NFL Quarterback Power Rankings, Post Week 10

After 10 weeks of NFL action, there are eight quarterbacks separating from the pack in these power rankings. Behind them are two franchise quarterbacks, one is struggling for wins while the other is struggling for weapons.

After those two is a massive clump of QBs separated by marginal differences. This clump of about 10 guys represent the middle class of NFL starting quarterbacks.

According to ESPN Stats and Info, “NFL teams have averaged 242.5 pass yards per game this season, which would be a league-high since the merger in 1970.”

Once you get lower than that, the turnover rate (and losses) seems to go up tremendously.

There are currently only four starting QBs in the NFL with more INTs than TDs. Dalton, Bridgewater, Bortles & McCown.

Let’s see what massive changes occurred following Week 10 action.

Methodology

USA TODAY Sports

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

David Richard/Associated Press

Brandon Weeden, Dallas Cowboys

Returned to the bench for Tony Romo

Last Ranked: 30th

Mike Glennon, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Benched for Josh McCown

Last Ranked: 25th

32. Blake Bortles, Jacksonville Jaguars

Matt Dunham/Associated Press

This Week

32

Bortles attempted to lead his team to a victory across the pond against the Dallas Cowboys and their 13th ranked defense. Winning this game required sound decision-making with minimal turnovers, something the rookie struggled with but did improve upon in the 17-31 loss to Dallas.

The 290 passing yards he had on the day was the second-highest of his brief career.  

Week 10 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
DAL	L 17-31	22	37	59.5	290	0	1

 

Season Average

29.3

Unfortunately, Bortles has the lowest grade of any QB in the NFL, per PFF, and continues post games with negative grades each week. His only game with a positive PFF score came in Week 6 against the Titans.

His QBR of 25.6 is the second lowest among current starting QBs.

With all of that, Bortles has shown the potential to be a franchise QB and is already an upgrade from Chad Henne.

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
9	@ CIN	L 23-33	22	33	66.7	247	2	1	32
10	DAL	L 17-31	22	37	59.5	290	0	1	32

 

Next Week Outlook

Bye

31. Michael Vick, New York Jets

Alex Trautwig/Getty Images

This Week

31

The worst passing attack in the NFL was somehow able to overcome a matchup against the Steelers. This might have been the last time Vick got a shot to prove he can be a starter in this league, and he passed the test with a solid performance and the surprising win.  

In the upset over the red-hot Steelers, Vick became the first QB in NFL history to rush for 6,000 career yards. That says a lot.

Week 10 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
PIT	W 20-13	10	18	55.6	132	2	0

 

Season Average

31.3

Vick hasn’t played much this season, but his 75.9 passer rating is the fourth lowest among starting QBs. He has also completed just 55.9 percent of his passes for 5.18 yards per pass and a QBR of 33.7.

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
9	@ KC	L 10-24	21	28	75.0	196	1	0	31
10	PIT	W 20-13	10	18	55.6	132	2	0	31

Next Week Outlook

Bye

30. Zach Mettenberger, Tennessee Titans

Gail Burton/Associated Press

This Week

30

The rookie QB faced an incredibly tough test when he and the 2-6 Titans traveled to Baltimore to face the Baltimore Ravens. Heading into Week 10, the Ravens’ defense was just one-of-five units allowing less than 20 points per game.

Rookie QB Zach Mettenberger was great for the first couple of drives but then fell apart after that. If the Titans had a worthwhile QB they'd likely have won this game. The Ravens did nothing in the first half.

Week 10 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
@ BAL	L 7-21	16	27	59.3	179	1	1

 

Season Average

29.3

With a QBR of 24.8, Zach Mettenberger has the lowest point total of any current starter in the league.

His second start of the season was not an improved performance. His numbers across the board were down and so too was his ranking this week.  

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
9	Bye	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	29
10	@ BAL	L 7-21	16	27	59.3	179	1	1	30

 

Next Week Outlook

On Monday night, the Titans with host the Steelers in a primetime matchup that should end with a Pittsburgh victory.   

The Steelers are allowing just 35.5 percent conversions on third downs, the fifth best percentage in the NFL and the Titans are the worst third-down offense in the league, converting on just 29.9 percent of their attempts.

29. Derek Carr, Oakland Raiders

Ezra Shaw/Getty Images

This Week

29

Carr led the 32nd-ranked offense against the most prolific offense over the last two years. The rookie QB failed to find his first victory of the season against one of the most talented teams in the NFL.

The Broncos were more focused than usual after rebounding from a bad loss to the Patriots.

Carr threw two TD passes but was clearly uncomfortable against Denver’s formidable pass rush. 

The Broncos game seemed to highlight some of Derek Carr’s flaws coming into the NFL. The rookie had two turnovers under pressure while trying to find an open man from a tight pocket. Overall, Carr's 30 completions gained just 192 yards in the loss.

