NFL Quarterback Power Rankings, Post-Week 12

Which quarterback is having the best season in the NFL? After Week 12, the power rankings are starting to solidify into more stable positions. However, there are still some major shifts each and every week.

As we get closer toward playoff time, it should be interesting to see who finishes among the top 10 QBs in the league.

Stay tuned for next week’s edition, when we see the results of Aaron Rodgers taking on Tom Brady. That battle on Sunday could end up being one of the best of the season.

Methodology

Paul Sancya/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 quarterbacks' 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 quarterback 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.

32. Blake Bortles, Jacksonville Jaguars

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This Week

32

Bortles and the Jaguars traveled to Indianapolis to take on the 6-4 Colts, looking to redeem themselves.

The Colts, who also dominated their meeting in September, 44-17, now lead the series 20-8.

Bortles averaged just 5.4 yards per attempt against the Colts and continued to show signs of regression.

Week 12 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
@ IND	L 3-23	15	27	55.6	146	0	1

 

Season Average

29.9

The rookie quarterback has thrown the most interceptions (15) in the NFL at this point and doesn’t seem to be learning how to reduce the costly turnovers.

If Jacksonville had a reliable second option and it didn’t destroy Bortles' confidence, the best option might be to sit him back down.

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
11	Bye	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	32
12	@ IND	L 3-23	15	27	55.6	146	0	1	32

 

Next Week's Outlook

With a 1-10 record, the Jaguars are just looking for victories at this point and will take them any way they can. Bortles might be able to have success at home against the Giants and their 31st-ranked defense.

31. Michael Vick, New York Jets

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This Week

31

Week 12 had the Jets and Bills facing off for Round 2 of this divisional matchup. In October, the Bills routed the Jets, 43-23.

Apparently Vick couldn’t help his team exact revenge after the game was postponed and relocated to Detroit. He was listed as questionable for the game with a foot injury and left the game early after making a tackle on his interception.

Week 12 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
BUF	L 3-38	7	19	36.8	76	0	1

 

Season Average

31.2

Of all the quarterbacks who have attempted at least 100 passes, Vick has the lowest completion rate (52.9 percent) and the lowest average yards per pass (4.99).

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
11	Bye	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	31
12	BUF	L 3-38	7	19	36.8	76	0	1	31

Next Week's Outlook

The Jets announced Geno Smith will start against a dominating Dolphins D on Monday night, per Rich Cimini of ESPN.com.

30. Derek Carr, Oakland Raiders

Ezra Shaw/Getty Images

This Week

30

Carr and the winless Raiders kicked off the week’s NFL action on Thursday night at home against the Kansas City Chiefs in a wet and sloppy game. This was the first time these two teams have played each other this season and there’s a long history of hatred between them.

The Raiders entered the game ranked 32nd in points scored and faced the top-ranked passing defense in the NFL.

Carr led his team to their first win of the season with impressive late-game heroics.

Week 12 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
KC	W 24-20	18	35	51.4	174	1	0

 

Season Average

29.7

Carr has started all 10 games for the Raiders and currently leads all NFL rookies with 2,249 passing yards and 14 TDs.

Raiders haven't played a sub-.500 team since Week 2. Carr currently has the second-lowest average yards per pass (5.54) among quarterbacks with at least 100 passes.

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
11	@ SD	L 6-13	16	34	47.1	172	0	0	30
12	KC	W 24-20	18	35	51.4	174	1	0	30

 

Next Week's Outlook

Next up for the Raiders is the 4-7 Rams. This is a winnable game for them but the Rams have pulled off some big wins this season. Neither team is playing for more than just pride at this point but sometimes that can be enough.

29. Ryan Mallett, Houston Texans

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This Week

29

Mallett looked to continue his early success when the Texans hosted the Bengals on Sunday. Houston was ranked 28th in passing yards per game (209) and was 2-2 at home entering the game. The Bengals were 1-2 on the road and have a secondary that’s been beaten up pretty badly.

Mallett appeared to be off in their loss, completing just 46.7 percent of his passes for 189 yards. As it turned out, he was battling through a significant injury, per NFL.com's Marc Sessler.

Week 12 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
CIN	L 13-22	21	45	46.7	189	0	1

 

Season Average

24.5

Mallett lasted two starts before being injured for the rest of the season (torn pectoral). This puts Brett Favre's 321 consecutive starts (including playoffs) into perspective.

His numbers dropped dramatically from his first game to the next.

