Fantasy Football Week 11: Move Over Mr. Manning Because Philip Rivers Is Top Dog

Time after time people debate the elite quarterbacks in the NFL.

Invariably the same names continue to arise: Brady, Brees, and Manning are all a given. Some suggest that Aaron Rodgers is becoming a part of the group, while most recently there is a calling to don the title upon Michael Vick.

But where is Philip Rivers?

Always overlooked for reasons that go beyond comprehension, Rivers has performed as well as if not better than any other at his position. Leading the league in passing yards and tied for first in passing touchdowns, his numbers serve as further evidence that he belongs to be grouped with the elite.

There's no question that those owners who used a first round selection on Peyton Manning wish they had waited for Rivers. Heck, anyone who burned an early round pick on Brady, Brees, or Rodgers are sure to be upset as well. The fearless Rivers has provided his owners with a phenomenal return on investment for where he was selected on draft day.

What's really amazing here is the fact that he's done it without his best weapons. WR Vincent Jackson has been holding out (although he's now back with the team) throughout the first nine games, and injuries to Malcom Floyd and TE Antonio Gates have left the Chargers with a lot to manage.

Additionally, rookie RB Ryan Mathews has struggled to stay in the lineup due to injury which further puts the pressure on Rivers, but he continues to stand tall.

Arguably the most valuable player at the quarterback position for owners this season, Rivers is beginning to finally receive the recognition that he deserves. While he may not have the charm or savvy that some of his counterparts possess, it's that fire, grit and intensity that have placed him squarely atop the slag heap.

Rivers wouldn't have it any other way.