NFL Quarterback Power Rankings, Post Week 8

It seems like just yesterday NFL training camp began and we all wondered how long it would take for Johnny Manziel to take over as the starter. Well it’s now the midpoint of the season, and we’re still waiting.

Even though each week it seems like the NFL redefines itself, some things do remain constant.

Peyton Manning’s brain consistently dominates the competition, although Seattle and cold weather can be his kryptonite.

Jay Cutler is barely more than an average starter.

After the atypical rookie season of Andrew Luck, Russell Wilson and Robert Griffin III a few years back, it looks as though rookie QBs have once again returned to playing like kids who have no idea what they’re doing.

There are some major changes in this week’s QB power rankings, but perhaps the most surprising is the guy who occupies the 10th spot.

Methodology

Elise Amendola/Associated Press

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.

When more than one quarterback plays for a team in one game, the QB with the most passing attempts is featured in the slide. 

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.

Quarterbacks Ranked Last Week but Not This Week

Seth Wenig/Associated Press

Geno Smith, New York Jets

Benched in the first quarter for Mike Vick

Last Ranked: 32nd

Kirk Cousins, Washington Redskins

Benched for Colt McCoy

Last Ranked: 29th

Charlie Whitehurst, Tennessee Titans

Benched for rookie QB Zach Mettenberger

Last Ranked: 26th

32. Mike Vick, New York Jets

Seth Wenig/Associated Press

This Week

32

Mike Vick came into the game after Geno threw three picks early. Vick didn’t fare much better and looked like a guy who completely forgot how to quarterback from the pocket. Aside from the interception, he also lost two fumbles in the loss.  His 69 yards rushing was a high among QBs for the week, but his overall play was suspect.

Week 8 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
BUF	L 23-43	18	36	50.0	153	0	1

 

Season Average

32

Vick's embarrassing 3.57 yards per pass is by far the lowest in the NFL out of any player who has completed at least one pass. He also has the lowest completion rate (46.4) of any QB with at least 10 pass attempts.  

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opp	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
PS	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
1	OAK	W 19-14	0	1	0	0	0	0	N/A
2	@ GB	L 24-31	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
3	CHI	L 19-27	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
4	DET	L 17-24	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
5	@ SD	L 0-31	8	19	42.1	47	0	0	N/A
6	DEN	L 17-31	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
7	@ NE	L 25-27	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
8	BUF	L 23-43	18	36	50.0	153	0	1	32

Next Week Outlook

According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Mike Vick will start against the Chiefs. No matter who starts at QB, they will have a tough time converting on third downs. The Chiefs boast the third-best defense on third downs, allowing just 32.9 percent conversions.

It’s also worth noting that the Chiefs are allowing the fewest passing yards per game.

31. Blake Bortles, Jacksonville Jaguars

Phelan M. Ebenhack/Associated Press

This Week

31

Blake Bortles had another multiple interception day in the loss to Miami. Both of his picks were returned for touchdowns by the defense and certainly contributed to the loss. Bortles also had 48 yards rushing on the day.  This was a difficult task for the rookie considering the Dolphins were allowing the fewest yards per pass attempt (6.0) heading into this game.

Week 8 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
MIA	L 13-27	18	34	52.9	221	1	2

 

Season Average

28.5

The rookie QB has thrown multiple INTs in every game he’s played in except for one. Conversely, Bortles has only had a single game with multiple TD passes. This ratio has to improve if the Jaguars are going to win games in the second half of the season.

Bortles leads all QBs with 12 INTs on the year.

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opp	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
PS	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
1	@ PHI	L 17-34	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
2	@ WSH	L 10-41	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
3	IND	L 17-44	14	24	58.3	223	2	2	27
4	@ SD	L 14-33	29	37	78.4	253	1	2	25
5	PIT	L 9-17	22	36	61.1	191	0	2	28
6	@ TEN	L 14-16	32	46	69.6	336	1	1	29
7	CLE	W 24-6	17	31	54.8	159	1	3	31
8	MIA	L 13-27	18	34	52.9	221	1	2	31

 

Next Week Outlook

Bortles and the Jags will travel to Cincinnati on Sunday to face the 4-2-1 Bengals. Jacksonville will have to overcome the second-worst turnover margin in the NFL (-10) with smart decisions by its young, talented QB. Win or lose, expect a close matchup here. 

30. Teddy Bridgewater, Minnesota Vikings

Reinhold Matay/Associated Press

This Week

30

Last Sunday, the Vikings headed to Raymond James Stadium to take on the worst defense in the league. The Bucs were giving up a league-high 294.5 yards and 34 points per game on defense.

Teddy Bridgewater should’ve been able to take advantage of this Tampa Bay defense but was limited to 57.1 percent passing and 19 points on th day.

Bridgewater had an up-and-down game but successfully executed some very difficult throws. It took a defensive touchdown in overtime to seal the victory over one of the worst teams in the NFL.

Week 8 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
@ TB	W 19-13	24	42	57.1	241	1	0

 

Season Average

28.2

Of all the QBs to throw at least 100 passes, none have fewer TD passes than Teddy Bridgewater’s two. Bridgewater also has one of the lowest passer ratings in the NFL (71.3). Only starters Mike Vick and Blake Bortles have a lower passer rating on this slideshow.

His QBR is also well below average with a 36.7 score on the season.

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opp	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
PS	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
1	@ STL	W 34-6	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
2	NE	L 7-30	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
3	@ NO	L 9-20	12	20	60.0	150	0	0	28
4	ATL	W 41-28	19	30	63.3	317	0	0	23
5	@ GB	L 10-42	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
6	DET	L 3-17	23	37	62.2	188	0	3	30
7	@ BUF	L 16-17	15	26	57.7	157	1	2	30
8	@ TB	W 19-13	24	42	57.1	241	1	0	30

 

Next Week Outlook

Bridgewater will have his hands full when he takes on a Washington defense that looks to be improving as the season goes on. The Skins defense is currently ranked seventh in the NFL in passing yards allowing (219.3) per game but is also allowing 25 points per contest.

29. Zach Mettenberger, Tennessee Titans

Wade Payne/Associated Press

This Week

29

In his first start of his NFL career, Zach Mettenberger came up one yard short of throwing for 300 yards. He also threw two touchdown passes and one interception.

