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NFL Quarterback Power Rankings 2016: The King Has Returned
NFL Quarterback Power Rankings after Week 5 of the 2016 season
NFL Week 5 is in the books. But if I was writing a book about the Cleveland Browns, even I couldn’t predict the dumpster fire they have been this season. The joke throughout the NFL Quarterback Power Rankings piece this season has been about me playing quarterback for them. However, after they have now had five players take a snap for them because of injuries, I am no longer offering my services. Their loss.
Cleveland isn’t the only team having issues keeping their quarterbacks healthy. Week 5 featured four new quarterbacks to the power rankings and, surprisingly, one of them wasn’t on the Browns.
This week, four teams were on their bye (Jacksonville Jaguars, Kansas City Chiefs, New Orleans Saints, and Seattle Seahawks). Remember, a quarterback on a bye does not move up or down in the power rankings.
With the four teams on a bye, that meant only 28 teams played. There were not ties, so 14 quarterbacks won, and 14 quarterbacks lost. Those 28 starting quarterbacks combined for 6,817 yards, 46 touchdowns, 17 interceptions, and were sacked 70 times.
It was an impressive week by the 28 signal callers, only throwing for 29 less yards than Week 4, but with two less quarterbacks. They also only threw one less touchdown and four less interceptions. However, just like last week, the quarterbacks were sacked one more time than the week before.
Before we get to Week 6, let’s see which quarterbacks have risen or fallen in the power rankings after Week 5.
Oct 6, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers quarterback Blaine Gabbert (2) after an Arizona Cardinals safety during the fourth quarter at Levi
Blaine Gabbert
QB, San Francisco 49ers
Previous Rank: 31 (-1)
Week 5 Statistics: 18-31 (58.1%), 162 yards, 1 TD, 2 INTs
Week 5 Final Score: 21-33 (L)
Season Statistics: 87-150 (58%), 890 yards, 5 TDs, 6 INTs
Season Record: 1-4
The end of the Blaine Gabbert era in San Francisco looks to be here. Sadly enough for Gabbert, his time as an NFL starter will end with him sitting as the worst quarterback in the NFL through five weeks of the 2016 season.
Why is the end here for Gabbert? The 49ers have announced they will start Colin Kaepernick instead. Why are the 49ers doing this? Gabbert has been terrible.
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If it wasn’t for his team dominating the Rams in Week 1, and having another quarterback throw six interceptions in one game, Gabbert could have been the No. 32 ranked quarterback the entire season.
He has beeb labeled a bust after he failed in Jacksonville, but some suggested he could shed that label in San Francisco. Well, it is official: Gabbert is a bust (for all the people who still wont admit it).
Be real, he just isn’t a starting quarterback in the NFL. He will end his days of starting by throwing for six interceptions and only five touchdowns. He is currently ranked No. 28 in the NFL for passing yards, with 890.
It hurts to say this, but I will miss ranking Gabbert in the power rankings. It was always fun watching his poor throws and inability to command the game. Best of luck to him and lets see what Kaepernick can do in Week 6.
Oct 9, 2016; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Miami Dolphins quarterback Ryan Tannehill (17) walks back to the sideline during the second half Tennessee Titans at Hard Rock Stadium. Titans won 30-17. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports
Ryan Tannehill
QB, Miami Dolphins
Previous Rank: 29 (-2)
Week 5 Statistics: 12-18 (66.7%), 191 yards, 0 TDs, 2 INTs
Week 5 Final Score: 17-30 (L)
Season Statistics: 100-156 (64.1%), 1,272 yards, 6 TDs, 7 INTs
Season Record: 1-4
This is going to come off strong, but the truth hurts. Ryan Tannehill is not a starting quarterback in the NFL. He has never shown the elite ability needed to navigate an offense and the Miami Dolphins need to cut ties with him this offseason.
Honestly, if I was the Dolphins, I would bench him now. He is not giving his team a chance to win the game and has played terrible football. Do not let Tannehill be the player who gets a ton of excuses and passes on his poor play. I do not want to hear about his poor offensive line. I want to hear about his terrible accuracy this season and poor decision making.
He once again did not do enough for his team to win the game, and I would argue he is the reason they lost. He threw two interceptions and no touchdowns. To make it worse, he did not even throw for 200 yards, ending the day with only 191.
Tannehill will be at the bottom of these power rankings all season, unless the Dolphins decide to pull the plug before it ends. They need to pull the plug before it ends. Football in Miami has been horrible and it is time to try and find a real franchise quarterback.
Oct 9, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Buffalo Bills defensive end Adolphus Washington (92) closes in on Los Angeles Rams quarterback Case Keenum (17) for a 2nd quarter sack at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports
Case Keenum
QB, Los Angeles Rams
Previous Rank: 26 (-4)
Week 5 Statistics: 21-31 (67.7%), 271 yards, 0 TDs, 2 INTs
Week 5 Final Score: 19-30 (L)
Season Statistics: 88-152 (57.9%), 1,096 yards, 4 TDs, 5 INTs
Season Record: 3-2
Just like with Tannehill, enough is enough for the Los Angeles Rams. There isn’t a person in the world that could convince me Case Keenum is a better option than the first overall pick in the 2016 NFL Draft, Jared Goff.
Talking to Rams fans, I can say that by hearing them talk that the entire fanbase feels the same way. It has just been embarrassing to watch him throw at times and that was highlighted on Sunday when he threw another interception for a touchdown, giving him two on the year. The pass was terribly placed and showcased Keenum’s poor arm strength.
