NFL Quarterback Power Rankings, Post-Week 4

Now that we've reached the quarter mark of the NFL season, we're already seeing some teams starting to panic. The Bills have benched their first-round quarterback from a year ago after he started just 14 games in the NFL.

Who would have thought the Giants would wake up thanks to the electric play of an ascending Eli Manning?

Is Philip Rivers ready to take over the No. 1 spot in the power rankings? Also, it sure is good to see Aaron Rodgers playing like the guy we've come to expect over the years.

Teddy Bridgewater showed off what he could do in his first start and was incredible.

I bet everyone expected the last unbeaten teams in the NFL would be the Arizona Cardinals and the Cincinnati Bengals, right?

It's impossible to predict what will happen next in this roller coaster of an NFL season.

Methodology

Patrick Smith/Getty Images

These rankings factor in several major attributes for the quarterback position.

Personal observation and opinion play a key role. A general section for film-review grades form a foundation, but the output of these QBs' most recent performances is what really sends them flying up and down the rankings each week.

Wins also give quarterbacks a slight boost in addition to their individual performances. The statistics used to help determine the ranking system are pulled from ESPN.com, NFL.com and Pro Football Focus (subscription required) unless stated otherwise.

Stats that are factored in include passer rating, completion percentage, yards per pass, rushing yards per game, touchdown-to-interception ratio, fumbles lost and wins.

As the season moves on, the weighted influence from last year's output will be reduced by 25 percent each week. After Week 4, the preseason will not factor into the rankings at all.

Note: Total QBR is a scoring system that assesses everything a quarterback does on the field. It is explained further on ESPN.com.

Also, Pro Football Focus grades every single play of the season to generate a cumulative point total, which weighs into the metric as well.

Players Ranked Last Week Who Are Not Listed This Week

Wade Payne/Associated Press

Jake Locker, Tennessee Titans

He injured his right wrist in Week 3. Jim Wyatt of The Tennessean reported it was a "strain" (h/t Ian Rapoport of NFL.com).

Last Ranked: 29th

32. Geno Smith, New York Jets

Kathy Willens/Associated Press

This Week

32

Geno Smith and the Jets played host to the league's top-ranked defense in Week 4 as they looked to even out their 1-2 record. This exciting matchup between two of the best defensive lines in football didn't end well for Smith, as he was limited to just over 50 percent passing.

Not surprisingly, he failed to take advantage of a defense that made Aaron Rodgers look like a backup—the Lions held the Packers QB to just seven points in Week 3. At least the Jets were able to put up 17 points.

The frustration mounted for Smith, as he topped off his day with a verbal altercation with fans on his way to the locker room.

Week 4 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
Lions	L 17-24	17	33	51.5	209	1	1

 

Season Average

28

Smith has the potential to be a very good starting QB in this league as the game slows down for him with more experience. Turnovers and a lack of offensive weapons continue to haunt him

The best ranking Smith had came after a solid Week 1 performance that he has failed to replicate. Since then his play has declined.

A solid running game has kept the Jets competitive for the most part this season.

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
1	Raiders	W 19-14	23	28	82.1	221	1	1	28
2	@ Green Bay	L 24-31	16	32	50	176	1	1	23
3	Bears	L 19-27	26	43	60.5	316	1	2	27
4	Lions	L 17-24	17	33	51.5	209	1	1	30

Next Week Outlook

The Jets travel all the way to San Diego to face the red-hot Chargers. This secondary is underrated and has one of the best cornerback tandems in the league with Brandon Flowers and rising star Jason Verrett, who is just a rookie.

For Smith, this could be his last opportunity to show that he deserves to be the starting quarterback.

31. Derek Carr, Oakland Raiders

Lefteris Pitarakis/Associated Press

This Week

31

Derek Carr suffered an ankle and MCL injury late in the third quarter and was replaced by second-year backup Matt McGloin. At that time, the game was already 31-7 in favor of Miami.

In all, the night belonged to the Dolphins, and there was very little either Oakland QB could do to change that.

Week 4 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
MIA	L 14-38	16	25	64.0	146	1	1

 

Season Average

30.8

Carr and his receivers just don’t seem to be on the same page. Either way, when it comes to getting open, his receivers aren't giving him much help.

Carr is struggling as the Raiders starter, but that is not all his fault. He has actually looked surprisingly good under pressure, which was a big concern before the draft.

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
1	@ NYJ	L 14-19	20	32	62.5	151	2	0	31
2	Houston	L 14-30	27	42	64.3	263	1	2	31
3	@ NE	L 9-16	21	34	61.8	174	0	1	30
4	MIA	L 14-38	16	25	64.0	146	1	1	31

 

Next Week Outlook

Luckily for Carr, the Raiders are one of two teams to have a Week 5 bye. This might be enough time for the rookie to heal what is reported to be a high ankle and MCL sprain, per Chris Wesseling of NFL.com.

30. Charlie Whitehurst, Tennessee Titans

Darron Cummings/Associated Press

This Week

30

Tennessee Titans QB Jake Locker missed the Colts game with a wrist injury. According to Paul Kuharsky of ESPN.com, head coach Ken Whisenhunt said fill-in starter Charlie Whitehurst "did a good job of running the Titans' offense, even as it was a poor offensive performance."

Week 4 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
@ IND	L 17-41	12	23	52.2	177	1	1

 

Season Average

30

In his first game of the season, Whitehurst put up pedestrian numbers, and he should not be starting ahead of rookie Zach Mettenberger—regardless of what the head coach tells the media.