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opp	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
PS	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
1	WSH	W 17-6	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
2	@ OAK	W 30-14	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
3	@ NYG	L 17-30	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
4	BUF	W 23-17	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
5	@ DAL	L 17-20	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
6	IND	L 28-33	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
7	@PITT	L 23-30	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
8	@ TEN	W 30-16	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
9	PHI	L 21-31	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
10	Bye	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
11	@ CLE	W 23-7	20	30	66.7	211	2	1	20
12	CIN	L 13-22	21	45	46.7	189	0	1	29

 

Next Week's Outlook

Unfortunately Mallett will not be back this season. Ryan Fitzpatrick will return as the starter. 

28. Shaun Hill, St. Louis Rams

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This Week

28

The giant-killers traveled to San Diego to face Philip Rivers and the Chargers. Hill got another chance to prove he can be a starting quarterback in this league but failed to capitalize like he did against the Broncos.

He failed to pass for 200 yards even though he attempted 35 passes. He did throw a pair of interceptions though.

The Rams' offense scored only 10 points on their own until late in the fourth quarter and seven of those came on a short field after a turnover.

Week 12 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
@ SD	L 24-27	18	35	51.4	198	1	2

 

Season Average

28

The backup quarterback has completed just 59.9 percent of his passes with two TDs and three INTs for a QBR score of 39.

It’s hard to say at this point but last week didn’t look like the Rams have upgraded from Austin Davis.

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opp	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
PS	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	32
1	MIN	L 6-34	8	13	61.5	81	0	1	N/A
2	@ TB	W 19-17	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
3	DAL	L 31-34	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
4	Bye	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
5	@ PHI	L 28-34	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
6	SF	L 17-31	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
7	SEA	W 28-26	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
8	@ KC	L 7-34	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
9	@ SF	W 13-10	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
10	@ AZ	L 14-31	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
11	DEN	W 22-7	20	29	69.0	220	1	0	24
12	@ SD	L 24-27	18	35	51.4	198	1	2	28

 

Next Week's Outlook

Hill and Co. will host the Raiders this Sunday in a relatively meaningless battle for pride.

27. Drew Stanton, Arizona Cardinals

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This Week

27

With Stanton now in charge of the team with the best record in football, there were high expectations for the inexperienced quarterback heading into hostile territory. Trying to win at CenturyLink Field in Seattle is one of the hardest feats in football.

Drew Stanton and Co. were held to three points on the day as they converted just 3-of-12 on third down.

Week 12 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
@ SEA	L 3-19	14	26	53.8	149	0	1

 

Season Average

29.2

Stanton may have a winning record backing up Carson Palmer this year, but he also has the second-worst completion percentage (53.6) in the NFL.  

Week-by-Week Breakdown

Week	Opp	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT	Rank
PS	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
1	SD	W 18-17	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
2	@ NYG	W 25-14	14	29	48.3	167	0	0	N/A
3	SF	W 23-14	18	33	54.5	244	2	0	32
4	Bye	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	32
5	@ DEN	L 20-41	11	26	42.3	118	0	0	29
6	WSH	W 30-20	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
7	@ OAK	W 24-13	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
8	PHI	W 24-20	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
9	@ DAL	W 28-17	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
10	STL	W 31-14	-	-	-	-	-	-	N/A
11	DET	W 14-6	21	32	65.6	306	2	2	26
12	@ SEA	L 3-19	14	26	53.8	149	0	1	27

 

Next Week's Outlook

Stanton travels to Atlanta this weekend to face the worst-ranked defense in the NFL. The 4-7 Falcons are still in the hunt for the divisional title and should be fighting for their lives. This could be an upset game that will have many Cards fans pushing the panic button.

26. Zach Mettenberger, Tennessee Titans

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This Week

26

On Sunday, Mettenberger led the 2-8 Titans to Philadelphia to take on the dangerous Eagles squad. Mettenberger tried to boost the 30th-ranked Titans offense against the Eagles and their 28th-ranked passing defense but the results were not exactly what they wanted.

Mettenberger did throw for a career-high 345 yards in the loss.  

Week 12 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
@ PHI	L 24-43	20	39	51.3	345	2	1

 

Season Average

28.6

Mettenberger may be a rookie quarterback who has yet to win his first game, but one of the most impressive stats for the rookie is his 8.11 yards per pass attempt. Only four quarterbacks with a minimum of 100 attempts have a higher average.

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
11	@ PIT	L 24-27	15	24	62.5	263	2	1	29
12	@ PHI	L 24-43	20	39	51.3	345	2	1	26

 

Next Week's Outlook

Mettenberger and the Titans head to Houston to take on the Texans in what is sure to be a physical battle.  Perhaps the rookie can sneak away with his first win against the 29th-ranked defense.

25. Teddy Bridgewater, Minnesota Vikings

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This Week

25

The Vikings hosted the red-hot Green Bay Packers last Sunday with their heralded rookie quarterback at the helm. Bridgewater got a chance to observe one of the greatest QBs in the game, Aaron Rodgers, from the opposite sideline.