Week 8 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
HOU	L 16-30	27	41	65.9	299	2	1

 

Season Average

29

So far, Mettenberger has a decent passer rating for a rookie QB of 79.6. However, according to ESPN’s Total QBR, Mettenberger has the second-lowest rating among current starting quarterbacks with 19.8.

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opp	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
PS	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
1	@ KC	W 26-10	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
2	DAL	L 10-26	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
3	@ CIN	L 7-33	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
4	@ IND	L 17-41	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
5	CLE	L 28-29	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
6	JAX	W 16-14	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
7	@ WSH	L 17-19	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
8	HOU	L 16-30	27	41	65.9	299	2	1	29

 

Next Week Outlook

The Titans will look to correct some issues this week during their bye.

28. Derek Carr, Oakland Raiders

Tony Dejak/Associated Press

This Week

28

Oakland needed a win in the worst way on Sunday yet came up short, just as it has done each week before this one. Its head coach, Dennis Allen, was already sent packing, and there are bound to be more personnel changes on the horizon if things don’t improve soon.

In Week 8 the Raiders took on the 3-3 Browns, who were ranked 29th in defense. This is a game in which Carr posted some big numbers but failed to cement a victory or find the end zone.

Carr threw for a career-high 328 yards in the loss and avoided throwing an interception despite attempting 54 throws.

Week 8 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
@ CLE	L 13-23	34	54	63.0	328	1	0

 

Season Average

30

Carr’s 6.09 yards per pass is the lowest of any QB who has started every game this season aside from Geno Smith.

The rookie QB and the Raiders are in danger of a winless season; however, much of that is not the fault of one of the more talented rookies of 2014.

His 82.0 passer rating is the highest among rookie QBs so far this season.

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opp	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
PS	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	31
1	@ NYJ	L 14-19	20	32	62.5	151	2	0	31
2	HOU	L 14-30	27	42	64.3	263	1	2	30
3	@ NE	L 9-16	21	34	61.8	174	0	1	31
4	MIA	L 14-38	16	25	64.0	146	1	1	31
5	Bye	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	29
6	SD	L 28-31	18	34	52.9	282	4	1	31
7	ARI	L 13-24	16	28	57.1	173	0	0	28
8	@ CLE	L 13-23	34	54	63.0	328	1	0	28

 

Next Week Outlook

Derek Carr takes his 31st-ranked offense into Seattle to play against one of the better defense in the NFL. One surprising stat is that the Seahawks have had the fewest penalty yards on defense in the entire league with just 261 total yards. 

27. Mike Glennon, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Cliff McBride/Getty Images

This Week

27

Glennon hadn’t been able to make much of a difference for the Bucs thus far after replacing veteran Josh McCown.  Their offense was ranked 30th in the league to go with a 1-5 record heading into the game against the Vikings.

Glennon only managed 171 yards through the air despite attempting 28 passes.

The 13 points scored marks the lowest output of the year for an already-dreadful offense.

Week 8 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
MIN	L 13-19	19	28	67.9	171	1	1

 

Season Average

25.5

There are currently four QBs in the NFL with at least 100 completions yet have a lower completion percentage than 60—Mike Glennon is among that select group with 58.8 percent of his passes being completed.

Glennon also leads the league in percentage of dropbacks under pressure in QBs with at least 100 dropbacks, per PFF.

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opp	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
PS	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
1	CAR	L 14-20	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
2	STL	L 17-19	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
3	@ ATL	L 14-56	17	24	70.8	121	1	0	24
4	@ PIT	W 27-24	21	42	50.0	302	2	1	26
5	@ NO	L 31-37	19	32	59.4	249	2	1	25
6	BAL	L 17-48	24	44	54.5	314	2	1	24
7	Bye	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	27
8	MIN	L 13-19	19	28	67.9	171	1	1	27

Next Week Outlook

Amidst speculation to the contrary, Mike Glennon will remain the starter, at least for another week according to head coach Lovie Smith, via PewterReport.com.

26. Austin Davis, St. Louis Rams

Colin E. Braley/Associated Press

This Week

26

Austin Davis and the Rams took a nap on Sunday in their blowout loss to the Chiefs.

Davis took on a defense that managed to make Philip Rivers look mortal, allowing just 209 passing yards per game—only the Patriots have allowed fewer up to that point.

Week 8 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
@ KC	L 7-34	15	25	60.0	160	1	1

 

Season Average

26.2

Austin Davis has been sacked 22 times this season. Only Matthew Stafford has been sacked more than that so far.

Davis is also second in the NFL in percentage of dropbacks under pressure (42%) for QBs with at least 100 dropbacks, according to PFF.

The relatively unknown QB has been a huge surprise this year and has already beaten Seattle.  

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opp	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
PS	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
1	MIN	L 6-34	16	23	69.6	192	0	1	32
2	@ TB	W 19-17	22	29	75.9	235	0	0	28
3	DAL	L 31-34	30	42	71.4	327	3	2	25
4	Bye	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	24
5	@ PHI	L 28-34	29	49	59.2	375	3	0	24
6	SF	L 17-31	21	42	50.0	236	1	1	27
7	SEA	W 28-26	18	21	85.7	152	2	0	24
8	@ KC	L 7-34	15	25	60.0	160	1	1	26

 

Next Week Outlook

The Rams’ bad luck continues as they will play the rest of the season without WR Brian Quick (shoulder) and LT Jake Long (ACL). On Sunday they take on the 49ers and their second-ranked defense for the second time this season. Can Davis pull off another upset like he did against the Seahawks?

25. Nick Foles, Philadelphia Eagles

Christian Petersen/Getty Images

This Week

25

Nick Foles did manage to take advantage of all the injuries on the Cardinals defense with 411 yards passing. Arizona ranked 31st in passing yards allowed and tied for 25th in passing yards per attempt heading into the game.

Foles might have finished with over 400 passing yards against the Cardinals, but he also threw two interceptions and lost the game.

Week 8 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
@ ARI	L 20-24	36	62	58.1	411	2	2

 

Season Average

18.4

There are currently eight QBs in the NFL who have completed at least 100 passes yet average less than seven yards per pass attempt. Nick Foles falls along that category despite attempting more throws beyond 20 yards than any other QB this season.

Foles is also completing less than 60 percent of his passes and has nine interceptions.

Despite having a solid record, Nick Foles has simply not played that well.

