NFL Week 16 Predictions: Projecting the Week's Top QB Performances

The following five quarterbacks are projected to have the top performances in Week 16 of the NFL season:

1. Tom Brady, New England Patriots

It's been awhile, but remember what Brady did to the Miami Dolphins back in Week 1? 517 yards and four scores, including a 99-yarder to Wes Welker. The Dolphins' pass defense has improved since then, but Brady is currently on a six-game stretch where he's thrown 15 touchdowns against just one interception. Expect big numbers again.  

2. Drew Brees, New Orleans Saints

Over his last four games, Brees has thrown for almost 1,500 yards and 14 touchdowns. Again, that's in just the last four games. Brees is playing out of his mind, and he's staying indoors in Week 16 to play the Atlanta Falcons. At the Superdome, Brees has been unstoppable. Against the Falcons' 23rd ranked fantasy defense vs. opposing quarterbacks, Brees should continue his historic stretch.

3. Cam Newton, Carolina Panthers

Newton had arguably his finest performance of the 2011 season (at least in fantasy terms) against the Buccaneers in Week 13, as he threw for over 200 yards and a touchdown and ran for over 50 with three scores. Tampa Bay has one of the NFL's worst defenses, and they'll be without Aqib Talib, who was put on IR.

4. Aaron Rodgers, Green Bay Packers

One poor game and Rodgers gets knocked down all the way to fourth? Yes, but we're not looking back on the Chiefs' disaster when projecting this week. The Chicago Bears have historically done very well against Rodgers, and earlier this season was the first time the Packers scored 21 or more points against the Bears since Rodgers took over the starting job. Add in a banged up offensive line that will be without Bryan Bulaga, and you have the potential for another average performance from Rodgers. 

5. Matthew Stafford, Detroit Lions

After a cold stretch while battling a finger injury on his throwing hand, Stafford has now caught fire. He's thrown for six touchdowns and zero interceptions over the last two games. The Chargers are solid against the pass, but the Lions will throw it enough for Stafford to have another big game stats-wise.