In the last meeting between these two teams the Packers won decisively, 44-10.

Against the Packers, Bridgewater had a career-high 32 rushing yards and had his first multiple touchdown game, but still came up short.

Week 12 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
GB	L 21-24	21	37	56.8	210	2	1

 

Season Average

27.5

Per Bleacher Report’s Ian Kenyon, Teddy Bridgewater is 1-for-6 without a TD pass when throwing over 30 yards.

Bridgewater is averaging only 6.45 yards per pass attempt on the season while completing 60.3 percent of his passes.

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
11	@ CHI	L 13-21	18	28	64.3	158	1	1	28
12	GB	L 21-24	21	37	56.8	210	2	1	25

 

Next Week's Outlook

The Vikings have the 30th-ranked offense and will take on the Carolina Panthers. Their secondary can be beaten at times, which can benefit the rookie quarterback.

24. Robert Griffin III, Washington Redskins

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This Week

24

Robert Griffin III headed across the country to try to silence his critics by beating the fourth-ranked defense in the league, the 49ers.

Griffin finished the San Francisco loss averaging just 3.3 yards per pass attempt while passing for 106 yards and an alarmingly low 7.9 Total QBR score.

Week 12 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
@ SF	L 13-17	11	19	57.9	106	0	0

 

Season Average

22.3

And this point, Griffin is struggling to read defenses and is only completing dump-offs, screens and crossing routes. He seems to have completely lost his confidence after a long stretch of poor performances going back to last season.

His 69.7 percent completion rate is a bit deceiving but is still impressive.

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
11	TB	L 7-27	23	32	71.9	207	1	2	22
12	@ SF	L 13-17	11	19	57.9	106	0	0	24

 

Next Week's Outlook

Apparently Colt McCoy will get the start against the Colts on Sunday after Griffin III was benched by the head coach, per The Washington Post's Mike Jones. It’s hard to say whether we’ll see the young quarterback again this season.

23. Josh McCown, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

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This Week

23

The Bucs traveled to face the Bears after winning their first game of the season a week earlier. Tampa Bay was ranked 19th in passing and 19th in total defense.

McCown has his work cut out for him in this game—having said that, this was a very winnable game for the Bucs.

Both head coach Lovie Smith and McCown faced their old team at their old stomping ground.

Josh McCown had two turnovers deep in their own territory, which helped the Bears take control of the game in the second half. The veteran quarterback's carelessness led to a fumble and a badly overthrown ball that was intercepted. Despite the critical errors, he finished 25-of-48 passing for 341 yards.

Week 12 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
@ CHI	L 13-21	25	48	52.1	341	1	2

 

Season Average

19.6

McCown has completed 60.4 percent of his passes with an average of 7.42 yards per pass attempt with seven TDs and eight 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
11	@ WSH	W 27-7	15	23	65.2	288	2	0	23
12	@ CHI	L 13-21	25	48	52.1	341	1	2	23

Next Week's Outlook

The Bucs are set to host the Bengals this Sunday. Cincy is 7-3-1 and Tampa Bay is 2-9. Smith said the offensive line needs to play better, per Pat Yasinskas of ESPN.com.

22. Mark Sanchez, Philadelphia Eagles

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This Week

22

Playing host to the Titans, the Eagles ranked 30th in the takeaway margin. Sanchez threw for 307 yards while completing 69.8 percent of his passes.

Week 12 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
TEN	W 43-24	30	43	69.8	307	1	2

 

Season Average

24.2

Sanchez has thrown for more than 300 yards in each of his three starts. He continues to look very comfortable in this offense and has looked especially sharp throwing on the move.

He is currently averaging 8.13 yards per pass, which is one of the highest of any quarterback this year.

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
11	@ GB	L 20-53	26	44	59.1	346	2	2	27
12	TEN	W 43-24	30	43	69.8	307	1	2	22

 

Next Week's Outlook

The Eagles (8-3) travel to Dallas (8-3) for a divisional matchup against the Cowboys. Both teams are playing well and are in a two-way battle for the divisional title. This could be a high-scoring shootout on Thanksgiving Day.

21. Brian Hoyer, Cleveland Browns

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This Week

21

The Browns traveled to Atlanta to face the struggling Falcons, who have the worst-ranked defense in the NFL.

Brian Hoyer got to enjoy his new toy, wide receiver Josh Gordon, who returned from a suspension to rack up 120 yards on eight catches.       

Hoyer, however, put together one of the worst starts of his career, throwing three costly picks that kept Atlanta in the game. The second interception wiped out a potential game-sealing drive in the last quarter with a poor toss to Gordon in the end zone. Despite the onslaught of turnovers on Sunday, he still managed to rally Cleveland to a last-second 26-24 win over the Falcons.