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opp	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
PS	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	7
1	JAX	W 34-17	27	45	60.0	322	2	1	13
2	@ IND	W 30-27	21	37	56.8	331	1	1	17
3	WSH	W 37-34	27	41	65.9	325	3	0	15
4	@ SF	L 21-26	21	43	48.8	195	0	2	21
5	STL	W 34-28	24	37	64.9	207	2	1	22
6	NYG	W 27-0	21	34	61.8	248	2	2	23
7	Bye	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	23
8	@ ARI	L 20-24	36	62	58.1	411	2	2	25

 

Next Week Outlook

The Eagles take their fifth-ranked offense into Houston to do battle. J.J. Watt and the Texans defense are ranked 23rd in the NFL but are coming off of a win and should be confident.

Foles needs to be more efficient moving forward or he may end up on the bench before the season is out.

24. Brian Hoyer, Cleveland Browns

Jason Miller/Getty Images

This Week

24

Brian Hoyer got to feast this Sunday when he took on the struggling Raiders (despite being outgained in yards) in Cleveland even with a struggling running game. Oakland was allowing a passer rating of 106.9 to opposing QBs and giving up 26.3 points per game. Hoyer and company put up 23 points.

Week 8 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
OAK	W 23-13	19	28	67.9	275	1	0

 

Season Average

22

Even though Hoyer played well in their win over the Raiders, he dropped two spots in the rankings because two QBs who were ranked behind him, Kyle Orton and Colt McCoy, played better and passed him up. Besides, his season numbers are still being negatively affected from completing 47 and 39 percent of his passes the previous two weeks. 

On the season, only Geno Smith has a lower completion percentage of QBs with at least 100 pass attempts.

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opp	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
PS	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	25
1	@ PIT	L 27-30	18	30	60	222	1	0	25
2	NO	W 26-24	24	40	60	204	1	0	24
3	BAL	L 21-23	19	25	76.0	290	1	0	19
4	Bye	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	22
5	@ TEN	W 29-28	21	37	56.8	292	3	1	20
6	PIT	W 31-10	8	17	47.1	217	1	0	17
7	@ JAX	L 6-24	16	41	39.0	215	0	1	22
8	OAK	W 23-13	19	28	67.9	275	1	0	24

 

Next Week Outlook

Brian Hoyer and Co. host the Buccaneers on Sunday. That’s good news for Cleveland considering the Bucs have the second-worst defense in the NFL on third down. They’re currently allowing 47.8 percent of third downs to be converted.

23. Ryan Fitzpatrick, Houston Texans

Mark Zaleski/Associated Press

This Week

23

Houston snapped a three-game losing streak on Sunday with a much-needed divisional victory over the Titans. The win marked just the second time this season the Texans have scored at least 30 points. 

Week 8 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
@ TEN	W 30-16	19	35	54.3	227	1	0

 

Season Average

20.1

Ryan Fitzpatrick has had some decent games this year, but he has also struggled. He is one of the few current starters with a QBR below 50 and has surprisingly only thrown multiple touchdowns in two games this year.

Furthermore, the stop-gap QB has yet to throw for 300 yards on the season.

At this point, Fitzpatrick is barely holding on to his starting job with Ryan Mallett patiently waiting for his opportunity.  

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opp	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
PS	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	24
1	WSH	W 17-6	14	22	63.6	206	1	0	21
2	@ OAK	W 30-14	14	19	73.7	139	2	0	18
3	@ NYG	L 17-30	20	34	58.8	289	1	3	17
4	BUF	W 23-17	25	37	67.6	268	1	2	20
5	@ DAL	L 17-20	16	25	64.0	154	0	1	21
6	IND	L 28-33	15	23	65.2	212	1	0	19
7	@PITT	L 23-30	21	32	65.6	262	2	1	18
8	@ TEN	W 30-16	19	35	54.3	227	1	0	23

 

Next Week Outlook

Fitzpatrick and the Texans should be able to generate some points against the Eagles, who are currently ranked 26th on defense. However, Houston is ranked 26th itself in passing yards per game (213.1). Which struggling unit will have more success on Sunday?

 

22. Kyle Orton, Buffalo Bills

Alex Goodlett/Getty Images

This Week

22

On Sunday, Kyle Orton only completed 10 passes, but four of those went for touchdowns. This was just the second game out of 79 career games where Orton has thrown four TDs.

Week 8 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
@ NYJ	W 43-23	10	17	14.0	238	4	0

 

Season Average

24

Currently, Kyle Orton is the lowest-ranked QB on the list with a passer rating exceeding the century mark. His QBR is far less impressive. Nonetheless, this is a QB ascending upward as his team looks to stay in the playoff hunt.  

Orton is also averaging an impressive eight yards per pass attempt, which is a significant upgrade from EJ Manuel.

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opp	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
PS	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
1	@ CHI	W 23-20	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
2	MIA	W 29-10	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
3	SD	L 10-22	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
4	@ HOU	L 17-23	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
5	@ DET	W 17-14	30	43	69.8	308	1	1	24
6	NE	L 22-37	24	38	63.2	299	2	1	25
7	MIN	W 17-16	31	43	72.1	283	2	1	25
8	@ NYJ	W 43-23	10	17	58.8	238	4	0	22

Next Week Outlook

The Bills have a Week 9 Bye, which gives these guys a chance to heal their aches and pains. 

21. Carson Palmer, Arizona Cardinals

Matt York/Associated Press

This Week

21

In a battle between two 5-1 teams it came down to the last possession after a late-game touchdown pass to John Brown by Carson Palmer. Palmer struggled to move the ball on the day as he completed just 47.6 percent of his passes; however, he did manage to rack up 329 yards with two touchdowns and no interceptions.

Week 8 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
PHI	W 24-20	20	42	47.6	329	2	0

 

Season Average

19.4

Palmer’s major drop in his completion percentage hurt him in the rankings but his touchdown-to-interception ratio is 8-1.

The Cardinals find themselves in an interesting position with one of the best records in football despite all the injuries and lack of dominant performances.

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opp	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
PS	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	20
1	SD	W 18-17	24	37	64.9	304	2	0	16
2	@ NYG	W 25-14	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
3	SF	W 23-14	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
4	Bye	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
5	@ DEN	L 20-41	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
6	WSH	W 30-20	28	44	63.6	250	2	0	21
7	@ OAK	W 24-13	22	31	71.0	253	2	1	19
8	PHI	W 24-20	20	42	47.6	329	2	0	21

 

Next Week Outlook

The Cardinals face one of their toughest challenges this Sunday when they head to Dallas to play the 6-2 Cowboys. The Cowboys defense is ranked 14th overall, and the Cardinals have the 25th ranked offense.