Mettenberger showed his potential with several outstanding performances this preseason despite being fresh off rehab for a blown-out knee in during his final season at LSU.

He is athletic.

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
1	@ Chiefs	W 26-10	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
2	Dallas	L 10-26	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
3	@ CIN	L 7-33	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
4	@ IND	L 17-41	12	23	52.2	177	1	1	N/A

 

Next Week Outlook

Will Locker be ready to face the Browns this Sunday? The quarterback's status for Week 5 is still uncertain. If Whitehurst gets the nod, expect another Titans loss.

29. Drew Stanton, Arizona Cardinals

Matt York/Associated Press

This Week

29

Drew Stanton had the week off where he could enjoy a 2-0 start as a starter with an organization that is excited about rookie QB Logan Thomas.

Week 4 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
Bye	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A

 

Season Average

31

Stanton has played well in his role as a backup, but even though he has exceeded expectations, there are still some issues with his accuracy. With that said, he has yet to throw an interception or lose a game.

Stanton's aggressive style of play has worked out so far. While his 51.6 percent completion percentage is the lowest of any QB on the list, a more important stat is his 2-0 record. The better he plays, the faster Carson Palmer will try to get back on the field.

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
1	San Diego	W 18-17	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
2	@ Giants	W 25-14	14	29	48.3	167	0	0	N/A
3	SF	W 23-14	18	33	54.5	244	2	0	32
4	Bye	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	32

 

Next Week Outlook

This could be the last we see of Stanton this year. The Cardinals return from a bye this week to face the Denver Broncos, and Palmer may return to the starting lineup, but things are not looking that optimistic for the starter.

With a nerve issue keeping him out of the last two games, the hope was that Palmer would be good to go this weekend. After his nerve "woke up" last week, the progress he had hoped for has not happened as quickly as desired, according to the official team site.

“I was hoping to be throwing more than I am," Palmer said. "It's slowly improving. Nothing ever improves as fast as you want it to. I'll just continue to stay on what I have been doing and hopefully it continues to progress."

Can Stanton actually compete against Peyton Manning and the Broncos?

28. EJ Manuel, Buffalo Bills

Scott Halleran/Getty Images

This Week

28

Against the Texans, EJ Manuel had possibly his worst day as a pro, completing just 47.7 percent of his passes on 44 attempts. On the plus side, his two TD passes marked the first time this year he has thrown multiple touchdowns in a single game.  

Week 4 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
@ HOU	L 17-23	21	44	47.7	225	2	2

 

Season Average

26

Manuel was supposed to be the franchise quarterback for the Bills. He has struggled this season, but most young quarterbacks are allowed the time to work through these issues.

In 14 games he has completed 59 percent of his passes with a 3.7 percent TD ratio compared to a 2.7 percent INT ratio. That might not be amazing, but for a guy so young, it seems a bit hasty to yank him.

His replacement, Kyle Orton, has played in 75 games while also completing 59 percent of his passes with a TD ratio of 3.7 percent and an INT ratio of 2.6 percent. Just what exactly are the Bills hoping to accomplish with this move?

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
1	@ Chicago	W 23-20	16	22	72.7	173	1	1	29
2	Miami	W 29-10	16	26	61.5	202	1	0	26
3	SD	L 10-22	23	39	59.0	238	1	0	21
4	@ HOU	L 17-23	21	44	47.7	225	2	2	26

Next Week Outlook

With Manuel now benched, it's hard to say when, if ever, we will see him again.

27. Kirk Cousins, Washington Redskins

Patrick Smith/Getty Images

This Week

27

Last Thursday the Washington Redskins went head-to-head with the New York Giants. Washington was at home and favored despite the Giants beating the Titans the weekend before. Cousins let his supporters down big time with a horrendous performance that included four interceptions and 57.6 percent passing.

Week 4 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
NYG	L 14-45	19	33	57.6	257	1	4

 

Season Average

24.3

The blowout loss to the Giants caused Cousins to drop six spots from 21st overall. His six TD passes on the season now match the number of turnovers he is responsible for.

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
1	@ Houston	L 6-17	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
2	Jacksonville	W 41-10	22	33	66.7	250	2	0	N/A
3	@ PHI	L 34-37	30	48	62.5	427	3	1	25
4	NYG	L 14-45	19	33	57.6	257	1	4	21

 

Next Week Outlook

Facing the Seattle Seahawks, this could be the biggest game of Cousins' career as he prepares to take on the notorious Legion of Boom, who will be fresh off a bye week.

Can Cousins redeem himself against the toughest pass defense in football, or will he fall deeper into the pit of despair?

26. Mike Glennon, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Gene J. Puskar/Associated Press

This Week

26

Last week, Mike Glennon returned to the starting lineup once again after showing a lot of potential as a rookie.

Traveling to Pittsburgh to face an injured defense was still a feat few people expected the Bucs to succeed at. Nonetheless, they played solid on both sides of the ball as Glennon threw for more than 300 yards despite completing just half of his passes.

In heroic fashion, Glennon made a key throw to take the lead in the final seconds of the game.

Tampa Bay was without offensive coordinator Jeff Tedford once again and has the 30th-ranked offense overall.

Week 4 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
@ PIT	W 27-24	21	42	50.0	302	2	1

 

Season Average

25

Last season Glennon managed to surprise the NFL by becoming the most efficient rookie QB of 2013, according to my power rankings.

The 27 points scored Sunday was the most this offense has scored all year. Glennon didn't play extraordinarily well despite the win. That, along with strong performances by the rookie QBs this week, led to Glennon dropping two spots in the rankings.