Week 10 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
DEN	L 17-41	30	47	63.8	192	2	2

 

Season Average

29.7

Raiders’ fans got pretty excited in Week 6 when Carr managed to throw four TDs against the Chargers. Since then, however, generating any type of points has been incredibly challenging. Oakland’s offense has only surpassed 20 points on two occasions this season. Meanwhile, Carr has now had back-to-back games with multiple INTs.

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
9	@ SEA	L 24-30	24	41	58.5	194	2	2	28
10	DEN	L 17-41	30	47	63.8	192	2	2	29

 

Next Week Outlook

Oakland will continue its pursuit for its first win of the season when they travel to San Diego to play the 5-4 Chargers. Can Carr and his 24th ranked passing attack find a much-needed win against a talented Chargers’ team?

28. Austin Davis, St. Louis Rams

Norm Hall/Getty Images

This Week

28

Austin Davis and the Rams hoped to slay another giant this week when they faced the 7-1 Cardinals who brought with them a defense allowing just 19.5 points per game. To make matters worse, the Cardinals were leading the league with 12 interceptions.

Davis would lose the game and add two more picks to that defense’s total

Week 10 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
@ AZ	L 14-31	17	30	56.6	216	1	2

 

Season Average

26.2

After opening his NFL career with some impressive performances, Austin Davis has been trending downward the longer the season goes on. In the last three games this offense has combined for 34 total points. During that time, Davis has thrown five INTs compared to three pass TDs while completing just 56.9 percent of his passes. 

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
9	@ SF	W 13-10	13	24	54.2	105	1	2	26
10	@ AZ	L 14-31	17	30	56.6	216	1	2	28

 

Next Week Outlook

Davis will take on one of the best defenses in the NFL when they host the Denver Broncos on Sunday. Trying to avoid the rush of Von Miller and DeMarcus Ware all day should be quite the challenge.

27. Teddy Bridgewater, Minnesota Vikings

Hannah Foslien/Getty Images

This Week

27

The Vikings got to enjoy a bye week.

Week 10 Performance

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

 

Season Average

27.8

Bridgewater has used his legs the right amount as he gets comfortable. At times he looks too small for the big hits, but he's tough and smart.

Moving forward, the rookie will need to improve upon his 6.7 yards per pass attempt, which is among the worst in the league.

On the year, Bridgewater has thrown just three TDs compared to five INTs.

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
9	WSH	W 29-26	26	42	61.9	268	1	0	27
10	Bye	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	27

 

Next Week Outlook

This Sunday the Vikings take the short trip to Soldier Field to play a Bears' defense than has struggled in recent weeks.

Will Bridgewater be able to move the ball downfield with his 29th ranked passing attack?

The Bears defense is ranked fifth in causing fumbles (13) so the rookie QB will have to be careful protecting the ball in the pocket.

26. Josh McCown, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Cliff McBride/Getty Images

This Week

26

The Bucs benched QB Mike Glennon in favor of the veteran Josh McCown, whom they acquired this offseason. Unfortunately for Tampa Bay, the change in signal callers did not result in a victory against the Falcons.

Despite the loss, Josh McCown was one of just four QBs to throw for over 300 yards in Week 10.

Week 10 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
ATL	L 17-27	27	43	62.8	301	2	2

 

Season Average

18

According to Advancedfootballanalytics.com (this uses a stat called adjusted yards per pass attempt that takes into account sack yards and interceptions) McCown has the lowest average (3.3) of any current starter in the league.

McCown has thrown four TDs compared to six INTs.

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opp	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
PS	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	13
1	CAR	L 14-20	22	35	62.9	183	2	2	18
2	STL	L 17-19	16	21	76.2	179	0	1	15
3	@ ATL	L 14-56	5	12	41.7	58	0	1	N/A
4	@ PIT	W 27-24	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
5	@ NO	L 31-37	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
6	BAL	L 17-48	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
7	Bye	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
8	MIN	L 13-19	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
9	@ CLE	L 17-22	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
10	ATL	L 17-27	27	43	62.8	301	2	2	26

Next Week Outlook

McCown will take the 29th ranked offense into the Nation’s capitol to play the 3-6 Redskins. This is a winnable game for the Bucs but it’ll take a strong performance by their QB.

25. Andy Dalton, Cincinnati Bengals

John Grieshop/Getty Images

This Week

25

The return of A.J. Green and the emergence of Mohamed Sanu should’ve given Andy Dalton a stellar one-two punch heading down the final stretch of the regular season. However, Dalton played one of the worst games by an NFL QB in recent memory.   

The Browns had allowed 391.8 yards per game on defense heading into the game, which meant the Bengals’ offense had a great chance for a big day.

Dalton threw for just 86 yards and three INTs while completing 30.3 percent of his passes.

Week 10 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
CLE	L 3-24	10	33	30.3	86	0	3

 

Season Average

13.5

According to ESPN Stats and Info, Andy Dalton has overthrown his receivers 46 different times this season, which is the second-most in the NFL.