Week 12 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
@ ATL	W 26-24	23	40	57.5	322	0	3

 

Season Average

21.4

When you’re ranked in the 20s it’s possible to throw three INTs with no TD passes and still stay where you are in the rankings. Poor performances by guys in this tier along with a game-winning drive and 322 yards passing helped to cushion the blow of his turnover-filled outing.

Completion percentage has been his biggest issue so far. He has finished three games this season completing less than 48 percent of his passes.  

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
11	HOU	L 7-23	20	50	40.0	330	1	1	21
12	@ ATL	W 26-24	23	40	57.5	322	0	3	21

 

Next Week's Outlook

“Brian Hoyer has led game-winning drives against all three NFC South teams he has faced. The Browns are at the Panthers in Week 16,” via ESPN Stats and Info.

20. Matthew Stafford, Detroit Lions

USA TODAY Sports

This Week

20

This Sunday at Gillette Stadium, two of the league’s best teams squared off. Stafford needed to play better than he has been in order for this team to beat the Patriots.

The Patriots had the 16th-ranked defense, so moving the ball wasn’t easy for Stafford and their struggling offense. They were held to just nine points as Stafford completed 39.1 percent of his passes on the day.

Week 12 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
@ NE	L 9-34	18	46	39.1	264	0	1

 

Season Average

16.7

As Stafford continues his descent, the Lions have failed to score a touchdown in the last two games, both of which were critical losses to quality opponents. 

It’s crazy to think Stafford can have the type of day he had against the Patriots and not drop in the rankings. He can thank Mallett, Hoyer, McCown and RG3 for all playing poorly in the same week.

Stafford is completing just 58.8 percent of his passes this season.

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
11	@ ARI	L 6-14	18	30	60.0	183	0	1	19
12	@ NE	L 9-34	18	46	39.1	264	0	1	20

 

Next Week's Outlook

On Thanksgiving Day, the Lions play host to the Chicago Bears in a traditional holiday matchup. Stafford should be able to move the ball on this defense but his 21st-ranked offense will be evenly matched against the 21st-ranked defense of Chicago. 

19. Kyle Orton, Buffalo Bills

Rick Osentoski/Associated Press

This Week

19

Head coach Doug Marrone offered up his vote of confidence for Kyle Orton and it appeared to pay off against the Jets. Orton and the Bills beat the Jets 38-3 in a one-sided blowout. The Bills’ two highest point totals this season have come against the Jets.

Week 12 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
NYJ	W 38-3	24	32	75	230	2	0

 

Season Average

22.7

“Orton has been sacked on 7.4 percent of his dropbacks, the sixth-worst rate among qualified passers. In addition, nine of his 21 sacks have come on third down, and his 11 percent sack rate on third down is fifth worst in the NFL,” per Chase Stuart of The New York Times.

The quarterback has also gone four games without an interception. During that time, the team is 2-2.

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
11	@ MIA	L 9-22	22	39	56.4	193	0	0	25
12	NYJ	W 38-3	24	32	75	230	2	0	19

Next Week's Outlook

The Browns come to town Sunday in an exciting battle between two potential playoff teams. The Browns have the 20th-ranked defense while Orton’s offense is ranked 24th in the league.

18. Jay Cutler, Chicago Bears

USA TODAY Sports

This Week

18

Jay Cutler and the Bears hosted the Buccaneers last Sunday. Both teams were coming off victories and are looking to extend their good fortunes.

Jay Cutler did nothing all game, finishing with 130 yards passing on an average of 4.8 yards per pass. He also fumbled again, extending his NFL turnover lead to 18.

However, the Bears managed to win in a close battle that could’ve gone either way.

Week 12 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
TB	W 21-13	17	27	63.0	130	1	0

 

Season Average

15.9

For all the issues going on with Jay Cutler, he has still managed to be one of the most accurate passers among starting QBs, ranking seventh with a 66.8 percent completion rate.

Cutler is tied with Eli Manning with 12 INTs, which is the second most in the NFL behind only rookie Blake Bortles.

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
11	MIN	W 21-13	31	43	72.1	330	3	2	17
12	TB	W 21-13	17	27	63.0	130	1	0	18

 

Next Week's Outlook

Jay Cutler and the Bears have their work cut out for them this Thursday when they face the third-ranked defense in the NFL. Detroit has one of the most disciplined secondaries in the NFL. This means Cutler will have to play a smart, calculated game to pull off the upset.

17. Cam Newton, Carolina Panthers

Matt Rourke/Associated Press

This Week

17

Bye

Week 12 Performance

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

 

Season Average

12.9

Newton is completing 58.6 percent of his passes, which for those not keeping track of modern passing statistics is not good. The NFL average this season is around 63 percent.