Both teams have overachieved this year, but the Cardinals’ ability to find a way to win has been incredible.

20. Matthew Stafford, Detroit Lions

Mike Hewitt/Getty Images

This Week

20

Matthew Stafford took on the Atlanta Falcons in a special London game and barely came away with the win.

The Falcons were allowing more yards per pass (8.8) than any other defense in the league heading into the game. Stafford managed to put up 325 passing yards even without Calvin Johnson, but he was held to just 51.1 percent passing.

Week 8 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
@ ATL	W 22-21	24	47	51.1	325	2	1

 

Season Average

15.8

Matthew Stafford has been sacked more than any other QB in the NFL thus far. His 24 sacks are already more than he was sacked all of last year combined (23).

We should expect Stafford’s numbers to go up when his weapons return. The Lions are currently without WR Calvin Johnson, TE Eric Ebron and RB Reggie Bush.

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opp	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
PS	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	17
1	NYG	W 35-14	22	32	68.8	346	2	0	9
2	@ CAR	L 7-24	27	48	56.2	291	1	1	14
3	GB	W 19-7	22	34	64.7	246	0	2	16
4	@ NYJ	W 24-17	24	34	70.6	293	2	0	12
5	BUF	L 14-17	18	31	58.1	221	1	1	16
6	@ MIN	W 17-3	19	33	57.6	185	1	0	18
7	NO	W 24-23	27	40	67.5	299	2	2	21
8	@ ATL	W 22-21	24	47	51.1	325	2	1	20

 

Next Week Outlook

With all of the injuries on both sides of the ball, a bye week for the Lions couldn’t have come at a better time.

19. Ryan Tannehill, Miami Dolphins

Rob Foldy/Getty Images

This Week

19

Ryan Tannehill is starting to understand that he needs to utilize his legs and athleticism. On Sunday he rushed for 48 yards on five attempts, which came in handy considering he only passed for 196 total yards.

Week 8 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
@ JAX	W 27-13	16	29	55.2	196	1	1

 

Season Average

19.2

Tannehill is still struggling to push the ball down the field and has yet to throw for 300 yards in a game. His 6.56 yards per pass attempt ranks among the lowest in the NFL.

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opp	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
PS	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	18
1	NE	W 33-20	18	32	56.3	178	2	1	19
2	@ BUF	L 10-29	31	49	63.3	241	1	1	19
3	KC	L 15-34	21	43	48.8	205	1	0	22
4	@ OAK	W 38-14	23	31	74.2	278	2	1	19
5	Bye	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	18
6	GB	L 24-27	20	31	64.5	244	2	2	22
7	@ CHI	W 27-14	25	32	78.1	277	2	0	17
8	@ JAX	W 27-13	16	29	55.2	196	1	1	19

 

Next Week Outlook

Surprisingly, Tannehill will face one of the worst third-down defenses in the NFL when the Dolphins host the San Diego Chargers. However, the Chargers are only allowing 18.6 points per game, which means they’re a defense that bends but doesn’t break.

It should be interesting to see if Tannehill can guide his offense into the end zone enough for the victory.

Tannehill needs to be wary of the Jaguars’ formidable pass rush that is second in the league with 22 sacks.

18. Jay Cutler, Chicago Bears

Darren McCollester/Getty Images

This Week

18

Jay Cutler had his hands full against the much-improved Patriots pass defense. Few realize this defense was allowing the fewest passing yards per game (208.0) in the NFL heading into Week 8. Cutler put up 227 passing yards, but the game was completely one-sided.

Week 8 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
@ NE	L 23-51	20	30	66.7	227	3	1

 

Season Average

14.8

After losing a fumble last Sunday, Jay Cutler has now lost four fumbles on the year, which is more than any other QB in the NFL.

Cutler didn’t necessarily have a bad game in the blowout loss to the Patriots, but he was passed up by Andy Dalton, Alex Smith and Colt McCoy this week—each of whom played well enough to make the jump.

The Bears’ QB has 17 passing touchdowns on the season, sixth in the NFL.

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opp	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
PS	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	15
1	BUF	L 20-23	34	49	69.4	349	2	2	14
2	@ SF	W 28-20	23	34	67.6	176	4	0	12
3	@ NYJ	W 27-19	23	38	60.5	225	2	0	14
4	G B	L 17-38	22	34	64.7	256	2	2	17
5	@ CAR	L 24-31	28	36	77.8	289	2	2	15
6	@ ATL	W 27-13	26	38	68.4	381	1	0	14
7	MIA	L 14-27	21	34	61.8	190	1	1	15
8	@ NE	L 23-51	20	30	66.7	227	3	1	18

 

Next Week Outlook

Head coach Marc Trestman has a lot of self scouting to do this week during their bye.

17. Alex Smith, Kansas City Chiefs

Peter Aiken/Getty Images

This Week

17

Alex Smith and the Chiefs hosted the St. Louis Rams, who were fresh off of a big win against the Seahawks.  The Rams defense had allowed 29.3 points per game heading into the game, and Alex Smith took full advantage, scoring 34 on the day.

Week 8 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
STL	W 34-7	24	28	85.7	226	0	0

 

Season Average

19.2

Alex Smith and the Chiefs are 2-0 since the bye week, including a Week 7 win against the Chargers. During that span Smith has completed 76.7 percent of his passes, which is an incredibly high percentage.

In addition, Smith has done a great job with his legs. He is currently averaging 23 yards per game rushing, which is fifth best among current starting QBs.   

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opp	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
PS	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	19
1	TEN	L 10-26	19	35	54.3	202	1	3	24
2	@ DEN	L 17-24	26	42	61.9	255	0	0	22
3	@ MIA	W 34-15	19	25	76.0	186	3	0	18
4	NE	W 41-14	20	26	76.9	248	3	0	16
5	@ SF	L 17-22	17	31	54.8	175	2	1	17
6	Bye	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	20
7	@ SD	W 23-20	19	28	67.9	221	1	0	20
8	STL	W 34-7	24	28	85.7	226	0	0	17

 

Next Week Outlook

Smith strained his shoulder against the Rams in the second half on Sunday, but the injury is minor, and he should be fine for next week against the hapless Jets. The Jets defense only has one interception all season, so Smith may want to take more chances down the field this week.  