His terrible Week 10 outing caused him to plummet from 14th to 25th on the power rankings, which is by far the most dramatic fall in a single week this season.

The Bengals’ QB has only thrown two TDs in the last four games.

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
9	JAX	W 33-23	19	31	61.3	233	2	2	14
10	CLE	L 3-24	10	33	30.3	86	0	3	25

 

Next Week Outlook

Cincy will travel to New Orleans to take on the 4-5 Saints as both teams need a win desperately.

It should be interesting to see how the Red Rifle rebounds from such an embarrassing performance last Thursday night.

24. Mark Sanchez, Philadelphia Eagles

Elsa/Getty Images

This Week

24

On Monday night the Eagles hosted the Panthers in a blowout victory. The Panthers caused more fumbles (14) than any other defense in the NFL heading into the game but they were unable to take one away from Mark Sanchez.

This was the first time Sanchez has thrown for at least 300 yards with multiple touchdown passes and no turnovers all in same game.

Chip Kelly does for quarterbacks what Quentin Tarantino does for actors. He plucks them out of the garbage, dusts them off and turns their entire career around.

Week 10 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
CAR	W 45-21	20	37	54.0	332	2	0

 

Season Average

24

Mark Sanchez’s 9.05 yards per pass attempt is the highest among current starters. He also has a solid passer rating of 97.7.

An area that will need improvement moving forward is his completion percentage (59.3). Any QB completing less than 60 percent is well below the league average of 63.

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opp	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
PS	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
1	JAX	W 34-17	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
2	@ IND	W 30-27	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
3	WSH	W 37-34	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
4	@ SF	L 21-26	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
5	STL	W 34-28	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
6	NYG	W 27-0	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
7	Bye	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
8	@ ARI	L 24-20	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
9	@ HOU	W 31-21	15	22	68.2	202	2	2	24
10	CAR	W 45-21	20	37	54.0	332	2	0	24

 

Next Week Outlook

The Eagles will look to continue their look as they face perhaps their biggest challenge of the season this Sunday against the Packers.

Green Bay’s defense is vulnerable but Sanchez will likely have to win in a shootout against Aaron Rodgers. This should be interesting.

23. Kyle Orton, Buffalo Bills

USA TODAY Sports

This Week

23

Kyle Orton had his work cut out for him against the Chiefs. Kansas City’s defense was the only unit allowing less than 200 passing yards per game, while the Bills had the 20th-ranked passing attack.

Orton finished the day with 259 yards through the air one TD pass, but the offense only managed to put 13 points on the board.

Week 10 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
KC	L 13-17	29	48	60.4	259	1	0

 

Season Average

23

According to Erik Frenz of Bleacher Report, “Kyle Orton has started 75 games and has thrown more than two touchdown passes in a game only six times.”

One of those occasions came in Week 8 against the Jets.

Orton has a respectable passer rating of 98.4 while averaging 7.3 yards per pass. He seems to be entrenched in between the 25-19 range, which shouldn’t be enough to keep EJ Manuel on the bench for long.

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
9	Bye	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	19
10	KC	L 13-17	29	48	60.4	259	1	0	23

Next Week Outlook

When the Bills and the Fins met in September, Buffalo won the game 29-10. At that time EJ Manuel was the QB. Now Kyle Orton will get his shot Thursday Night against the same defense—which is currently ranked fourth overall in total yards allowed.

After a poor performance last week, Orton could be in danger of being sent back to the bench if he can’t replicate the success the team had earlier against Miami.

22. Jay Cutler, Chicago Bears

Tom Lynn/Getty Images

This Week

22

The Bears looked to end a two-game losing streak when they headed to Green Bay to take on the Packers. The Packers had the 25th-ranked defense at the time, which meant Cutler should’ve been able to put points on the board. However, it’s always difficult to anticipate the type of performance Cutler will bring to each game.

Cutler threw 37 passes on the night but only managed to score 14 points.

Week 10 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
@ GB	L 14-55	22	37	59.5	272	1	2

 

Season Average

15.6

According to former NFL quarterback Sage Resenfels, “Though I was mostly a backup, I felt that when I played I needed to bring energy to my team and stadium. I feel Cutler is missing that.”

Jay Cutler is tied for the league lead with rookie Blake Bortles in turnovers with 15 and tied with Cam Newton for losing more fumbles (5) than any other QB in the NFL at the moment.

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
9	Bye	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	16
10	@ GB	L 14-55	22	37	59.5	272	1	2	22

 

Next Week Outlook

The Bears will host the Vikings in their first of two games this season. Cutler should be able to beat a rookie QB but the Vikings defense is ranked ninth in total yards per game.

21. Ryan Fitzpatrick, Houston Texans

Patric Schneider/Associated Press

This Week

21

The Texans got to do a bit of self scouting during their bye week. They also were able to prepare their new starting QB.