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
1	Carolina	L 14-20	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
2	St. Louis	L 17-19	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
3	@ ATL	L 14-56	17	24	70.8	121	1	0	N/A
4	@ PIT	W 27-24	21	42	50.0	302	2	1	24

Next Week Outlook

The Bucs are hoping to stand tall against their divisional opponents when they travel to New Orleans. The Saints defense has yet to snag an interception and is playing uninspired football on that side of the ball.

Can Glennon dominate a weaker defense and help to infuse life back into this organization?

25. Blake Bortles, Jacksonville Jaguars

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This Week

25

Last Sunday Blake Bortles had his first NFL start against the 10th-best defense in the league. The Chargers finished strong against the Jags, but Bortles did manage to complete 78 percent of his passes while throwing for 253 yards.

All in all, it was a promising start for the rookie.

Week 4 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
@ SD	L 14-33	29	37	78.4	253	1	2

 

Season Average

26

Surprisingly, the Jaguars have only scored 30 or more points one time in their last 26 regular-season games. This offense clearly needs a spark.

And so, the Bortles era has officially begun in Jacksonville. In Week 3 Bortles threw two touchdown passes in just two quarters, while Chad Henne had only thrown three in the previous eight quarters.

For the season Bortles is completing 70.5 percent of his passes.

He is an exciting young QB who was the first one drafted in this year's class. He will have a bunch of young targets to throw to. The Jags should eventually turn into one of the more exciting offenses in the league—once they figure out how to block.

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
1	@ PHI	L 17-34	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
2	@ WAS	L 10-41	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
3	IND	L 17-44	14	24	58.3	223	2	2	N/A
4	@ SD	L 14-33	29	37	78.4	253	1	2	27

 

Next Week Outlook

This Sunday the Jags play host to the Pittsburgh Steelers, who are looking to bounce back from a disappointing Week 4 loss.

The interesting element to this game is that Bortles has been compared so often to Ben Roethlisberger. Come Sunday, we can watch both QBs square up and see who will come out on top.

24. Austin Davis, St. Louis Rams

Scott Iskowitz/Getty Images

This Week

24

Austin Davis and the Rams had a bye in Week 4.

Week 5 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT

 

Season Average

27.2

Surprisingly, Davis has shown significant improvement from week to week, which is why he has gone from 32nd overall to 24th. 

In Davis' two starts, he is 52-of-71 for 562 yards with three touchdowns and two interceptions for a passer rating of 98.4 and a QBR of 77.5. 

Davis is 1-2 in games played this year while showing off some impressive skills that few people expected. But when, if ever, will Shaun Hill return to the lineup? Apparently, sooner than later...

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
1	Minnesota	L 6-34	16	23	69.6	192	0	1	N/A
2	@ Tampa Bay	W 19-17	22	29	75.9	235	0	0	32
3	DAL	L 31-34	30	42	71.4	327	3	2	28
4	Bye	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	25
5

 

Next Week Outlook

According to The Associated Press via Yahoo (h/t Rotoworld.com), head coach Jeff Fisher believes Hill will remain the starter whenever he is fully recovered from his thigh injury.

It looks like Hill will return to the lineup against the Eagles since he has been practicing during the bye week. This could be the last we see of Davis this year.

23. Teddy Bridgewater, Minnesota Vikings

Jim Mone/Associated Press

This Week

23

Teddy Bridgewater handled his first NFL start like a champion. He nearly played a perfect game, throwing for more than 300 yards while avoiding any interceptions.

He showed a ton of confidence in the pocket and even looked good running around and scrambling for first downs and TDs.

Unfortunately for the young QB, he suffered an ankle injury and needed to be carted off the field.

The Vikings would go on to beat the Falcons 41-28, giving Bridgewater his first victory as a starting NFL QB. It's worth mentioning they did all of this without their best player, RB Adrian Peterson.

Week 4 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
Atlanta	W 41-28	19	30	63.3	317	0	0

 

Season Average

25.5

Bridgewater is going to provide a certain dynamic to the position that could give this team the spark it needs at a time when its best player is dealing with a scandal and unable to play.

Of all QBs with at least 30 pass attempts, Bridgewater leads the NFL with 9.3 yards per pass. His passer rating after two games is 92.7, and his QBR is 73.8.  

It looks as though he can run away with this job and never look back. It'll be fun keeping an eye on how far up the rankings he can climb. In just one start, he has already jumped five spots.

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
1	@ St. Louis	W 34-6	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
2	New England	L 7-30	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
3	@ New Orleans	L 9-20	12	20	60	150	0	0	N/A
4	Atlanta	W 41-28	19	30	63.3	317	0	0	28

 

Next Week Outlook

Regarding whether or not Bridgewater will get the start Thursday night against the Packers, he had this to say, per Michael David Smith of Pro Football Talk: "Each day I'm making progress. I'm just going to keep moving, move forward and try to get ready for Thursday."

If his ankle is healthy enough, expect Bridgewater to start against the Packers. With that said, his mobility that served him so well last week should be greatly diminished.

22. Brian Hoyer, Cleveland Browns

David Richard/Associated Press

This Week

22

Brian Hoyer got to rest this week with the bye. 

Week 4 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
Bye	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A

 

Season Average

23

Hoyer has one of the most popular sports figures in the country nipping at his heels, and he has done everything he can to keep his job as the starter.

Since he didn't play in Week 4, other QBs were able to jump ahead of him in the power rankings. He fell three spots during his bye.