Newton has thrown 12 TDs and 10 INTs thus far. This is not surprising given the talent he has to work with up front and on the outside. For the most part, Newton has done as much as he can with nagging injuries and limited playmakers.

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
11	ATL	L 17-19	23	37	62.2	292	2	2	18
12	Bye	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	17

 

Next Week's Outlook

This weekend the Panthers take on the Vikings in Minnesota. Both teams have seven losses but the Panthers have the edge on offense.

Can rookie Teddy Bridgewater beat Cam Newton?

16. Andy Dalton, Cincinnati Bengals

David J. Phillip/Associated Press

This Week

16

On Sunday, the Bengals traveled to Houston to play the 4-5 Texans. You probably had no idea the Texans have won the last five meetings between these two teams. But that steak ended on Sunday.

The Bengals were 15th in passing yards per game (240), while Houston was 29th in passing yards allowed (273). Dalton had a decent game and the Bengals came out on top 22-13.

Week 12 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
@ HOU	W 22-13	24	35	68.6	233	1	1

 

Season Average

13.7

Dalton has ranged in the rankings between ninth and 25th. His current average is 13.7. The Red Rifle has a passer rating of 83.4 and is completing 62.4 percent of his throws. He has 12 TD passes and 10 INTs.

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
11	@ NO	W 27-10	16	22	72.7	220	3	0	14
12	@ HOU	W 22-13	24	35	68.6	233	1	1	16

 

Next Week's Outlook

Traveling to Tampa Bay seems like a good opportunity for the Bengals to get a win. The Bucs are just 2-9 but are better than their record. It’s hard to predict which version of Dalton will show up this Sunday.

15. Colin Kaepernick, San Francisco 49ers

Ezra Shaw/Getty Images

This Week

15

San Francisco is finding ways to win the close games but will need to put more points on the board moving forward. They just barely beat Washington 17-13.

Week 12 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
WSH	W 17-13	20	29	69.0	256	1	1

 

Season Average

14.2

With Kap under center and armed with a variety of veteran weapons, the 49ers have averaged just 20.7 points per game this year, the lowest in the Jim Harbaugh era.

Kaepernick has surpassed 250 yards on just three occasions this year. He also needs to get the ball out of his hands earlier, even if that means throwing it away. He has been sacked more times (34) than any other quarterback in the NFL.

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
11	@ NYG	W 16-10	15	29	51.7	193	1	0	15
12	WSH	W 17-13	20	29	69.0	256	1	1	15

  

Next Week's Outlook

This Thursday on Thanksgiving the 49ers will go head-to-head with the Seahawks at Levi's Stadium. This game has tons of playoff implications and both teams will be fighting hard for the victory.

14. Eli Manning, New York Giants

Al Bello/Getty Images

This Week

14

The divisional matchup against the Cowboys was a closely fought battle that saw Eli Manning fall frustratingly short of a win.

Manning looked to get revenge for the 31-21 loss the Cowboys handed them back in October but lost by three points.

Dallas had the 15th-ranked defense in the league at the time and Manning still managed to put up 338 passing yards and three TDs.

Week 12 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
DAL	L 28-31	29	40	72.5	338	3	1

 

Season Average

17.4

Manning's receivers have dropped 21 of his passes, second most to Luck’s 22. That’s the same number of touchdowns he’s thrown this season to go with 12 INTs.

He currently has a modest passer rating of 88 and a QBR score of 66.

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
11	SF	L 10-16	22	45	48.9	280	1	5	16
12	DAL	L 28-31	29	40	72.5	338	3	1	14

 

Next Week's Outlook

The Giants head down to Jacksonville to face the Jaguars. Jacksonville’s defense is ranked 30th, which means it could be a big day for Manning if he can avoid the costly turnovers.

13. Alex Smith, Kansas City Chiefs

Ezra Shaw/Getty Images

This Week

13

Smith and the Chiefs squared off against their longtime divisional foes on Thursday night. This was the first of their two matchups this season and the Raiders have not been a very good team this year.

This should have been a good week to see the Chiefs jump-start a passing attack that has been dormant for much of the season. Instead they laid an egg.

Smith was terrible on third and fourth down. Smith was 2-of-9 with one first down, and also took two sacks in those situations.

Week 12 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
@ OAK	L 20-24	20	36	55.6	234	2	0

 

Season Average

17.1

Alex Smith might have been the first QB to lose to the Raiders this year but his two pass TDs and no INTs helped buoy his rankings for Week 12 and prevent too much of a fall.

