2011 NFL Fantasy Football Week 17: Quarterbacks (QB) Rankings and Projections

Cam Newton vs. Saints:

With Newton finishing the season just as strong as he started it, the debate amongst fantasy annalists and owners should be a fun one this offseason as we question whether Newton should be the top-ranked quarterback for the 2012 season. 

While Newton has a clear edge over his competition in the running game, my season-ending conclusion would be to rank him third or fourth next year, mainly because he’s only played at a top level for one year.

Just look at Michael Vick as a prime example of what the offseason can do for opposing teams; coming into next year, they'll focus on him as a primary player to stop. 

Other star fantasy quarterbacks like Aaron Rodgers, Drew Brees and Tom Brady have all established that they can put up top flight production and do it on a year-to-year basis.

That said, Newton does come in as my top quarterback this week; the Panthers are playing like a team primed to finish the season strong, and if they beat the Saints (assuming the Saints beat the Falcons Monday), they would ensure that the 49ers would get a first-round bye and not their division foe. 

Expect Newton to post at least 325 total yards of offense and three touchdowns in what should be a high-scoring game.

Please Note: ** means player could receive early rest on final week.

1	Cam Newton	vs. Saints
2	Drew Brees	Panthers
3	Tom Brady	Bills
4	Eli Manning	Cowboys
5	Michael Vick	Redskins
6	Philip Rivers	vs. Raiders
7	Matthew Stafford**	vs. Packers
8	Aaron Rodgers**	Lions
9	Matt Ryan**	Buccaneers
10	Tim Tebow	Chiefs
11	Tony Romo (I)	vs. Giants
12	Joe Webb	Bears
13	Kyle Orton	vs. Broncos
14	Ben Roethlisberger (I)	vs. Browns
15	Carson Palmer	Chargers
16	Mark Sanchez	vs. Dolphins
17	John Skelton	Seahawks
18	Rex Grossman	vs. Eagles
19	Joe Flacco	Bears
20	Andy Dalton	Ravens

More WK 17 Rankings – RB | WR | TE | K/D | Waivers |