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
1	@ Pittsburgh	L 27-30	18	30	60	222	1	0	25
2	New Orleans	W 26-24	24	40	60	204	1	0	25
3	Baltimore	L 21-23	19	25	76.0	290	1	0	24
4	Bye	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	19

 

Next Week Outlook

The 1-2 Browns will travel to Tennessee to take on the 1-3 Titans in a game of desperation.

Hoyer has been playing well thus far and is the only remaining QB to start every game without throwing an interception.

Will the Titans be the first team to take the ball away?

21. Nick Foles, Philadelphia Eagles

Ezra Shaw/Getty Images

This Week

21

Nick Foles was shut out on offense by the 49ers defense like never before. The Eagles didn't even march into 49ers territory until the fourth quarter.

Surprisingly, Foles was held to less than 50 percent on his pass attempts and threw for fewer than 200 yards.

That, my friend, is called being dominated.

Week 4 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
@ SF	L 21-26	21	43	48.8	195	0	2

 

Season Average

14.6

Foles started out the season as the No. 7 QB in the NFL. By the end of Week 4 the Eagles are 3-1, and he has dropped to No. 21. His play has not been good for the most part, although the scheme and success of short passes have helped this offense tremendously.

Foles has showed a level of toughness this season that has added a new layer of respect for him as a leader and a quarterback. He has taken some tough hits so far and continues to fire darts while taking punishment.

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
1	Jacksonville	W 34-17	27	45	60.0	322	2	1	7
2	@ Indianapolis	W 30-27	21	37	56.8	331	1	1	13
3	WSH	W 37-34	27	41	65.9	325	3	0	17
4	@ SF	L 21-26	21	43	48.8	195	0	2	15

 

Next Week Outlook

The Eagles play host to the Rams this weekend, and Foles will certainly be looking to rebound from his poor performance in San Francisco.

The Rams have been solid on defense and have had two weeks to prepare for this matchup.

If Foles struggles again, Chip Kelly could look to his bullpen for answers. Obviously, that's the last thing either of them would want to happen.

20. Ryan Fitzpatrick, Houston Texans

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This Week

20

Ryan Fitzpatrick found a way to do just enough for the win. He completed 67.6 percent of his 37 pass attempts but did throw two picks on the day.

The defense helped this team score points and keep the Bills off balance all day.

Week 4 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
BUF	W 23-17	25	37	67.6	268	1	2

 

Season Average

20

Fitzpatrick was off to a great start in 2014 but hit a huge bump in the road after a less-than-stellar game against the Giants.

Fitzpatrick slid back three places after a win and rightly so. On the plus side, his 8.1 yards per attempt is sixth among QBs who are currently starting for their teams.

His other stats are quite average. They include a passer rating of 86, QBR of 55 and five TDs along with five INTs.

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
1	Washington	W 17-6	14	22	63.6	206	1	0	24
2	@ Oakland	W 30-14	14	19	73.7	139	2	0	21
3	@ NYG	L 17-30	20	34	58.8	289	1	3	18
4	BUF	W 23-17	25	37	67.6	268	1	2	17

 

Next Week Outlook

Fitzpatrick will have his hands full trying to keep up with the high-powered offense of the Dallas Cowboys. If he can match their offensive output, this team has a chance.

There are limits to what Fitzpatrick can do as a quarterback. To make up for this, the Texans should focus on a balanced attack.

He gets to face the formidable Cowboys defensive front in Dallas. It should be fun to see which team comes out on top.

19. Ryan Tannehill, Miami Dolphins

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This Week

22

Ryan Tannehill started last weekend in London against the Oakland Raiders despite head coach Joe Philbin repeatedly not committing to Tannehill as the starter. Starting him turned out to be a good decision.

The struggling QB threw for a season-high 278 yards while completing 74.2 percent of his passes.

We got to see Tannehill bounce back strong with his back against the wall.

Week 4 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
@ OAK	W 38-14	23	31	74.2	278	2	1

 

Season Average

20

Tannehill currently has the highest passer rating and second-highest QBR in the AFC East despite the highest drop percentage.

His PFF grade is solid (5.1, seventh in the NFL), but his QBR is on the lower end. At best Tannehill is playing like an average starting QB, which is clearly not where the Dolphins would like him to be at this point in his career.

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
1	New England	W 33-20	18	32	56.3	178	2	1	18
2	@ Buffalo	L 10-29	31	49	63.3	241	1	1	19
3	KC	L 15-34	21	43	48.8	205	1	0	19
4	@ OAK	W 38-14	23	31	74.2	278	2	1	22

 

Next Week Outlook

The Dolphins get to rest this week and enjoy the bye.

18. Joe Flacco, Baltimore Ravens

Patrick Semansky/Associated Press

This Week

18

Baltimore Ravens QB Joe Flacco completed 22 of his 31 pass attempts for 327 yards, three touchdowns and no interceptions in the Week 4 win against the Carolina Panthers. This was by far his best game of the season.

Week 4 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
CAR	W 38-10	22	31	71.0	327	3	0

 

Season Average

21.6

For much of the season Flacco has played like an average starting QB, which he continues to demonstrate himself to be—that is, until he stepped up his game in a big win against the Panthers.

Flacco's numbers improved significantly in nearly every category after his big week. His passer rating is 93 to go with a QBR of 76 and 6.9 yards per pass. As a result, he jumped up two spots when other QBs around this region also played well.

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
1	Cincinnati	L 16-23	35	62	56.5	345	1	1	23
2	Pittsburgh	W 26-6	21	29	72.4	166	2	0	27
3	@ CLE	W 23-21	19	31	61.3	217	1	1	20
4	CAR	W 38-10	22	31	71.0	327	3	0	20

 

Next Week Outlook

One of the best games of the week should be Flacco taking on Andrew Luck and the Colts. Both QBs have been hot as of late and have top offenses in the league.