Week 10 Performance

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

 

Season Average

20.4

Ryan Fitzpatrick is consistently ranked in the bottom third of NFL QBs. This may suggest it’s time to move on and let backup Ryan Mallett show us what he can do.  

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

This is likely the last we’ll see of Fitz this season as he was replaced by Ryan Mallet during the bye.

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
9	PHI	L 21-31	13	27	48.1	203	2	1	23
10	Bye	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	21

 

Next Week Outlook

Ryan Mallett will make his first career start this Sunday in Cleveland where the weather is projecting snow for the game. This could get sloppy and the team who can win the turnover battle will probably come out victorious.

20. Robert Griffin III, Washington Redskins

Ronald Martinez/Getty Images

This Week

20

Week 10 was a bye.

Week 10 Performance

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

 

Season Average

22

Although he does have a small sample size, RG3 has the highest completion percentage (72.1) of any starting QB in the NFL and is averaging 8.1 yards per pass. His 95.0 passer rating is solid but he needs to do a better job finding the endzone moving forward.

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opp	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
PS	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	26
1	@ HOU	L 6-17	29	37	78.4	267	0	0	22
2	JAX	W 41-10	2	3	66.7	38	0	0	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	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
8	@ DAL	W 20-17	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
9	@ MIN	L 26-29	18	28	64.3	251	1	1	20
10	Bye	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	20

 

Next Week Outlook

Washington returns from a bye week refreshed and ready to do some damage against the 1-8 Buccaneers. This is a good opportunity for Griffin III to find his groove against the 29th ranked defense. A big day for Washington should be expected and anything less would be disappointing.

19. Cam Newton, Carolina Panthers

Elsa/Getty Images

This Week

19

The Panthers were ranked 21st in passing yards per game while the Eagles were ranked 22nd in defense and were without their quarterback on defense, LB DeMeco Ryans.

A plethora of injuries for Newton seemed to slow the QB down all day as he was sacked nine times on the day, the most in his career.  He just didn’t look very mobile in this blowout loss as failed to escape the pressures or buy time.

Week 10 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
@ PHI	L 21-45	25	40	62.5	306	2	3

 

Season Average

12

According to ESPN Stats and Info, Cam Newton has overthrown more targets (54) than any other QB in the NFL. ‘Newton is tied with Colin Kaepernick as the most-sacked QB in the NFL (31).

He has now completed just 58.1 percent of his passes on the season.

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
9	NO	L 10-28	10	28	35.7	151	0	1	17
10	@ PHI	L 21-45	25	40	62.5	306	2	3	19

 

Next Week Outlook

Newton needs to play better if he hopes to win the NFC South sitting at 3-6-1. Luckily they get to pick on the second-worst defense in the NFL when they host the Atlanta Falcons.

If Newton fails to put of decent numbers in this game, I’d say it would be time to panic.

18. Matthew Stafford, Detroit Lions

Joe Robbins/Getty Images

This Week

18

Stafford was certainly aided by the return of Calvin Johnson on Sunday in their win over the Dolphins. The Dolphins were ranked third in the NFL in yards allowed (304.6) coming into the game.

Week 10 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
MIA	W 20-16	25	40	62.5	280	2	1

 

Season Average

16.2

It’s time the Lions offense started living up to expectations rather than relying on an overachieving defense. A lot of that rests on Stafford and now that his weapons are all getting healthy there should be no more excuses.

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
9	Bye	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	18
10	MIA	W 20-16	25	40	62.5	280	2	1	18

 

Next Week Outlook

Stafford and Co. will face yet another tough challenge this week when they travel to the desert to face the Cardinals. The Cardinals have allowed just 37.3 percent third-down conversions from their opponents, which is ranked eighth.

The matchup in the secondary will be incredible to watch as Patrick Peterson and Antonio Cromartie try to slow down Calvin Johnson.

17. Colin Kaepernick, San Francisco 49ers

Chris Graythen/Getty Images

This Week

17

The 49ers traveled to New Orleans to face a Saints team that was presumably finding their groove. In a must-win game for the 49ers to keep their playoff hopes alive, Colin Kaepernick showed up big in big moments.

His brilliant fourth-and-10 scramble followed by a 51-yard completion to Michael Crabtree from Colin Kaepernick to force overtime in the Niners' win in New Orleans might end up being the most important play of the season for both teams involved.

Kap also led all QB’s in Week 10 in completion percentage (43) for passes at least 15 yards, as per AdvancedFootballAnalytics.com.

Week 10 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
@ NO	W 27-24	14	32	43.8	210	1	0

 

Season Average

14

Kaepernick has jumped up quite a bit after a performance where he completed just 43 percent of his passes—the reason—he was actually having a good day and his receivers continued to let him down all game.

“The 49ers’ dropped six passes, the most by any team in a game this season,” according to ESPN Stats and Info. In addition, no QB has dealt with more dropped passes (25) or sacks (31) on the season than has Kap, as per PFF.