16. Andy Dalton, Cincinnati Bengals

Andy Lyons/Getty Images

This Week

16

Bengals WR A.J. Green (toe) received a positive prognosis during his meeting with a foot specialist last week but failed to play in Week 8. That left Andy Dalton looking for other options in the passing game against the Ravens. Baltimore’s defense had allowed just seven passing touchdowns all season—tied for the fewest in the League with Detroit—and managed to keep Dalton from adding to that total. However, they couldn’t stop the Red Rifle from completing 75 percent of his passes and finishing with an exciting overtime win.  

Week 8 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
BAL	W 27-24	21	28	75.0	266	0	1

 

Season Average

12.2

For back-to-back weeks Dalton is ranked at his lowest point of the year, during which time he has also gone without a single touchdown pass. Dalton has clearly struggled without his primary target A.J. Green.

One thing that hasn’t been a problem for the Bengals is their pass protection. Dalton has the second-lowest percentage of dropbacks under pressure in the NFL (22.5%), behind only Peyton Manning, according to PFF.

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opp	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
PS	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	10
1	@ BAL	W 23-16	25	38	65.8	301	1	0	11
2	ATL	W 24-10	15	23	65.2	252	1	0	9
3	TEN	W 33-7	15	23	65.2	169	0	1	10
4	Bye	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	13
5	@ NE	L 17-43	15	24	62.5	204	2	0	13
6	CAR	Tie 37-37	33	43	76.7	323	2	2	12
7	@ IND	L 0-27	18	38	47.4	126	0	0	16
8	BAL	W 27-24	21	28	75.0	266	0	1	16

 

Next Week Outlook

When the Bengals take on the 1-7 Jaguars, an interesting matchup will be between Cincinnati’s offensive line and Jacksonville’s formidable pass rush. The Jaguars are currently tied for second in sacks (25).

15. Joe Flacco, Baltimore Ravens

Andy Lyons/Getty Images

This Week

15

This week Joe Flacco dropped five spots after a poor performance in the loss to the Bengals in which he completed just 50 percent of his passes for 195 yards and threw two interceptions.

Week 8 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
@ CIN	L 24-27	17	34	50.0	195	0	2

 

Season Average

18.3

You could probably make a good case declaring Joe Flacco as the most inconsistent QB of 2014. In just eight weeks he has been ranked as low as 27th and as high as 10th.

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opp	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
PS	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	23
1	CIN	L 16-23	35	62	56.5	345	1	1	27
2	PIT	W 26-6	21	29	72.4	166	2	0	20
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	18
5	@ IND	L 13-20	22	38	57.9	235	0	1	19
6	@ TB	W 48-17	21	29	72.4	306	5	0	13
7	ATL	W 29-7	16	25	64.0	258	2	2	10
8	@ CIN	L 24-27	17	34	50.0	195	0	2	15

 

Next Week Outlook

Sunday night, the 5-3 Ravens take on the 5-3 Steelers in a tough divisional battle for first place.  Flacco is coming off his worst game of the season (which they almost won), and Ben Roethlisberger is coming off his best game ever.

The Steelers defense is allowing 250.1 yards per game, which is 19th overall.

14. Colin Kaepernick, San Francisco 49ers

Scott Kane/Associated Press

This Week

14 

Colin Kaepernick and the 49ers had a bye week.

Week 8 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
Bye	-	-	-	-	-	-	-

 

Season Average

13

Colin Kaepernick’s  1,066 yards through the air (not including runs after the catch) is ranked 15th among NFL QBs, according to PFF. He also has the third-highest drop percentage of all QBs with at least 100 pass attempts, as per PFF.

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opp	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
PS	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	16
1	@ DAL	W 28-17	16	23	69.6	201	2	0	8
2	CHI	L 20-28	21	34	61.8	248	1	3	13
3	@ AZ	L 14-23	29	37	78.4	245	1	0	12
4	PHI	W 26-21	17	30	56.7	218	2	1	11
5	KC	W 22-17	14	26	53.8	201	1	0	14
6	@ STL	W 31-17	22	36	61.1	343	3	0	15
7	@ DEN	L 17-42	24	39	61.5	263	1	1	14
8	Bye	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	14

  

Next Week Outlook

Kaepernick and the 49ers return from a week off to face the 2-5 Rams in what is usually a heated divisional matchup.  These teams just faced each other earlier this month, and the 49ers won that contest 31-17.

St. Louis is allowing 30 points per game, which is the second-worst average in the NFL. Expect big numbers yet again for the 49ers offense.

13. Cam Newton, Carolina Panthers

Bob Leverone/Associated Press

This Week

13

When the Seahawks came to town to face Cam Newton’s Panthers, both teams were looking to get above .500. Surprisingly, the infamous Legion of Boom has struggled so far this year, as they only had two interceptions heading into the game—only the Jets had fewer picks. Newton gave the Seahawks one more interception for their total and failed to score a single touchdown. His 171 passing yards was a season low.

This likely was Newton’s worst game of the season.

Week 8 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
SEA	L 9-13	12	22	54.5	171	0	1

 

Season Average

10.5

Newton has turned to his legs more often in recent weeks. In fact, 148 of his 214 total rushing yards came in the last two weeks of the season.

Considering what Newton has to work with regarding the passing game, this QB has been impressive. But it’s now starting to look like the lack of weapons is finally starting to catch up to the Panthers. They haven’t won a game in three weeks now, and Newton has thrown a pick in the last four contests.

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opp	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
PS	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	11
1	@ TB	W 20-14	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
2	DET	W 24-7	22	34	64.7	281	1	0	10
3	PIT	L 19-37	24	35	68.6	250	1	0	11
4	@ BAL	L 10-38	14	25	56.0	197	1	0	10
5	CHI	W 31-24	19	35	54.3	255	2	1	9
6	@ CIN	Tie 37-37	29	46	63.0	284	2	1	9
7	@ GB	L 17-38	17	31	54.8	205	1	1	11
8	SEA	L 9-13	12	22	54.5	171	0	1	13

 

Next Week Outlook

This Thursday night the Panthers will have to correct their issues quick as they try to rebound at home against the New Orleans Saints. Carolina is averaging 239.6 passing yards per game, which is 17th in the league, and the Saints defense is ranked 28th. Newton should be able to move the ball, but he must be able to match the production that Brees likely to generate.

12. Eli Manning, New York Giants

Brandon Wade/Associated Press

This Week

12

Eli Manning is coming off a bye week.