Flacco should be able to play well against a Colts defense that has looked far less dominant than the defense he just ripped to shreds. But the NFL is known for its unpredictable outcomes.

17. Jay Cutler, Chicago Bears

Nam Y. Huh/Associated Press

This Week

17

Jay Cutler entered the Packers game with a ton of confidence that played to his favor in the first half. But by the third quarter, the gun-slinging mentality that worked in his favor eventually came back to haunt him.

The Bears QB was forced into two picks and held to a 64.7 percent completion rate.

Week 4 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
GB	L 17-38	22	34	64.7	256	2	2

 

Season Average

14.4

Cutler is currently second in the league with 10 touchdown passes in four games and has found a way to pull off some important victories early on.

For the season he has an impressive passer rating of 94.7, which speaks to the overall functionality of the Bears passing game as a whole.

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
1	Buffalo	L 20-23	34	49	69.4	349	2	2	15
2	@ San Francisco	W 28-20	23	34	67.6	176	4	0	14
3	@ NY Jets	W 27-19	23	38	60.5	225	2	0	12
4	GB	L 17-38	22	34	64.7	256	2	2	14

 

Next Week Outlook

Both the Bears and the Panthers are coming off tough losses. Only one team will get back on track.

Cutler should be able to exploit the Panthers secondary with his tall receivers but has to be mindful of their talented front seven.

16. Alex Smith, Kansas City Chiefs

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The Chiefs, led by Alex Smith, had 303 yards of offense in the first half alone. That's the first time a Bill Belichick defense has allowed 300 yards in a half—ever! Smith was 12-of-13 for 142 yards and a TD on throws less than 15 yards downfield during that time.

Week 4 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
Patriots	W 41-14	20	26	76.9	248	3	0

 

Season Average

19.8

Smith led the Chiefs to their first win of the year against a struggling Dolphins squad two weeks ago. His issues with a shaky pocket continued, but the athletic QB was able to overcome five sacks and a few drops on the way to a much-needed win.

His passer rating is currently 94.2 with a QBR of 49. 

This offseason the Chiefs made massive changes on their offensive line. As a result, Smith has been sacked 13 times in four games—the second-highest number behind only Chad Henne of the Jaguars.

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
1	Titans	L 10-26	19	35	54.3	202	1	3	19
2	@ Denver	L 17-24	26	42	61.9	255	0	0	24
3	@ MIA	W 34-15	19	25	76.0	186	3	0	22
4	NE	W 41-14	20	26	76.9	248	3	0	18

 

Next Week Outlook

The Chiefs will have their hands full this week when they travel to Levi’s Stadium to face a San Francisco defense that completely shut out the Philadelphia Eagles offense.

This will also be an emotional homecoming for Smith, who spent most of his career as a 49er.

Look for the Chiefs to try to attack with tight end Travis Kelce, who had a great game against the Patriots.

15. Eli Manning, New York Giants

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Eli Manning has put together back-to-back positive games; the most recent was a blowout victory over the Washington Redskins. In that nationally televised contest, Manning had four TD passes while completing 71.8 percent of his passes for 300 yards.

Manning could be in the midst of a rebirth similar to what we saw with Philip Rivers last year.

Week 4 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
@ WSH	W 45-14	28	39	71.8	300	4	1

 

Season Average

23.8

Manning has a lot of ground to cover if he wishes to return to the elite status he briefly occupied several years ago. The last two weeks are a great step in the right direction.

At the age of 33, Manning is an old dog being asked to learn new tricks for the first time in his NFL career with the implementation of the West Coast offense. Week 3 was the first time we've seen a sign of progress, and he seemed to build off that in Week 4.

In two weeks Manning has gone from No. 26 to No. 15 in the power rankings.  

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
1	@ Detroit	L 14-35	18	33	54.5	163	1	2	27
2	Arizona	L 14-25	26	39	66.7	277	2	2	28
3	HOU	W 30-17	21	28	75.0	234	2	0	26
4	@ WSH	W 45-14	28	39	71.8	300	4	1	23

 

Next Week Outlook

Manning should be able to have success against the Atlanta Falcons' 31st-ranked defense, but points will need to come at a premium considering the Falcons are capable of scoring almost at will at times.

Manning should have plenty of time looking downfield against the nonexistent pass rush of the Falcons. This could spell trouble for Atlanta.

14. Tom Brady, New England Patriots

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The Patriots had their first prime-time game of the year Monday at Arrowhead Stadium versus the Kansas City Chiefs.

Tom Brady struggled the entire game, failing to get comfortable in a shaky pocket with unreliable targets. For the first time in his career, he was benched because the game had just gotten out of hand.

According to Steve Palazzolo of Pro Football Focus, Brady’s time in the pocket versus the Chiefs was 2.15 seconds, tied for second-lowest in over four seasons tracked by the site. As a result, his QBR on the night was just 11.6.

Week 4 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
@ Chiefs	L 14-41	14	23	60.9	159	1	2

 

Season Average

9.2

Brady's 46.5 Total QBR is 30th among 36 qualifying QBs. That's his lowest rating since Total QBR started in 2006.

"Brady's struggles aren't just a lack of weapons; he's off. His off-target percentage of 25.5 is the second-highest (Nick Foles, 26.5 percent)," tweeted Bleacher Report's Cecil Lammey.

"Tom Brady has completed only 22 percent of his deep passes (15-plus yards) this year, tied with Ryan Tannehill for worst among QBs who have started each game," chimed in ESPN Stats & Info.

