enjoy their two-game win streak regardless of how many picks he has thrown.
If the Redskins are going to win the NFC East or make the playoffs, it is going to be because Cousins plays well. He moves up four spots and finds himself in the top 10 at No. 8 this week in the power rankings.
Oct 2, 2016; San Diego, CA, USA; San Diego Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers (17) reacts after the Chargers gave up a fumble during the fourth quarter against the New Orleans Saints at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports
Philip Rivers
QB, San Diego Chargers
Previous Rank: 7 (NC)
Week 4 Statistics: 28-43 (65.1%), 321 yards, 2 TD’s, 1 INT
Week 4 Final Score: 34-35 (L)
Season Statistics: 96-142 (67.6%), 1,110 yards, 7 TD’s, 1 INT
Season Record: 1-3
I always feel bad for really good quarterbacks that get dealt poor hands. I do not know Philip Rivers personally, but my guess would be that he likes or has at least played the game of poker. In poker, you get you cards and your either hold them or fold them. Rivers never folds, which is what I love about him.
The worst hand to be dealt in the game of poker is a 7-2 off-suit. I would compares the San Diego Chargers pass-catchers to a 7-2 off-suit right now. Why? He lost his No. 1 wide receiver Keenan Allen to a torn ACL and then later lost his best pass-catching running back, Danny Woodhead to the same injury.
Even with the poor hand he has been dealt, Rivers is keeping a good poker face. He has been carrying his team, with the help of his running back Melvin Gordon. Rivers did not throw an interception leading up to his Week 4 game, but he finally threw one, which lost his team the game.
You could argue that he should drop even further because of it, however to see him do what he has been doing; there is no way that will happen. People love to make excuses for quarterbacks, but Rivers doesn’t need them because he goes out there and plays 100 percent, no matter what.
Oct 2, 2016; San Diego, CA, USA; New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees (9) looks on during a pause in play during the fourth quarter in the game against the San Diego Chargers at Qualcomm Stadium. New Orleans won 35-34. Mandatory Credit: Orlando Ramirez-USA TODAY Sports
Drew Brees
QB, New Orleans Saints
Previous Rank: 3 (-3)
Week 4 Statistics: 23-36 (63.9%), 207 yards, 2 TD’s, 2 INT’s
Week 4 Final Score: 35-34 (W)
Season Statistics: 116-176 (65.9%), 1,269 yards, 10 TD’s, 3 INT’s
Season Record: 1-3
When I see the name Drew Brees, I think first ballot Hall of Fame quarterback. I think of one of the best to ever play the game, on and off of it. I also think about a player who can make the most out of what he is given and 2016 is highlighting that.
No offense to Brees, but his team stinks again. However, with his team stinking up the place, he has quietly started hot for another big year. Brees has thrown for 1,269 yards, putting him on pace for another 5,000 yard season. Along with his impressive yardage numbers, Brees has thrown 10 touchdowns to only three interceptions.
The reason he dropped this week in the power rankings, however, was because two of those three interceptions came in Week 4. Brees played the worst game of his season, only throwing for 207 yards, the two interceptions, and two touchdowns.
He is clearly the one who makes this team go, so if he can keep playing at a high level, the Saints can win more games. Though, it is hard to lead your team to a victory when your defense is so poor.
Oct 2, 2016; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) looks to pass against the Kansas City Chiefs during the first half at Heinz Field. Mandatory Credit: Jason Bridge-USA TODAY Sports
Ben Roethlisberger
QB, Pittsburgh Steelers
Previous Rank: 9 (+4)
Week 4 Statistics: 22-27 (81.5%), 300 yards, 5 TD’s, 0 INT’s
Week 4 Final Score: 43-14 (W)
Season Statistics: 92-145 (63.4%), 1,116 yards, 11 TD’s, 4 INT’s
Season Record: 3-1
One of my favorite ways to tell if a quarterback has ‘it’ is what they do after the face adversity. Last week, the Pittsburgh Steelers and their quarterback Ben Roethlisberger got worked by the Eagles. It was an embarrassing showing for their offense as they did not even score a touchdown. Roethlisberger turned the ball over twice and did not play well at all.
The Steelers had to play the Chiefs on Sunday Night Football after their loss to the Birds, so they were in the spotlight. I can 100% tell you that Roethlisberger has ‘it.’ I mean the guy did win two Super Bowl’s, but he still has it. He balled out and made sure his team wouldn’t be embarrassed any longer.
He threw for 300 yards while completing 81.5 percent of his passes. Both of these stats are impressive, but his five touchdowns passes stole the show. He bounced back from his poor game in Week 3 with a monstrous game in Week 4.
That is why he moved up four spots and is in the top five. He also leads the NFL with 11 touchdown passes and did not turn the ball over this week.
Oct 2, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Aldrick Robinson (19) celebrates his touchdown catch from quarterback Matt Ryan (2) in the third quarter of their game against the Carolina Panthers at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports
Matt Ryan
QB, Atlanta Falcons
Previous Rank: 6 (+2)
Week 4 Statistics: 28-37 (75.7%), 503 yards, 4 TD’s, 1 INT
Week 4 Final Score: 48-33 (W)
Season Statistics: 101-140 (72.1%), 1,473 yards, 11 TD’s, 2 INT’s
Season Record: 3-1
Whoa!