Week 8 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
Bye	-	-	-	-	-	-	-

 

Season Average

19

On the season Eli has 14 touchdowns to five interceptions to help his impressive QBR of 78. His 6.9 yards per pass needs to improve and so does his 64.9 percent completion rate.  

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opp	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
PS	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	27
1	@ DET	L 14-35	18	33	54.5	163	1	2	28
2	ARI	L 14-25	26	39	66.7	277	2	2	26
3	HOU	W 30-17	21	28	75.0	234	2	0	23
4	@ WAS	W 45-14	28	39	71.8	300	4	1	15
5	ATL	W 30-20	19	30	63.3	200	2	0	11
6	@ PHI	L 0-27	13	23	56.5	151	0	0	16
7	@ DAL	L 21-31	21	33	63.6	248	3	0	13
8	Bye	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	12

 

Next Week Outlook

The Colts might have imploded on defense last week, but they’re still the best third-down defense in the NFL, allowing just 31.1 percent conversions. Eli and his 23rd-ranked offense will do what they can to exploit the same holes Big Ben did a week earlier.  With WR Victor Cruz gone for the year, Eli will have to rely on WRs Rueben Randle and Odell Beckham Jr. to attack the secondary.

11. Matt Ryan, Atlanta Falcons

Matt Dunham/Associated Press

This Week

11

Matt Ryan and the Falcons hosted the Detroit Lions in a battle of desperation for Atlanta. Unfortunately for Ryan, the Lions had allowed a league-low seven receiving touchdowns and snagged eight picks heading into the game.

On paper, the Falcons offense appears more talented than the Lions, but that’s not how the NFL works.

Ryan played decently well completing 74.1 percent of his passes, but they still failed to pull off a victory.

Week 8 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
DET	L 21-22	20	27	74.1	228	2	1

 

Season Average

9.2

Matt Ryan has attempted the most passes in the NFL (305) behind only Andrew Luck and is third in the NFL in passing yards with 2,306.

Ryan is the highest ranked QB with just two wins while starting every game this year. He may not be the problem, but he is not able to overcome what the problem is. This is now the second bad year in a row for the Falcons.

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opp	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
PS	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	14
1	NO	W 37-34	31	43	72.1	448	3	0	4
2	@ CIN	L 10-24	24	44	54.5	231	1	3	7
3	TB	W 56-14	21	24	87.5	286	3	0	5
4	@ MIN	L 28-41	25	41	61.0	298	3	2	8
5	@ NYG	L 20-30	29	45	64.4	316	1	1	11
6	CHI	L 13-27	19	37	51.4	271	1	1	11
7	@ BAL	L 7-29	29	44	65.9	228	1	0	12
8	DET	L 21-22	20	27	74.1	228	2	1	11

 

Next Week Outlook

The Falcons will get a chance to collect themselves this week during their bye.

10. Colt McCoy, Washington Redskins

Ronald Martinez/Getty Images

This Week

10

Colt McCoy played an impressive game against the first-place Cowboys. He completed 83.3 percent of his passes and had 299 yards through the air. He also added a gutsy touchdown run in the upset.

Week 8 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
@ DAL	W 20-17	25	30	83.3	299	0	1

 

Season Average

10

Colt currently boasts the highest yards per pass attempt (10.17) in the NFL, but he does only have a game-and-a-half sample size.  

He also has one of the highest QBRs in the league at 80.5.

We will likely get a chance next week to see if Colt can keep up his impressive pass percentage and yards per attempt. If not, he will slide down the rankings to a place that seems more deserving of a third-string QB.

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opp	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
PS	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
1	@ HOU	L 6-17	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
2	JAX	W 41-10	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
3	@ PHI	L 34-37	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
4	NYG	L 14-45	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
5	SEA	L 17-27	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
6	@ ARI	L 20-30	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
7	TEN	W 19-17	11	12	91.7	128	1	0	N/A
8	@ DAL	W 20-17	25	30	83.3	299	0	1	10

 

Next Week Outlook

According to The Washington Post, head coach Jay Gruden said Robert Griffin III is “very, very, very close” to returning from the ankle injury.

On Tuesday, Gruden maintained that he would “not rush Robert back” and would only play him when the doctors said he is 100 percent.

This means we likely won’t know for a while which QB will start against the Vikings. Minnesota is currently ranked fourth in passing yards allowed (212.1), which should make it difficult for whoever starts this week.

9. Russell Wilson, Seattle Seahawks

Streeter Lecka/Getty Images

This Week

9 

Russell Wilson and the Seahawks failed to open things up offensively against a struggling Panthers secondary. Carolina had allowed 15 pass touchdowns so far this season—only the Jets have allowed more (18). However, the Seahawks won a defensive battle, and Wilson only passed for 199 yards and one score on the day.

Week 8 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
@ CAR	W 13-9	20	32	62.5	199	1	1

 

Season Average

5.6

In an effort to keep the chains moving and avoid total disaster on offense, Russell Wilson has racked up 362 rushing yards on the season, which is 100 yards more than the QB in second place. 

According to Scott Kacsmar of Football Outsiders, “the Seahawks are 1-6 in Wilson era when allowing 24-plus points.”

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opp	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
PS	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	3
1	GB	W 36-16	19	28	67.9	191	2	0	3
2	@ SD	L 21-30	17	25	68	202	2	0	2
3	DEN	W 26-20	24	34	70.6	258	2	1	4
4	Bye	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	7
5	@ WSH	W 27-17	18	24	75	201	2	0	5
6	DAL	L 23-30	14	28	50.0	126	0	1	10
7	@ STL	L 26-28	23	36	63.9	313	2	0	8
8	@ CAR	W 13-9	20	32	62.5	199	1	1	9

 

Next Week Outlook

Luckily for Seattle’s offense, they get to host the Oakland Raiders on Sunday. The Raiders have the worst third-down defense in the NFL, allowing 48.5 percent of their opponent’s third downs to be converted. This should be just what they need to get their struggling offense back on track.

8. Tony Romo, Dallas Cowboys

Tom Pennington/Getty Images

This Week

8

Tony Romo looked to continue his impressive six-game winning streak when the Redskins came to town.  Washington had the seventh-ranked defense but had also allowed 15 receiving touchdowns.

Unfortunately, Romo and Co. failed to continue their win streak after the veteran QB suffered a back injury that he would eventually return from.