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
1	@ Miami	L 20-33	29	56	51.8	249	1	0	5
2	@ Minnesota	W 30-7	14	21	66.7	149	1	0	12
3	OAK	W 16-9	24	37	64.9	234	1	0	6
4	@ KC	L 14-41	14	23	60.9	159	1	2	9

 

Next Week Outlook

The Patriots scored six points versus the Bengals last year. They will go at it again Sunday night—only this time, the Pats will be fighting for their lives.

13. Andy Dalton, Cincinnati Bengals

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Andy Dalton got to enjoy a week of rest. 

Week 4 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
Bye	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A

 

Season Average

10.6

In Week 1, the QB honored his contract extension with a 300-yard passing game and no turnovers. His 98.7 passer rating was also impressive.

Had Dalton played a better game in Week 3, he might have done enough to supplant Tom Brady in the rankings. He is very close behind after three games.

Interestingly enough, Dalton is currently the highest-ranked QB who has yet to lose a game this season.

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
1	@ BAL	W 23-16	25	38	65.8	301	1	0	10
2	ATL	W 24-10	15	23	65.2	252	1	0	11
3	TEN	W 33-7	15	23	65.2	169	0	1	9
4	Bye	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	10

 

Next Week Outlook

Dalton must take on Tom Brady and the Patriots for Cincinnati's biggest test of the season to date. This game will be a good marker to see just how good these Bengals really are. The Patriots are coming off a horrendous loss and will no doubt be looking for blood.

12. Matthew Stafford, Detroit Lions

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The Lions had their hands full with the NFL's second-ranked defense Sunday. The Jets were tied for the most sacks in the league, but Matthew Stafford still found a way to succeed while completing 70.6 percent of his passes and throwing two TDs and no INTs.

Stafford and his offensive weapons played well against a thin Jets secondary with a 24-17 win.

Week 4 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
@ NYJ	W 24-17	24	34	70.6	293	2	0

 

Season Average

13.6

Week 4 marked the first time all season Stafford had at least a 70 percent pass completion rate. His solid performance allowed him to jump from 16th to 12th in the power rankings.

On the season he has a 91.5 passer rating and a 77 Total QBR. Furthermore, only two QBs in the top 10 have a higher yards-per-pass average than his 7.95.

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
1	Giants	W 35-14	22	32	68.8	346	2	0	17
2	@ Carolina	L 7-24	27	48	56.2	291	1	1	9
3	Green Bay	W 19-7	22	34	64.7	246	0	2	14
4	@ NYJ	W 24-17	24	34	70.6	293	2	0	16

 

Next Week Outlook

The Lions get to stay home and beat up on the Buffalo Bills, who elected to start the veteran Kyle Orton over EJ Manuel. Both of these defenses are ranked in the top 10 and feature outstanding defensive lines.

Stafford should have success throwing to Calvin Johnson down the field.

11. Colin Kaepernick, San Francisco 49ers

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The Eagles have been predominantly a second-half team, while the 49ers have been better in the first half. None of that mattered in the 49ers' close 26-21 win over Philadelphia.

Colin Kaepernick played well enough for a win but was far from perfect. For now, he seems to make up with his legs what he lacks with his head. Picking apart a professional football team from the pocket takes incredibly unique skills.

Week 4 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
PHI	W 26-21	17	30	56.7	218	2	1

 

Season Average

12

A pattern is developing where Kaepernick seems to struggle on easy throws and excel at tough ones.

Consistency is just not a part of his game yet, and offensive coordinator Greg Roman seems to think he can turn Kaepernick into something he's not.

Who is he? He is the QB who currently leads the league in rushing yards per game with 46.

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
1	@ Dallas	W 28-17	16	23	69.6	201	2	0	16
2	Chicago	L 20-28	21	34	61.8	248	1	3	8
3	@ ARI	L 14-23	29	37	78.4	245	1	0	13
4	PHI	W 26-21	17	30	56.7	218	2	1	12

  

Next Week Outlook

On Sunday the 49ers and Kaepernick will host the Chiefs as Alex Smith returns home to battle his former team.

Kaepernick's mobility should come in handy considering the Chiefs are second in the NFL in sacks and the 49ers offensive line is banged up.

10. Cam Newton, Carolina Panthers

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Despite mediocre stats, Cam Newton played decently Sunday, especially given what he has had to work with at the receiver position. Although the Panthers lost 38-10 to the Ravens, Newton is the least of Carolina's problems.

Week 4 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
@ BAL	L 10-38	14	25	56.0	197	1	0

 

Season Average

10.5

To the surprise of many, Newton has grown into a very capable pocket passer. Against the Steelers in Week 3 he only attempted two runs on the day while throwing for 250 yards and completing nearly 70 percent of his passes.

Week 4 brought about the Panthers' lowest point total on offense, and Newton threw for his fewest yards in a game (197) this season.

Newton is also one of the few starting QBs left who has yet to throw an interception. His passer rating on the season is 98.2, and his QBR is 57.6.

Perhaps one of the more surprising stats is that Cam Newton is only averaging 11 rushing yards per game.

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
1	@ Tampa Bay	W 20-14	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	11
2	Detroit	W 24-7	22	34	64.7	281	1	0	N/A
3	PIT	L 19-37	24	35	68.6	250	1	0	10
4	@ BAL	L 10-38	14	25	56.0	197	1	0	11

 

Next Week Outlook

This week will be a battle of 2-2 teams. Carolina plays host to the Chicago Bears, who are ranked 22nd on defense.