Smith would be ranked higher if he could find a way to generate more yards with either his feet or his arm. He is currently one of the lowest-ranked starting QBs in yards per pass attempt with an average of 6.76.

The longest completion of the season for Smith was just 34 yards. That’s the lowest of any starting QB in the NFL.

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
11	SEA	W 24-20	11	16	68.8	108	0	0	12
12	@ OAK	L 20-24	20	36	55.6	234	2	0	13

 

Next Week's Outlook

The Chiefs are just one game behind the Broncos for the divisional lead and will look to even things up on Sunday night when they go head-to-head. Denver edged out the Chiefs in the first game, 24-17.

12. Joe Flacco, Baltimore Ravens

USA TODAY Sports

This Week

12

Joe Flacco and the Ravens returned from their bye week with two weeks to prepare for a Monday Night Football matchup against the Saints.

Flacco relied on his running game to put points on the board to match the potent offense of New Orleans.  

He completed 75 percent of his passes on the day and played well overall.

Week 12 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
@ NO	W 34-27	18	24	75	243	1	0

 

Season Average

16.9

Offensive coordinator Gary Kubiak has done a nice job bringing along this offense, and Joe Flacco seems to be responding well to the new system. He has currently thrown 18 TD passes and eight INTs while completing 63.2 percent of his passes.

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
11	Bye	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	13
12	@ NO	W 34-27	18	24	75	243	1	0	12

 

Next Week's Outlook

Sunday’s matchup with the 7-4 Chargers should be one of the better games of the week. The Chargers have a top-10 defense to go along with one of the best quarterbacks in the league. If the Ravens can keep their high-powered running game going, it should take pressure off Flacco and help control the tempo of the game.

11. Ryan Tannehill, Miami Dolphins

Jack Dempsey/Associated Press

This Week

11

The Dolphins had the tough task of going into Mile High Stadium to take on a Broncos team that was predictably motivated. Tannehill has been great as of late but the Broncos possessed too much offensive firepower for the Dolphins to keep up.

Week 12 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
@ DEN	L 36-39	26	36	72.2	228	3	1

 

Season Average

16.5

Tannehill ranks eighth in QBR since coach Joe Philbin publicly doubted his QB's future as the starter heading into Week 4.

On the season he has 20 TD passes and eight INTs.

The young QB continues to show improvement from year to year and week to week.

Tannehill is certainly trending upward, and it’s time people start recognizing that he’s been a big reason his team has had success this season.

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
11	BUF	W 22-9	26	34	76.5	240	2	0	11
12	@ DEN	L 36-39	26	36	72.2	228	3	1	11

 

Next Week's Outlook

On Monday night two top-10 defense will do battle in New York. Expect the Dolphins to pull off the victory against a Jets squad that has failed to close out games.

10. Matt Ryan, Atlanta Falcons

John Bazemore/Associated Press

This Week

10

Ryan and the Falcons put forth their best effort against the Browns last week, hoping to get one step closer to that divisional title.

The Falcons had the 10th-ranked offense entering the game but their defense also proved formidable against Cleveland’s passing attack.

Matt Ryan completed 27 of 43 passes for 273 yards despite being harassed all day by a Browns pass rush that dialed up three sacks and six hits. 

Week 12 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
CLE	L 24-26	27	43	62.8	273	2	1

 

Season Average

9.2

With much of this roster not panning out as they hoped, it’s hard to blame Ryan for Atlanta's disastrous season.

Ryan has thrown for over 3,000 yards so far while completing an impressive 65.1 percent. He also has 19 TDs compared to just nine INTs.

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
11	@ CAR	W 19-17	31	45	68.9	268	1	0	9
12	CLE	L 24-26	27	43	62.8	273	2	1	10

 

Next Week's Outlook

Considering the Falcons are very much alive in the divisional race, they should be highly motivated against the 9-2 Cardinals. This game smells like an upset waiting to happen.

9. Russell Wilson, Seattle Seahawks

Stephen Brashear/Associated Press

This Week

9 

Wilson and the Seahawks were ready to play against the Cardinals on Sunday. These teams had not faced each other yet, and it was exciting to watch two juggernauts go head-to-head in the division.

The Seahawks came out on top 19-3 while Wilson completed 77.3 percent of his passes on the day.

Week 12 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
ARI	W 19-3	17	22	77.3	211	1	0

 

Season Average

6.7

If you add together TD passes and rushing TDs while subtracting INTs and fumbles lost, no QB ranked lower than Wilson has a better ratio than his plus-13. Furthermore, there is no QB ranked lower than Wilson who has both a better QBR and Pro Football Focus grade than he has.

Wilson is averaging 58 rushing yards per game, the most among all QBs in the league.