Week 8 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
WASH	L 17-20	17	28	60.7	209	1	0

 

Season Average

9.8

Five QBs in the NFL this season have completed at least 100 passes with a percentage of at least 68—Tony Romo is one of those QBs. His completion percentage is 68.2.

At one time this season, Romo was ranked as low as 16th, but he is now ranked among the top 10 for the fifth week in a row.

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
PS	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	8
1	SF	L 17-28	23	37	62.2	281	1	3	15
2	@ TEN	W 26-10	19	29	65.5	176	1	0	16
3	@ SL	W 34-31	18	23	78.3	217	2	1	13
4	NO	W 38-17	22	29	75.9	262	3	0	9
5	HOU	W 20-17	28	41	68.3	324	2	1	8
6	@ SEA	W 30-23	21	32	65.6	250	2	0	7
7	NYG	W 31-21	17	23	73.9	279	3	1	5
8	WASH	L 17-20	17	28	60.7	209	1	0	8

 

Next Week Outlook

Romo and his potent offense face a tough challenge this Sunday when they host the Cardinals. Arizona is one of just five teams averaging less than 20 points per game on defense. That means Tony’s injured back better be feeling pretty good if they want to come away victorious in this one.

7. Drew Brees, New Orleans Saints

Bill Haber/Associated Press

This Week

7

The Saints hosted the Packers last Sunday hoping to salvage a season quickly slipping away. Green Bay’s defense had stolen 10 passes from opponents this season—only the Giants had more picks up that point. Drew Brees managed to avoid any turnovers while throwing for over 300 yards for the fourth straight game to go with three scores.

Week 8 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
GB	W 44-23	27	32	84.4	311	3	0

 

Season Average

5.3

As usual, Brees and the Saints are throwing and completing a high volume of passes per game. His 205 completions are the third most in the league right now. This is the result of having the highest completion percentage (69.5) of all QBs with at least 100 pass attempts.

Brees has at least two fewer wins than any other QB in the top eight. The Saints are just 3-4 on the season and are in a division where 8-8 could win it.

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opp	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
PS	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	4
1	@ ATL	L 34-37	29	42	69	333	1	1	5
2	@ CLE	L 24-26	27	40	67.5	237	2	1	3
3	MIN	W 20-9	27	35	77.1	293	2	0	3
4	@ DAL	L 17-38	32	44	72.7	340	2	1	5
5	TB	W 37-31	35	57	61.4	371	2	3	7
6	Bye	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	5
7	@ DET	L 23-24	28	45	62.2	342	2	1	9
8	GB	W 44-23	27	32	84.4	311	3	0	7

 

Next Week Outlook

Brees and the Saints have the second-highest conversion rate (51.2) of any offense on third down in the NFL. On Sunday they take on the Panthers and the 21st-ranked defense. This is a pivotal divisional matchup for first place and a key game to help push one of these teams in a positive direction. Expect Brees to pull this game off. 

6. Andrew Luck, Indianapolis Colts

Justin K. Aller/Getty Images

This Week

6

Andrew Luck is already squeezing his name in there among the big hitters of the NFL, but on Sunday he was dramatically outplayed by the veteran Ben Roethlisberger. Nonetheless, Luck still managed to pass for 400 yards in the loss to the Steelers, and he also threw two picks.

Week 8 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
@ PIT	L 34-51	26	45	400	57.8	3	2

 

Season Average

6.4

Luck continues to complete more passes than any other QB in the league with 225. He also is tied with Peyton Manning for the most touchdown passes in the NFL (22) and has done this while having more dropped passes than any other QB (22), according to PFF.

One thing Luck does do more than he should is throw interceptions. He already has three games with multiple picks and only two games all season without an interception.  His nine on the year is tied for the third most behind just Blake Bortles and Geno Smith.

Despite the occasional hiccups, Luck has more passing yards (2,731) than any other QB right now and is playing very well.

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opp	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
PS	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	10
1	@ DEN	L 24-31	35	53	66.0	370	2	2	10
2	PHI	L 27-30	20	34	58.8	172	3	1	11
3	@ JAX	W 44-17	31	39	79.5	370	4	0	6
4	TEN	W 41-17	29	41	70.7	393	4	1	3
5	BAL	W 20-13	32	49	65.3	312	1	2	4
6	@ HOU	W 33-28	25	44	56.8	370	3	1	4
7	CIN	W 27-0	27	42	64.3	344	2	0	4
8	@ PIT	L 34-51	26	45	400	57.8	3	2	6

 

Next Week Outlook

Andrew Luck and the Colts face off against the Giants at Metlife stadium looking to rebound from an embarrassing loss against the Steelers. Luck has a tendency to give the ball away, and the Giants are second in the NFL in creating interceptions. This would be a good time for Indy to establish a running game. 

5. Tom Brady, New England Patriots

Jim Rogash/Getty Images

This Week

5

Tom Brady has come a long way since the first few weeks of the season when everyone was saying he was washed up. Against the Bears he put up some incredible numbers, passing for 354 yards and five scores with zero turnovers. This was certainly one of the brighter performances of this Hall of Famer’s career.

Brady had as many touchdown passes as he did incomplete passes.

Week 8 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
CHI	W 51-23	30	35	85.7	354	5	0

 

Season Average

8.5

Of all the QBs in the NFL with at least 10 touchdown passes, Brady has thrown the fewest picks (2) compared to 18 touchdown passes. He also has an impressive passer rating of 104.7.

In the first four games of the season, New England managed to put 80 total points on the board. In its last two games it's already piled on 78 points. Clearly this offense is starting to find its way.

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opp	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
PS	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	5
1	@ MIA	L 20-33	29	56	51.8	249	1	0	12
2	@ MIN	W 30-7	14	21	66.7	149	1	0	6
3	OAK	W 16-9	24	37	64.9	234	1	0	9
4	@ KC	L 14-41	14	23	60.9	159	1	2	14
5	CIN	W 43-17	23	35	65.7	292	2	0	12
6	@ BUF	W 37-22	27	37	73.0	361	4	0	8
7	NYJ	W 27-25	20	37	54.1	261	3	0	6
8	CHI	W 51-23	30	35	85.7	354	5	0	5

 

Next Week Outlook

This could be the last time we ever see Tom Brady and Peyton Manning go head-to-head in their careers. This week there’s a lot at stake, and the Patriots have the highest turnover margin in the NFL (+11). Brady has been hot and moving up the rankings as the Patriots look to continue their four-game winning streak.