Newton needs to start running for first downs more considering the injuries to the backfield and lack of reliable pass-catchers on the roster.

Perhaps his reluctance to use his legs is due to him still trying to recover from ankle surgery and fractured ribs. But if the Panthers want to win, he is going to have to start opening things up to keep the chains moving.

9. Tony Romo, Dallas Cowboys

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9

Tony Romo looked 100 percent healthy on Sunday night against the Saints. The game was an incredibly one-sided victory for the Cowboys, who won 38-17.

Romo played fantastic with three TDs and zero INTs and showed that he is still a very capable QB in this league.

Week 4 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
NO	W 38-17	22	29	75.9	262	3	0

 

Season Average

12.2

Up till this week, Romo was on a backward slide and had people questioning whether his back was a bigger issue than we initially thought. If the running game can hold up, this offense can keep the Cowboys in any game while taking a ton of pressure off the aging Romo.

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
1	SF	L 17-28	23	37	62.2	281	1	3	8
2	@ Ten	W 26-10	19	29	65.5	176	1	0	15
3	@ STL	W 34-31	18	23	78.3	217	2	1	16
4	NO	W 38-17	22	29	75.9	262	3	0	13

 

Next Week Outlook

This week the Cowboys will test out that talented offensive line when they face the Houston Texans and J.J. Watt. Both teams are a surprising 3-1.

Romo has had a lot of help in this offense with DeMarco Murray playing like a league MVP.

8. Matt Ryan, Atlanta Falcons

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The Falcons boast the top-ranked offense in the NFL with 444 total yards per game, and they took that high-powered unit to Minnesota to face an improved 1-2 Vikings team.

Matt Ryan played decently for the most part but was eventually bested by a rookie QB who was making his first start. Teddy Bridgewater put 41 points on the board for the Vikings.

Week 4 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
@ MIN	L 28-41	25	41	61.0	298	3	2

 

Season Average

7.6

Matt Ryan had one of the best performances of the season in Week 3 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He completed an incredible 87.5 percent of his passes while throwing for 286 yards. He followed that up with a 61 percent performance and two INTs.

His 8.7 yards-per-pass season average also dropped to 8.3 after Week 4. Ryan still has impressive stats thus far, such as his 100 passer rating and top-five positional grade on Pro Football Focus.

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
1	New Orleans	W 37-34	31	43	72.1	448	3	0	14
2	@ Cincinnati	L 10-24	24	44	54.5	231	1	3	4
3	Tampa Bay	W 56-14	21	24	87.5	286	3	0	7
4	@ MIN	L 28-41	25	41	61.0	298	3	2	5

 

Next Week Outlook

Can the Falcons head to New York and beat a hot Giants team that seems to be clicking at the right time?

The Giants lead the league with seven INTs thus far.

7. Russell Wilson, Seattle Seahawks

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Russell Wilson had a bye in Week 4.

Week 4 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
Bye	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A

 

Season Average

3.8

Wilson plays smart situational football with the awareness of a seasoned veteran. He may not always have the big numbers, but he knows how to utilize every weapon at his disposal.

Heading into the Denver Broncos game in Week 3, Wilson was the second-ranked QB in the NFL according to the power rankings. The Seahawks beat Peyton Manning and Co. just before their bye week, yet Wilson still fell five spots in two weeks.

A large part of his slide is the result of great performances by the competition at the top and diminishing weight given to stats beyond this season.

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
1	Green Bay	W 36-16	19	28	67.9	191	2	0	3
2	@ San Diego	L 21-30	17	25	68	202	2	0	3
3	Denver	W 26-20	24	34	70.6	258	2	1	2
4	Bye	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	4

 

Next Week Outlook

The Seahawks return from their bye to battle Washington on Monday Night Football. Wilson will have to use his mobility to avoid one of the league's best pass rushes.

6. Ben Roethlisberger, Pittsburgh Steelers

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It's not often that a quarterback loses a game when completing more than 70 percent of his passes with 300 yards passing, three TDs and no INTs, but that's exactly what happened to Ben Roethlisberger.

Week 4 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
TB	L 24-27	29	40	72.5	314	3	0

 

Season Average

7.4

Roethlisberger has managed to stay in the top 10 in the rankings the entire first quarter of the season and has even moved up two spots after a disappointing loss to the Bucs.

His passer rating on the season is 99.4, and his QBR is 63.4. He is completing 68.1 percent of his passes for 7.8 yards per attempt. Those are all impressive numbers that illustrate the type of season he's having so far.

Roethlisberger is one of the toughest QBs in the league. He knows what it takes to win it all.

Can he take his game to that next level and establish himself as an elite QB?

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
1	Cleveland	W 30-27	23	34	67.6	365	1	1	9
2	@ Baltimore	L 6-26	22	37	59.5	217	0	1	6
3	@ CAR	W 37-19	22	30	73.3	196	2	0	8
4	TB	L 24-27	29	40	72.5	314	3	0	8

 

Next Week Outlook

This Sunday the Steelers go to Jacksonville for a very winnable game against the worst defense in the NFL. The Jaguars lead the league with the most passing yards per game allowed on defense (320.8). This should be a big day for Big Ben—perhaps he can even show his younger counterpart a thing or two about playing QB in the NFL.

5. Drew Brees, New Orleans Saints

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Drew Brees followed up his best game of the year by facing off with the Cowboys' exciting offense on Sunday Night Football. Unfortunately, his 340 passing yards and 72.7 completion percentage were not enough to beat Dallas.