With all of that said, he was aided in moving up the rankings by poor performances from Dalton, Cutler, Orton and Newton.

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
9	STL	L 10-13	22	33	66.7	237	1	0	21
10	@ NO	W 27-24	14	32	43.8	210	1	0	17

  

Next Week Outlook

Traveling to MetLife stadium to play the New York Giants, who have the worst-ranked defense in the NFL, should be the perfect opportunity for Kaepernick and Co. to put up some big numbers and continue on the path towards keeping their playoff hopes alive.

The 49ers must protect their QB, who has taken more sacks (31) than anyone in the NFL.

16. Brian Hoyer, Cleveland Browns

Andy Lyons/Getty Images

This Week

16

Hoyer was able to pull off some big plays last week as he faced a struggling Bengals defense that was ranked 29th in the NFL. 

He didn’t throw any TD passes this week but he didn’t need to for the 24-3 win.

Week 10 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
@ CIN	W 24-3	15	23	65.2	198	0	0

 

Season Average

21.4

Like Kaepernick, Hoyer was the welcomed beneficiary of several poor performances from the middles class of QBs. While his performance was just enough to stand still, several other names fell behind.

Hoyer remains as the deep ball king this season. According to PFF, he has completed 56.4 percent of his passes beyond 20 yards (including drops), while attempting deep throws 14.1 percent of the time.

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
9	TB	W 22-17	21	34	61.8	300	2	2	22
10	@ CIN	W 24-3	15	23	65.2	198	0	0	16

 

Next Week Outlook

Below-freezing temperatures are expected in Cleveland against the Houston Texans on Sunday. Hoyer has had a decent year so far, especially with the deep ball. If he can stay out of the arms of J.J. Watt, he should be able to take advantage of the 28th ranked defense in the league.

15. Joe Flacco, Baltimore Ravens

USA TODAY Sports

This Week

15

The Ravens were ranked 12th in passing when they hosted a struggling Titans squad that was allowing 25.3 points per game going into Week 10. Baltimore won the game as expected although Flacco failed to put up impressive numbers.

He completed less than 60 percent of his passes and threw for just 169 yards on the day.

Week 10 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
TEN	W 21-7	16	27	59.3	169	1	0

 

Season Average

18

A standout game by Stafford, Kaepernick, Hoyer or Newton would have sent Flacco back a few notches, but none of the aforementioned QBs did enough to jump Flacco. He’ll stay ranked 15th for the third-straight week now. 

Flacco’s season numbers are right on point with an average NFL starter across the board.

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
9	@ PIT	L 23-43	30	45	66.7	303	2	1	15
10	TEN	W 21-7	16	27	59.3	169	1	0	15

 

Next Week Outlook

Bye.

14. Carson Palmer, Arizona Cardinals

Rick Scuteri/Associated Press

This Week

14

It’s hard to know which Rams team was going to show up for this divisional matchup. The Cardinals obviously didn’t take the Rams for granted. St. Louis had already knocked off the Seahawks and the 49ers.

Unfortunately for the Cardinals, this would turn out to be Palmer’s final game of the season after suffering a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee. He will miss the remainder of the season, according to head coach Bruce Arians in his Monday press conference.

In the picture above you can see the moment the left knee gives out on him.

Week 10 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
STL	W 31-14	25	36	69.4	241	0	1

 

Season Average

17.5

Cardinals win last week propelled them to 8-1 for the first time since 1948. It’s unfortunate that Palmer will not be around to see the season through the end.

He will finish the year completing 62.9 percent of his passes with a 7.26 average per pass to go with 11 TDs and three INTs.

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
9	@ DAL	W 28-17	22	34	64.7	249	3	1	12
10	STL	W 31-14	25	36	69.4	241	0	1	14

 

Next Week Outlook

With Palmer out of the season and Drew Stanton set to replace him, the challenge couldn’t be any bigger for the Cardinals. On Sunday they face the Detroit Lions and a defense that has given up fewer points per game (283.4) than any other team in the NFL.

Stanton, who is completing less than 50 percent of his passes (48.9), will need to have an efficient day. 

13. Alex Smith, Kansas City Chiefs

Gary Wiepert/Associated Press

This Week

13

Alex Smith had to make good use of his athleticism and toughness this week against a Bills defense that entered the game second in the league in sacks with 28. They harassed Smith all day yet he and the Chiefs still found a way to pull out a gutsy victory.

Smith failed to throw a TD pass on the day but he did run one in himself for the first time all season.

Week 10 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
@ BUF	W 17-13	17	29	58.6	177	0	0

 

Season Average

17.9

Amazingly, Alex Smith has yet to throw a TD pass to a wide receiver this season. In fact, he only has three TD passes in the last four games combined yet the Chiefs keep winning.

