NFL Week 17 Predictions: Projecting the Week's Top QB Performances

In Week 17 of the NFL season, the following quarterbacks are projected to have top performances:

Matthew Stafford, Detroit Lions

Why wouldn't the Lions go all-out to win in Week 17? A win guarantees that they don't have to return to the Superdome in the Wild Card Round. Their best shot at a win goes through the right arm of Stafford, which has produced some elite numbers since shaking off a finger injury that plagued him during the middle of the season.

We all know how vulnerable the Packers pass defense has been in 2011, too. Expect a big performance.

Tom Brady, New England Patriots

The Patriots are still playing for home-field advantage in Week 17, so Brady should see a full work load. If that's the case, look out. While the Bills played well in the first meeting (intercepted Brady four times) and are coming off a game in which they picked off Tim Tebow a quartet of times, Brady is on a different level right now.

At home, playing for a Super Bowl run through Gillette Stadium, Brady will shine.

Drew Brees, New Orleans Saints

The Saints are going to know somewhat earlier what their chances are at sneaking into the NFC's No. 2 seed, as the 49ers take on the 2-14 Rams during the same time slot on Sunday.

However, coach Sean Payton has said this week that he won't be scoreboard watching. If Brees gets to play the whole game, there's no reason to think he won't add another 300 yards or so to his new NFL record.

Cam Newton, Carolina Panthers

You have to love the way Newton has closed out the season. He's thrown for seven touchdowns over his last three games, while rushing for seven scores over his last seven. That's the kind of finish you want to see out of your young quarterback.

And don't forget, Newton threw for 224 yards and two scores (plus 27 yards and a touchdown rushing) against the Saints back in Week 5. Expect similar numbers on Sunday.

Eli Manning, New York Giants

Manning has been terrible the last two weeks, but it's hard to forget his 400-yard, two touchdown performance in a comeback win in Dallas three weeks ago. Now, he gets that same defense coming into his house.

There should be enough confidence in this matchup for Manning to play well again.