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
11	@ KC	L 20-24	20	32	62.5	178	2	0	10
12	ARI	W 19-3	17	22	77.3	211	1	0	9

 

Next Week's Outlook

The Seahawks travel to San Francisco to play the 49ers on Thanksgiving. This should be a physical blood bath between eternal enemies. Seattle has the No. 1-ranked defense while the 49ers are ranked second.

Will either team be able to move the ball effectively in this game?

8. Philip Rivers, San Diego Chargers

Lenny Ignelzi/Associated Press

This Week

8

Rivers needed just 87 yards to reach 35,000 career passing yards. He passed that milestone against the Rams on Sunday when he passed for 291 yards in the close victory over the underrated opponent.

Week 12 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
STL	W 27-24	29	35	82.9	291	1	1

 

Season Average

3.8

Rivers is among the most accurate passers in the NFL with perhaps the best touch on his arching balls, which is partly why he’s averaging 7.81 yards per pass. This has helped him to a 101.4 passer rating on the season.  

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
11	OAK	W 13-6	22	34	64.7	193	1	0	7
12	STL	W 27-24	29	35	82.9	291	1	1	8

 

Next Week's Outlook

The Ravens play host to Rivers and the Chargers this Sunday with limited depth in the secondary. This will likely be exploited by the talented quarterback. The real challenge for the Chargers in this game will be stopping the Ravens' rushing attack.

7. Andrew Luck, Indianapolis Colts

AJ Mast/Associated Press

This Week

7

Luck and Co. looked to get back on track and put the loss to New England behind them for good. What better team for that than the 1-8 Jaguars?

Jacksonville had the 25th-ranked defense against the pass, which fared well for the most prolific passing game in the NFL in terms of yards. Luck threw for 253 yards and avoided adding to his INT total.

Week 12 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
JAX	W 23-3	21	32	65.6	253	1	0

 

Season Average

6.4

Luck currently leads all QBs in passing yards (3,641) and has an impressive 7.85 yards per pass attempt.

Luck has been asked to do a lot in this offense and has generally stood up to the challenge. Over his last four games, however, the Colts have gone 2-2, while Luck has failed to complete at least 60 percent of his passes in three of those contests. He finally got his completion rate back on track.

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
11	NE	L 20-42	23	39	59.0	303	2	1	6
12	JAX	W 23-3	21	32	65.6	253	1	0	7

 

Next Week's Outlook

Surprisingly, the Redskins boast the 10th-ranked defense in the NFL. This should be a good challenge for Andrew Luck and the rest of that offense. He leads the top-ranked passing attack in football right now.

6. Tony Romo, Dallas Cowboys

Julio Cortez/Associated Press

This Week

6

The Cowboys returned from their bye to face the New York Giants at home. This was a big day for Romo, considering he had two weeks to prepare for the Giants and their 31st-ranked defense. He was able to put up 275 yards passing with four TDs and no INTs while completing 69.2 percent of his passes.

Week 12 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
@ NYG	W 31-28	18	26	69.2	275	4	0

 

Season Average

9.2

Romo is third among all starting QBs completing 68.8 percent of his passes with an impressive 8.54 average yards per pass attempt. He leads all QBs with a 111.4 passer rating and is third in the NFL with a QBR score of 80.5.

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
11	Bye	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	8
12	@ NYG	W 31-28	18	26	69.2	275	4	0	6

 

Next Week's Outlook

The Cowboys will face the high-powered Eagles on Thanksgiving in what should be an exciting matchup between divisional foes. The winner of this game will assume sole possession of first place in the division and get one step closer to locking up a playoff berth.

5. Drew Brees, New Orleans Saints

Jonathan Bachman/Associated Press

This Week

5

Ravens QB Joe Flacco had won four of his past five starts on Monday Night Football. Saints QB Drew Brees has won nine of his past 10. This was an exciting matchup between two franchise QBs who thrive under the lights.

On this night, Flacco came out on top thanks to a potent running attack and efficient play on both sides of the ball. Brees still managed 420 yards through the air and three TDs in the loss.

Week 12 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
BAL	L 27-34	35	45	69.5	420	3	1

 

Season Average

5.4

Brees has always been magnificent at accumulating passing yards. His 3,491 passing yards ranks third in the NFL. What makes all those yards more impressive is that he leads all starting QBs in completion percentage (70.3).

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
11	CIN	L 10-27	33	41	80.5	255	1	0	5
12	BAL	L 27-34	35	45	69.5	420	3	1	5

 

Next Week's Outlook

Things don’t get any easier for the Saints as they prepare to take on the Pittsburgh Steelers this Sunday. New Orleans will be fighting for their lives while the Steelers need a victory just as much in order to stay relevant in the AFC North.

The big question will be whether Brees can find success on the road and outdoors.