So why is Smith moving up in the rankings? For starters, he has only thrown one TD pass in the eight games combines and has completed 69.8 percent of his passes since the bye week.

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
9	NYJ	W 24-10	21	31	67.7	199	2	0	11
10	@ BUF	W 17-13	17	29	58.6	177	0	0	13

 

Next Week Outlook

Alex Smith will have to make good use of his athleticism this week against a Bills defense that’s second in the 

This should be a tough defensive battle between the Chiefs and the Seahawks at Arrowhead Stadium.

After a shaky first half of the season, the Seahawks defense is finally starting to play like they did during their Super Bowl run. This spells bad news for Alex Smith and the Chiefs who rank 30th in passing offense.

12. Eli Manning, New York Giants

Otto Greule Jr/Getty Images

This Week

12

Eli Manning turned his attention to a secondary that’s been one of the more dangerous units in the NFL. The Seahawks had the fourth-ranked defense going into the game and the Giants were just an average offense all around.

Manning had gone four games and over 150 passes without an interception before Earl Thomas and Richard Sherman got him on that lob into the endzone. That was perhaps the turning point in the game, as it was tied 17-17 at the time.

Week 10 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
@ SEA	L 17-38	29	44	65.9	283	1	1

 

Season Average

17.8

For the most part, Manning has done an outstanding job limiting his turnovers this season after a 2013 season where he set a career-high in interceptions (27).

He started the season off ranked 27th and has been slowly moving his way into the top-10. It will likely take some victories for him to take the next step.  The Giants have currently lost four-straight games.

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
9	IND	L 24-40	27	52	51.9	359	2	0	13
10	@ SEA	L 17-38	29	44	65.9	283	1	1	12

 

Next Week Outlook

Eli Manning and the Giants host the 49ers and the second-ranked defense in the league. This game will also feature the return of Aldon Smith, arguably one of the best pass rushers in the NFL.

11. Ryan Tannehill, Miami Dolphins

Joe Robbins/Getty Images

This Week

11

Tannehill and the Dolphins traveled to Detroit to take on the stingiest defense in the NFL. The Lions were allowing a league-best 290.4 yards and 15.8 points per game heading into Week 10.

His accuracy against the Lions still looked spotty, especially on the deep ball as he left some points on the field against the Dolphins.

Week 10 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
@ DET	L 16-20	27	38	71.1	207	1	1

 

Season Average

17.6

If Week 9 was any indicator, we can expect to see a much-improved QB who is quickly trending upward.

Once Tannehill started running around like the former wide receiver he is, his numbers got significantly better. He is now averaging 27 yards per game on the ground.

In just five weeks Tannehill have gone from 22nd in the power rankings to 11th.  Part of the reason is he has completed more the 70 percent of his passes in three of the five games.

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
9	SD	W 37-0	24	34	70.6	288	3	0	10
10	@ DET	L 16-20	27	38	71.1	207	1	1	11

 

Next Week Outlook

What better time to face the best pass rush in the NFL than right after your starting LT goes down with a season-ending injury?

Tannehill better use his legs often this Thursday Night when they face the Bills in this exciting divisional matchup.

In addition to leading the league in sacks (34) the Bills are also ranked sixth in total yards allowed per game (320.9).  To make matters worse, Tannehill is 1-4 lifetime against the Bills.

10. Russell Wilson, Seattle Seahawks

Steve Dykes/Getty Images

This Week

10 

The Seahawks hosted the New York Giants on Sunday. Wilson leads the 30th-ranked passing attack, but the Giants defense was 28th in points allowed.  To up the ante, rarely do the Seahawks lose a game at home.

According to AdvancedFootballAnalytics.com, Wilson struggled in the passing game, averaging just 3.7 adjusted yards per pass attempt—the lowest of any starting QB for Week 10.

Week 10 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
NYG	W 38-17	10	17	58.8	172	0	2

 

Season Average

6.2

Russell Wilson now has three games this year with at least 100 yards rushing and 100 yards passing.

Only six QBs have at least two rushing TDs this season, Wilson leads the league with four. He also has over 200 more yards rushing than the QB with the second-most rushing yards.

Wilson is also one of just four QBs to start in every game this year and not give up a fumble to the other team. Those are the kind of intangibles that get overlooked by people who can’t see above-average value in Wilson as a QB.

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
9	OAK	W 30-24	17	35	48.6	179	0	0	8
10	NYG	W 38-17	10	17	58.8	172	0	2	10

 

Next Week Outlook

The Seahawks will head to Kansas City to face a tough 6-3 Chiefs squad who are ranked seventh in total yards per game. Expect a physical, defensive battle between two teams struggling to push the ball downfield.

Can Wilson find a way to win with his legs yet again?

9. Matt Ryan, Atlanta Falcons

Brian Blanco/Associated Press

This Week

9

The only defense worse than the Falcons' heading into Week 10 was the one Matt Ryan was playing against. The Bucs had a tough time trying to stop one of the best QBs in the NFL, and one desperate for a victory, but they did hold him to 219 yards and a just one TD pass.