Week 4 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
@ DAL	L 17-38	32	44	72.7	340	2	1

 

Season Average

4

Brees has completed more than 70 percent of his passes in two straight games. But this was the first time this season that the Saints scored less than 20 points.

His 71.4 completion percentage on the season is the best among all QBs who have started every game of the season so far.

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
1	@ ATL	L 34-37	29	42	69	333	1	1	4
2	@ CLE	L 24-26	27	40	67.5	237	2	1	5
3	Minnesota	W 20-9	27	35	77.1	293	2	0	3
4	@ DAL	L 17-38	32	44	72.7	340	2	1	3

 

Next Week Outlook

This Sunday Brees and Co. take on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in New Orleans. The Bucs upset Pittsburgh last week and might have reversed their fate. But their 272.5 passing yards allowed per game is ranked 28th in the NFL. That's a good sign for Brees and bad news for the Bucs.

4. Aaron Rodgers, Green Bay Packers

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Aaron Rodgers held true to his words when he calmly told cheeseheads to R-E-L-A-X. Against the Bears in hostile territory, the Packers offense was firing at a fast pace thanks to the decisions, athleticism and arm of the Super Bowl-winning quarterback.

There was one play he made in the game that was called back but could have gone down as one of the best TD passes of his career. On the play he avoided about four would-be tacklers, weaving in and out of the pocket and firing a rocket into the corner of the end zone just as his legs were bent backward and he was taken to the ground hard.

Truly an amazing play.

Week 4 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
@ CHI	W 38-17	22	28	78.6	302	4	0

 

Season Average

5.8

Rodgers became the fastest QB with the fewest passing attempts (3,065) to reach 25,000 yards through the air. Kurt Warner (3,075) was the previous record holder.

Rodgers can also boast having the highest PFF grade at his position.

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
1	@ Seattle	L 16-36	23	33	69.7	189	1	1	6
2	Jets	W 31-24	25	42	59.5	346	3	0	7
3	@ DET	L 7-19	16	27	59.3	162	1	0	5
4	@ CHI	W 38-17	22	28	78.6	302	4	0	7

 

Next Week Outlook

The Packers get to play in front of their home crowd for just the second time of the season. This matchup against the Vikings will take place Thursday night in front of a national audience.

Rodgers should be able to post up big numbers, although the Vikings defense is much improved under new head coach Mike Zimmer.

3. Andrew Luck, Indianapolis Colts

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In a test between Andrew Luck and the NFL's fifth-best defense, Luck put on a show as he sliced and diced the Titans defense with little resistance. If Luck continues to play like this, he is guaranteed to reach legendary status before Halloween.

Week 4 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
TEN	W 41-17	29	41	70.7	393	4	1

 

Season Average

8

It's almost time to consider Luck an elite NFL quarterback. So what would it take for him to officially be worthy of such a label?

I'd say once his average ranking can be in the top five, he will be worthy of the honor. After back-to-back fantastic outings, his current average is eighth. Being third overall at the moment is the highest he's been ranked this season.

Over the last two games Luck has thrown for eight TDs and one INT while surpassing 350 yards through the air each game.

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
1	@ Denver	L 24-31	35	53	66.0	370	2	2	10
2	PHI	L 27-30	20	34	58.8	172	3	1	10
3	@ JAX	W 44-17	31	39	79.5	370	4	0	11
4	TEN	W 41-17	29	41	70.7	393	4	1	6

 

Next Week Outlook

The Ravens come to town with a defense that allows just 15 points per game. Luck's Colts have scored more than 40 points in each of the last two games. Will the unstoppable force best the immovable object?

2. Philip Rivers, San Diego Chargers

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Philip Rivers and Co. might have let the Jags stay in the game till the fourth quarter, but he put them away with room to spare when it counted.

Week 4 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
JAX	W 33-14	29	39	74.4	377	3	0

 

Season Average

3.4

We're one-fourth of the way through the season, and Rivers is arguably playing better football than any other QB in the NFL.

So far this season he has been unstoppable. Not even the Seahawks have been able to make this guy look mortal.

His 377 passing yards last week was a season high, and his 74.4 percent completion rate marks the third straight game he has completed passes at greater than 70 percent.

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
1	@ Arizona	L 17-18	21	36	58.3	238	1	1	4
2	Seattle	W 30-21	28	37	75.7	284	3	0	5
3	@ BUF	W 22-10	18	25	72.0	256	2	0	4
4	JAX	W 33-14	29	39	74.4	377	3	0	2

 

Next Week Outlook

Rivers gets to stay at home for his next contest, which comes against the Jets. He will be doing his best to avoid that dominating defensive front but should be able to exploit New York's suspect secondary.

1. Peyton Manning, Denver Broncos

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1

Peyton Manning got a chance to rest his old bones last weekend and cheer on his college team. Hopefully he is well rested and ready for a marathon of a season.  

Week 4 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
Bye	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A

 

Season Average

1

Manning still has a stranglehold over the top spot, but Rivers is now nipping at his heels. One bad or even average game from the future Hall of Famer and he could fall a notch for the first time in more than 20 games.

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
1	IND	W 31-24	22	36	61.1	269	3	0	1
2	KC	W 24-17	21	26	80.8	242	3	0	1
3	@ SEA	L 20-26	31	49	63.3	303	2	1	1
4	Bye	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	1

 

Next Week Outlook

Manning gets a chance to spoil a perfect record when he faces the Arizona Cardinals. He will have his work cut out for him considering the Cards are only allowing 15 points per game, which is good enough for second in the NFL.

 

Ryan Riddle is a former NFL player writing for Bleacher Report.

Follow him on Twitter.