4. Ben Roethlisberger, Pittsburgh Steelers

USA TODAY Sports

This Week

4

Ben Roethlisberger had a career day against one of the best defenses in the NFL. His 522 yards and six touchdown passes will go down as one of the greatest single-game performances in NFL history. Furthermore, he did this against one of the best defenses in the NFL.

Week 8 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
IND	W 51-34	40	49	81.6	522	6	0

 

Season Average

6.6

The Steelers may have a strong history built behind a power running game, but most people don’t realize Big Ben has completed more passes than any QB in the NFL besides Andrew Luck.  Even with such a high volume of passes, Roethlisberger is third among qualified QBs with a completion percentage of 68.4.

There are just seven qualified QBs with a passer rating of at least 100—Big Ben’s is 105.6 so far.

He is also the highest-graded QB, according to PFF.

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opp	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
PS	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	9
1	CLE	W 30-27	23	34	67.6	365	1	1	6
2	@ BAL	L 6-26	22	37	59.5	217	0	1	8
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	6
5	@ JAX	W 17-9	26	36	72.2	273	1	0	6
6	@ CLE	L 10-31	21	42	50.0	228	1	1	6
7	HOU	W 30-23	23	33	69.7	265	2	0	7
8	IND	W 51-34	40	49	81.6	522	6	0	4

 

Next Week Outlook

Big Ben will look to follow up a career day against one of the league’s best defenses by facing another good defense when the Ravens come to town. Baltimore’s D is allowing just 16.4 points per game, which is the second lowest in the NFL. 

3. Philip Rivers, San Diego Chargers

Jack Dempsey/Associated Press

This Week

3

Philip Rivers threw for three touchdowns in the loss to the Broncos, but he also threw two picks to go with it. This was not one of Rivers’ better performances.

Week 8 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
@ DEN	L 21-35	30	41	73.2	252	3	2

 

Season Average

2.7

The QB who was once ranked No.1 overall is one of just three QBs in the NFL with at least 20 touchdown passes. He is also completing 68.3 percent of his passes, which is one of the best completion rates in the NFL.

There are six QBs with at least 100 pass attempts also averaging at least eight yards per attempt. Philip Rivers is one of those with his 8.17 average.

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opp	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
PS	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	4
1	@ AZ	L 17-18	21	36	58.3	238	1	1	5
2	SEA	W 30-21	28	37	75.7	284	3	0	4
3	@ BUF	W 22-10	18	25	72.0	256	2	0	2
4	JAX	W 33-14	29	39	74.4	377	3	0	2
5	NYJ	W 31-0	20	28	71.4	288	3	1	1
6	@ OAK	W 31-28	22	34	64.7	313	3	0	1
7	KC	L 20-23	17	31	54.8	205	2	1	3
8	@ DEN	L 21-35	30	41	73.2	252	3	2	3

 

Next Week Outlook

It may be surprising to hear that the Dolphins have a higher ranked offense and defense right now. Their defense has allowed just 27 points in the last two games. The Chargers need to put together a running game to go with the impressive play of Philip Rivers.

2. Aaron Rodgers, Green Bay Packers

Stacy Revere/Getty Images

This Week

2

Despite the loss (and the injured hamstring he sustained in the second half) to the Saints, Aaron Rodgers finished second in passing yards this week with 418. He also threw two interceptions (neither was really his fault), which doubles he season total. 

Week 8 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
@ NO	L 23-44	28	39	71.8	418	1	2

 

Season Average

4.3

Rodgers may have lost last week, but he still has had one of the best seasons of any QB this year. He is currently second in the NFL with a passer rating of 113.6 and is averaging an impressive 8.37 yards per pass attempt.

One concerning stat is the 20 sacks the Packers have allowed on Aaron Rodgers. Only two QBs have been sacked more times thus far.

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opp	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
PS	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	6
1	@ SEA	L 16-36	23	33	69.7	189	1	1	7
2	NYJ	W 31-24	25	42	59.5	346	3	0	5
3	@ DET	L 7-19	16	27	59.3	162	1	0	7
4	@ CHI	W 38-17	22	28	78.6	302	4	0	4
5	MIN	W 42-10	12	17	70.6	156	3	0	3
6	@ MIA	W 27-24	24	42	57.1	264	3	0	3
7	CAR	W 38-17	19	22	86.4	255	3	0	2
8	@ NO	L 23-44	28	39	71.8	418	1	2	2

 

Next Week Outlook

Good news for the Packers—Aaron Rodgers will likely be limited during the week but is not expected to miss any time after suffering a hamstring injury on Sunday night. Luckily the Packers have a bye this week and can lick their collective wounds.

The Saints have struggled on defense so far, and Aaron Rodgers has been on fire since telling fans to “relax.”  

1. Peyton Manning, Denver Broncos

Doug Pensinger/Getty Images

This Week

1

The Chargers pass defense was one of the better units in the league. However, Peyton Manning proved to be too much of a challenge for any defense except for the Seahawks. The Bolts ranked third in fewest passing yards allowed (209.6), but Manning and the Broncos put up 286 yards and three passing touchdowns with no interceptions.

Week 8 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
SD	W 35-21	25	35	71.4	286	3	0

 

Season Average

1.2

Manning is currently tied for the lead with 22 passing touchdowns but his touchdown-to-interception ratio (22/3) is tops among his colleagues. He also has the highest yards per pass attempt (8.47) and passer rating (119.0) among qualified QBs.

Manning also has the highest QBR (90.1) of any qualified QB in the NFL.

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opp	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
PS	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	1
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	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	1
5	AZ	W 41-20	31	47	66.0	479	4	2	2
6	@ NYJ	W 31-17	22	33	66.7	237	3	0	2
7	SF	W 42-17	22	26	84.6	318	4	0	1
8	SD	W 35-21	25	35	71.4	286	3	0	1

 

Next Week Outlook

Peyton Manning and the Broncos travel to the frigid cold to take on one of the hottest teams in the NFL. The Patriots are 6-2 right now, and Peyton has a history of struggling in cold temperatures. This should be one of the most exciting matchups of the season between two legendary quarterbacks.

The Patriots are allowing just 210.9 passing yards per game, which is the secondfewest in the NFL.

The winner of this game may end up claiming home-field advantage throughout the playoffs.

 

 

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

Follow him on Twitter.