Week 10 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
@ TB	W 27-17	20	31	64.5	219	1	0

 

Season Average

9.1

Since October 5th, Ryan has gone without throwing over 300 yards in a game and has only thrown more than one touchdown on one occasion since Week 4

Ryan has been frustrated by 22 dropped passes so far this season, according to Pro Football Focus, which is tied for fourth-most in the NFL. Those miscues have come on passes that have traveled a combined 255 yards in the air, also per PFF, which is second-most in the league. So not only are passes being dropped, but they’re being dropped further downfield than most, which means they’re significantly hurting Ryan’s numbers and the Falcons ability to win games.

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
9	Bye	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	9
10	@ TB	W 27-17	20	31	64.5	219	1	0	9

 

Next Week Outlook

The battle for the NFC South continues this week with the Falcons vs. Panthers and somebody has to win it.

The Falcons are ninth in third-down conversions (42.7). One thing Ryan will need to be aware of his holding onto the ball. The Panthers’ defense is ranked second in the NFL with 14 forced fumbles.

8. Tony Romo, Dallas Cowboys

Tim Ireland/Associated Press

This Week

8

Dallas Cowboys QB Tony Romo (back) returned after a one-game absence and completed 20 of his 27 pass attempts for 246 yards, three touchdowns and no interceptions in Week 10 against the Jacksonville Jaguars in London. He finished with a season-high passer rating of 138.8.

Week 10 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
@ JAX	W 31-17	20	27	74.1	246	3	0

 

Season Average

9.7

There are just three QBs with at least 100 pass attempts averaging more than 8.3 yards per pass, Tony Romo is one of those guys at 8.34.

After a rough start to the season, Romo has been a stalwart in the top 10. He has thrown at least one touchdown pass in every game this season.

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	WSH	L 17-20	17	28	60.7	209	1	0	8
9	ARI	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
10	@ JAX	W 31-17	20	27	74.1	246	3	0	8

 

Next Week Outlook

Bye.

7. Drew Brees, New Orleans Saints

Bill Haber/Associated Press

This Week

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The challenge got more intense for the Saints when they played host to the 49ers and their second-ranked defense. This was a hard-fought battle between a top-tier offense and a top-tier defense, each playing for their lives.

San Francisco had the third-ranked pass defense in the NFL, and the Saints had the third-ranked passing attack. 

Both teams were 4-4 on the season but the 49ers found a way to win in overtime.

Brees had a multiple INT game for just the second time all year and completed less than 60 percent of his passes for the first time.

Week 10 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
SF	L 24-27	28	47	59.6	292	3	2

 

Season Average

5.5

Per ESPN Stats and Info, Drew Brees' TD against the 49ers gives him 29 straight games with a TD pass. Brees has also thrown a TD pass in 83 of his last 84 games.

Although Brees has had his struggles at times, he is clearly the biggest reason this offense is ranked second in points per game.

 

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
9	@ CAR	W 28-10	24	34	70.6	297	1	1	6
10	SF	L 24-27	28	47	59.6	292	3	2	7

 

Next Week Outlook

The Bengals head to New Orleans to take on the 4-5 Saints. Both teams are desperate for a win and looking to win their respective divisions.

Drew Brees should have fun picking apart a defense ranked 30th in total yards allowed per game.

6. Andrew Luck, Indianapolis Colts

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This Week

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Luck gets to rest during a Week 10 bye.

Week 10 Performance

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

 

Season Average

6.4

Even with a bye week Luck continues to lead the NFL in passing yards with 3,085.

The one downside to his game is that he’s averaging about one INT per game.

Andrew Luck had 23 TD passes in each of his first two seasons yet already has 26 in just nine games this year. 

For those thinking Luck is ranked too low on this list, just know that his completion percentage (63.6), passer rating (100), QBR (72) and PFF grade (10.2) are all lower than any QB rated above him.

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	57.8	400	3	2	6
9	@ NYG	W 40-24	25	46	54.4	354	4	0	7
10	Bye	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	6

 

Next Week Outlook

In perhaps the best matchup of the week, the 6-3 Colts play host to the 7-2 Patriots. Andrew Luck has the top-ranked passing attack while the Patriots are ranked 14th against the pass.

5. Philip Rivers, San Diego Chargers

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This Week

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This was a good time for the Chargers to have their bye.

Week 10 Performance

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

 

Season Average

3.1

Philip Rivers currently has the third-best QBR or 83.1 and is one of just three qualified QBs to grade out in the 80s. He is also completing 67 percent of his passes, which makes him one of the most efficient QBs in the NFL.

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
9	@ MIA	L 0-37	12	23	52.2	138	0	3	5
10	Bye	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	5

 

Next Week Outlook

On Sunday the Chargers play host to the winless Oakland Raiders as they look to get back on track following their Week 10 bye.