Matt Ryan put on a passing clinic in Week 4.
The Atlanta Falcons quarterback has taken some heat over the years for not being one of the best quarterbacks in the league. They selected him third overall in the 2008 NFL Draft and have yet to win two playoff games with him as their quarterback.
It hasn’t been what the Falcons have wanted, however in 2016 he is showing signs of hope. The former Boston College quarterback has balled out this season, but Week 4 was a different kind of balling.
He ended the game with a season high and career high 503 passing yards. Those passing yard helped put him first in the NFL for passing yards with 1,473, putting him on pace for 5,892 yards. Now, he will never end with that many yards, but he has a real shot at throwing for 5,000 this season. Not only does he lead the league in passing yards, but his four touchdowns gave him 11 on the year. The 11 touchdowns have him first and on pace for a ridiculous 44 touchdown passes.
Ryan has only thrown two interceptions and if it wasn’t for the one he threw in Week 4, he may have been the No. 3 quarterback. Regardless, Ryan has been awesome through four weeks and will definitely be a top quarterback this season if he keeps it up.
Oct 2, 2016; Baltimore, MD, USA; Oakland Raiders wide receiver Michael Crabtree (15) celebrates his game winning touchdown catch against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium with quarterback Derek Carr (4) and running back Jalen Richard (30). Mandatory Credit: Mitch Stringer-USA TODAY Sports
Derek Carr
QB, Oakland Raiders
Previous Rank: 4 (+1)
Week 4 Statistics: 25-35 (71.4%), 199 yards, 4 TD’s, 0 INT’s
Week 4 Final Score: 28-27 (W)
Season Statistics: 104-153 (68%), 1,066 yards, 9 TD’s, 1 INT
Season Record: 3-1
The title says it all, Derek Carr is a star.
Raiders fans, and of course my main man and NFL Spin Zone co-worker Maurice Moton, STAND UP! This team is for real and the reason for that is because their quarterback is a stud.
With all of the hype going to the rookie quarterbacks, we are missing out on giving credit to the job Carr has done so far in 2016. The man is the real deal and has been quietly leading the Raiders to three big wins through four weeks.
Through those four weeks, Carr has completed 68 percent of his passes for 1,066 yards, putting him on pace for 4,264 yards. He has also thrown nine touchdown passes and one interception. That would give him 36 touchdown passes and only four interceptions, which is crazy good.
The Raiders needed a score to win the game and Carr led them down the field for that. It was his league leading second game-winning drive this season. He has been a beast and Raiders fans have something to be excited about.
Sep 25, 2016; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (12) during the game against the Detroit Lions at Lambeau Field. Green Bay won 34-27. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
Aaron Rodgers
QB, Green Bay Packers
Previous Rank: 2 (BYE WEEK)
Week 4 Statistics: BYE WEEK
Week 4 Final Score: BYE WEEK
Season Statistics: 55-94 (58.5%), 617 yards, 7 TD’s, 1 INT
Season Record: 2-1
After a dominant Week 3 where he threw for four touchdowns and no interceptions, Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers found himself up 11 spots in the rankings at No. 2. Luckily for Rodgers, his team was on their Bye Week in Week 4, so by default he sits as the No. 2 quarterback for a second straight week.
Through three games, Rodgers has led his team to a 2-1 record. The Packers always have a chance to win when he is under center and he hasn’t even played his best this season. He has only thrown for 617 yards, which is on the lower end for Rodgers, but if you take away the outrageous four touchdown game, he has only thrown three touchdowns in two weeks.
Yet, the Packers are still winning, which is scary for the rest of the NFL. While he continues to find his groove the Packers will keep getting better. They will go as far as Rodgers will take them. If he can keep having games where he throws four touchdowns and no interceptions, he could find himself as the No. 1 quarterback.
Sep 25, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Carson Wentz (11) reacts after his 73 yard touchdown pass against the Pittsburgh Steelers during the third quarter at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
Carson Wentz
QB, Philadelphia Eagles
Previous Rank: 1 (BYE WEEK)
Week 4 Statistics: BYE WEEK
Week 4 Final Score: BYE WEEK
Season Statistics: 66-102 (64.7%), 769 yards, 5 TD’s, 0 INT’s
Season Record: 3-0
Some people may be mad as they see Carson Wentz as the No. 1 quarterback for the second week in a row, but remember it is by default because of his Bye Week. Although, if I did move quarterbacks on their Bye Week, Wentz would still be in the top 5, easily.
The rookie quarterback has been amazing through the first three games of his career. The Eagles mortgaged the future in some people’s eyes when they traded all the way up to the second overall pick in the 2016 NFL Draft. Wentz is making those people look silly right now, though, as it seems the future could be now for the Eagles.
After the Giants got embarrassed on Monday Night Football and the Cowboys barley beat Gabbert and the 49ers, Wentz’s Eagles may be the team to beat in the NFC East. If he can continue to play at a high level and get his team to 4-0 in Week 5, it will be hard for the Eagles not to make the playoffs.
Obviously Wentz will play some bad games, he is a rookie, but the Birds arent acting like he is. They have given him the keys to the offense and let just play the game of football. His poise and command of the hardest position in sports has been unbelievable.
Look for Wentz to shine once again in Week 5 and show that he is currently the top quarterback in 2016.