Madden 13 Player Ratings: Upside-Heavy QBs to Trade for in This Year's Game

In the video game synonymous with the NFL, Madden ’13 (release date Aug. 28), there are three quarterbacks (at least) that have the potential of exceeding their player ratings this season.

Cam Newton, Carolina Panthers (rating: 89)

Last year’s No.1 overall pick put to rest any skepticism about his ability to play in the NFL. He threw for 4,051 yards and 21 touchdowns last season, and the sky’s the limit for him this season. His ability to rush alone separates him from the prototypical pocket QB. He scored 17 TDs and gained 706 yards on the ground.

With the turmoil in New Orleans over the bounty scandal, the NFC South is wide open for the Panthers to claim it. Also with a target like Steve Smith (79 REC, 1394 YDS, 7 TDs), expect Newton’s numbers to best his stats from year one.

Alex Smith, San Francisco 49ers (rating: 83)

Coming off his best season as a starting quarterback (3,144 YDS, 17 TDs, 5 INTs), Smith is poised to have another breakout year. Under the tutelage of second-year coach Jim Harbaugh, and with a full offseason to work with the offensive playbook, Smith’s stats should be more on par with some of the elite QBs in the NFL.

With the additions of Randy Moss, Mario Manningham (39 REC, 523 YDS, 4 TDs) and first-round pick A.J. Jenkins, Smith finally has a formidable core of options to catch passes deep, as well as underneath.

Josh Freeman, Tampa Bay Buccaneers (rating: 82)

After a great showing in 2010 (3451 YDS, 25 TDs, 6 INTs), Freeman will have to put his 2011 campaign (3592 YDS, 16 TDs, 22 INTs) behind him to have success in 2012. With new head coach Greg Schiano, Freeman will have a fresh start.

The Bucs also added some fire power at receiver, bringing in Vincent Jackson (60 REC, 1106 YDS, 9 TDs) from San Diego, a clear cut No. 1 option. Additionally, Mike Williams, who has caught 65 passes in each of his first two seasons, is another quality target for Freeman.