Philip Rivers has thrown for 339 YPG, 11 TDs in last 5 road games against Oakland—he has also thrown for 231 yards per game and 7 TDs in last 5 home games vs. the Raiders.

4. Tom Brady, New England Patriots

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This Week

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The Patriots were able to rest and recharge with a Week 10 bye.

Week 10 Performance

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

 

Season Average

7.7

The Patriots have won five straight and have been averaging 40 points per game since the Kansas City blowout and Brady has 18 TDs and just one INT during that time.

Brady now has 22 TDs on the season.

He is currently at his highest rank of the season thanks in large part to his 16 TD passes and one INT in the last four games.  

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
9	DEN	W 43-21	33	53	62.3	333	4	1	4
10	Bye	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	4

 

Next Week Outlook

Tom Brady should be able to have some success against the Colts shaky secondary but he’ll still need to score more points than Andrew Luck.

This Sunday Night should be an epic battle between two of the best QBs representing the old and the new.

3. Ben Roethlisberger, Pittsburgh Steelers

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Big Ben traveled to New York to take on the Jets. Though the Jets were ranked sixth in total yards allowed, they’ve also given up the second-most points per game (28) in the league.

Although Ben Roethlisberger has been unstoppable lately, he wasn’t able to match his magical numbers from the past couple of weeks. Nor was he able to pull off a victory over the struggling New York Jets, but he did throw for more passing yards (343) than any other QB in Week 10.

Week 10 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
@ NYJ	L 13-20	30	43	69.8	343	1	2

 

Season Average

5.9

In 10 games, Roethlisberger has already surpassed the 3,000-yard mark on the season, becoming just the second player to do so this season. His 3,063 yards is the second-most in the NFL, which illustrates just how successful he’s been at pushing the ball downfield.

Big Ben has also been sacked more times (26) than any other QB in the AFC. He will need to stay healthy as we get closer to the playoffs. The good news is that he is completing the highest percentage of passes under pressure (71.6) among starting QBs thus far.

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
9	BAL	W 43-23	25	37	67.6	340	6	0	2
10	@ NYJ	L 13-20	30	43	69.8	343	1	2	3

 

Next Week Outlook

After being upset in Week 10 by the Jets, it’s hard to imagine the Titans pulling off the feat for the second time in a row. Pittsburgh should stomp on the 22nd ranked defense in the league.

2. Peyton Manning, Denver Broncos

Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images

This Week

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Oakland only had eight sacks and three INTs on the year heading into Week 10 so Peyton was able to keep his jersey clean but not his stats.

The Raiders failed to sack Manning on the day but did pick the ball off twice. However, Manning completed 31 of his 44 pass attempts for 340 yards and five touchdowns with two interceptions in the Week 10 game against the Oakland Raiders.

Week 10 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
@ OAK	W 41-17	31	44	70.5	340	5	2

 

Season Average

1.2

Manning extended his record with at least two touchdown passes to 15 straight games, and his streak of 48 straight games with at least one TD pass is the third longest, breaking a tie with former Baltimore Colts QB Johnny Unitas.

With Andrew Luck and the Colts enjoying their bye—Manning now has the season lead with 29 TD passes.

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
9	@ NE	L 21-43	34	57	59.6	438	2	2	1
10	@ OAK	W 41-17	31	44	70.5	340	5	2	2

 

Next Week Outlook

The Rams don’t seem to pose much of a threat to the Broncos on paper but they have been known to generate a couple of upsets this season with wins over the 49ers and Seahawks.

Expect Peyton to be ready as usual.

 

1. Aaron Rodgers, Green Bay Packers

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This Week

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Rodgers played host to the Chicago Bears in a heated divisional rival. The Packers had the 13th-ranked passing offense, and the Bears have struggled as of late on defense and offense. Chicago is currently 21st on the defensive side of the ball.

Aaron Rodgers put up 6 TD passes in the first half which ties Daryle Lamonica of the Raiders for the most in just two quarters. He also avoided any turnovers while propelling his team to a dominating victory over their division rivals, the Chicago Bears.

Week 10 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
CHI	W 55-14	18	27	66.7	315	6	0

 

Season Average

3.9

“Aaron Rodgers leads the NFL in Total QBR (85.5) and is off to his best start since his 2011 MVP year (88.6 QBR through nine games),” per ESPN Stats and Info.

Advancedfootballanalytics.com has a stat called adjusted yards per pass attempt, which takes into account sack yards and interceptions. Aaron Rodgers leads all QBs in this category with a 7.2 average.

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
9	Bye	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	3
10	CHI	W 55-14	18	27	66.7	315	6	0	1

 

Next Week Outlook

The Packers will take on the Eagles in Lambeau Field in what should be quite a shootout.  Both defenses are struggling but no quarterback is playing better football than Aaron Rodgers.

 

 

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

Follow him on Twitter.