4. Ben Roethlisberger, Pittsburgh Steelers

Mark Zaleski/Associated Press

This Week

4

Bye

Week 12 Performance

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

 

Season Average

5.6

Big Ben certainly deserves to be ranked this high. According to Pro Football Focus, Roethlisberger has the third-highest grade among QBs this season. Plus, he is one of just five QBs to surpass the 3,000-yard mark this far.

Big Ben is also one of five QBs who have thrown at least 24 TD passes thus far and is fourth among qualified QBs with a 105.3 passer rating.

If the season ended today, his 68.3 completion percentage would be the highest of his career.

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
11	TEN	W 27-24	21	32	65.6	207	1	1	3
12	Bye	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	4

 

Next Week Outlook

Roethlisberger and the Steelers will try to slow down Drew Brees and the Saints this Sunday. Expect a close game that could come down to the last drive.

3. Peyton Manning, Denver Broncos

Jack Dempsey/Associated Press

This Week

3

Peyton Manning was shut down against the Rams and tried to bounce back against one of the best defenses in the league. The Dolphins were ranked second in the NFL on defense.

Manning did not face much pressure against Miami's talented front seven. The Dolphins had only one QB hit and one sack on the day. This helped him to complete 80 percent of his passes with four touchdowns and no interceptions. He led all QBs during Week 12 with a QBR score of 91.3.

Week 12 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
MIA	W 39-36	28	35	80.0	257	4	0

 

Season Average

1.6

Before Sunday’s big win against Miami, Manning produced the worst three-game stretch in a Broncos uniform, tossing six interceptions and eight touchdown passes. Denver lost two of the three games, including blowouts against New England and St. Louis. His 48.9 QBR score across those games was uncharacteristic of what we’ve grown accustomed to from him. 

Manning's arsenal of highly skilled receivers has helped propel the future Hall of Famer to 3,558 yards passing, good enough for the second-most in the league.

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
11	@ STL	L 7-22	34	54	63.0	389	1	2	4
12	MIA	W 39-36	28	35	80.0	257	4	0	3

 

Next Week's Outlook

Sunday Night Football will be fun to watch with the Broncos and the Chiefs squaring off. The last time these two teams met back in September, the Broncos pulled off a close 24-17 victory. Can Manning duplicate that same outcome?

2. Tom Brady, New England Patriots

Jared Wickerham/Getty Images

This Week

2

Tom Brady and the Patriots played host to the Detroit Lions and their No. 1 overall defense of Sunday. This was a big test for Brady and the Patriots moving forward. He was leading an offense ranked seventh overall and ninth in passing offense.

Brady had an 86.2 Total QBR against Detroit, fifth best among qualified quarterbacks in Week 12. When the game mattered, Brady was at his best, which is why Brady fared so much better in Total QBR than passer rating last weekend.

Week 12 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
DET	W 34-9	38	53	71.7	349	2	1

 

Season Average

6.8

Over the past two months, Tom Brady has orchestrated impressive wins against teams that were in first place in the AFC North, AFC West, AFC South and NFC North.

The Patriots have won each of their last 4 games by at least 20 points.

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
11	@ IND	W 42-20	19	30	63.3	257	2	2	2
12	DET	W 34-9	38	53	71.7	349	2	1	2

 

Next Week's Outlook

According to ESPN Stats and Info, “Brady can expect to see a lot of blitzing from the Packers defense, which has sent extra men on 178 opposing quarterback dropbacks (fifth-most in the NFL). But that’s of little concern to him. Brady’s QBR against the blitz is 93.1, best in the league. “

1. Aaron Rodgers, Green Bay Packers

Ann Heisenfelt/Associated Press

This Week

1

Aaron Rodgers faced the Vikings in the cold on Sunday. The Packers were second in the league in points scored, while the Vikings had the fourth-ranked pass defense in the league. The best QB in football was able to win against the rookie QB but it was certainly a close game.

Week 12 Performance

Opponent	Outcome	Comp	Att	PCT	Yards	TD	INT
@ MIN	W 24-21	19	29	65.5	209	2	0

 

Season Average

3.4

For third time in last four seasons, Aaron Rodgers has reached 30 TD passes. He has led this offense to at least 28 points in the first half of four consecutive home games.

Rodgers leads all QBs (minimum 100 pass attempts), averaging 8.65 yards per pass attempt.

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
11	PHI	W 53-20	22	36	61.1	341	3	0	1
12	@ MIN	W 24-21	19	29	65.5	209	2	0	1

 

Next Week Outlook

According to ESPN Stats and Info, the “Patriots at Packers on Sunday will mark first time Tom Brady and Aaron Rodgers start against each other.”

 

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

Follow him on Twitter.