If you haven’t seen the play, it just highlights the face that Keenum shouldn’t be under center for the Rams.
They have won three games this season and for a good reason. Their defense is legit. The only thing holding this team back is having an elite quarterback. We all know Keenum will never be elite, so why in the world are the Rams not playing Goff. There is no way he can be as bad as Keenum. And if he is, the Rams are better off letting him fail than not playing him at all.
Keenum is obviously one of the worst starting quarterbacks in football and his ranking will reflect that all season.
Jeff Fisher, I am begging you: LET THE KID PLAY!
Oct 6, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; Arizona Cardinals quarterback Drew Stanton (5) prepares to take the snap from center A.Q. Shipley (53) against the San Francisco 49ers during a NFL game at Levi
Drew Stanton
QB, Arizona Cardinals
Previous Rank: NR
Week 5 Statistics: 11-28 (39.3%), 124 yards, 2 TDs, 0 INTs
Week 5 Final Score: 33-21 (W)
Season Statistics: 16-43 (37.2%), 172 yards, 2 TDs, 2 INTs
Season Record: 1-0
There is a reason that Drew Stanton is making his debut on the quarterback power rankings in Week 5. It may be the fact that the Arizona Cardinals starting quarterback Carson Palmer is injured. But it’s also the fact that Stanton isn’t good. He does not have the skill to start in the NFL, but here he is sitting at No. 29.
Stanton got the nod on Thursday Night Football, a matchup between him and our No. 32 ranked quarterback Gabbert. Talk about a quarterback battle!
Well, the game was just as bad as you’d expect from the two signal-callers. Stanton did throw two touchdowns, but he only completed 39.3 percent of his passes. Sadly, that actually increase his completion percentage this season. Yikes.
He only threw for 124 yards on the entire game, though he did avoid throwing an interception. His completion percentage says it all. He was inaccurate the entire game and struggling to find his open target.
Hopefully Palmer is feeling better, because it will be hard to watch another game managed by Stanton in 2015. If he does, expect him to drop in the rankings.
Oct 10, 2016; Charlotte, NC, USA; Carolina Panthers quarterback Derek Anderson (3) passes before the game at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports
Derek Anderson
QB, Carolina Panthers
Previous Rank: NR
Week 5 Statistics: 18-28 (64.3%), 278 yards, 0 TDs, 2 INTs
Week 5 Final Score: 14-17 (L)
Season Statistics: 36-52 (69.2%), 453 yards, 2 TDs, 4 INTs
Season Record: 0-1
Just like Stanton, Carolina Panthers quarterback Derek Anderson found his way onto the quarterback power rankings in Week 5. It was for the same reason, and injury to the Panthers starting quarterback Cam Newton. It was also the same result as Stanton, poor play.
Coming into the game, Anderson has a career record of 20-25 as a starting quarterback in the NFL. He almost has thrown for more interceptions than touchdowns in his career (60-59). Moral of the story, you do not want Anderson taking snaps for your football team, especially when you need a win.
The Panthers lost one game last season and they have only won one game in 2016. Anderson’s terrible game led to another loss, putting them at 1-4. It’s a scary place to be, but the Panthers need to hope Newton can go back to his MVP form if they want to save their season. Hopefully he is healthy and back next week, because I do not want to talk about Anderson and how he threw two interceptions and no touchdowns in a loss.
Oct 9, 2016; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; New York Jets quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick (14) throws a pass against the Pittsburgh Steelers during the second half of their game at Heinz Field. The Steelers won, 31-13. Mandatory Credit: Jason Bridge-USA TODAY Sports
Ryan Fitzpatrick
QB, New York Jets
Previous Rank: 32 (+5)
Week 5 Statistics: 25-38 (65.8%), 255 yards, 1 TD, 0 INTs
Week 5 Final Score: 13-31
Season Statistics: 111-192 (57.8%), 1,267 yards, 5 TDs, 10 INTs
Season Record: 1-4
HE DID IT! New York Jets quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick did not throw an interception! I mean, he put together one of the worst two-game performances I have ever seen when he there for nine total interceptions. Six were in one week, leaving three for the other. But I was surprised to see him protect the football in Week 5.
The only problem was the fact he did not play well enough for his team to win the game. He threw for 255 yards, but only one touchdown while his team trailed for most of the game. The Jets did everything they could to get him back this offseason, but it is looking like that was the wrong move. Fitzpatrick had a career year in 2015 and he is back to reality in 2016.
He isn’t a guy that you try to get aggressively, even if his wide receivers really wanted him. Luckily for him, the guys under him have stunk it up so bad he actually moved up in the rankings with a lousy performance. These bottom-feeder quarterbacks like Fitzpatrick get hard to rank, so maybe he can somehow start to be the 2015 Fitzpatrick and move up.
At 1-4 and the division already out of reach now that Brady is back, I say he doesn’t find that form. I say it is time for the Jets to go to one of their younger guys. Well, not Christian Hackenberg, because he will most definitely end the week ranked as the No. 32 guy.
Oct 9, 2016; Green Bay, WI, USA; New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) throws a pass in the second quarter during the game against the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports
Eli Manning
QB, New York Giants
Previous Rank: 25 (-1)
Week 5 Statistics: 18-35 (51.4%), 199 yards, 1 TD, 0 INTs
Week 5 Final Score: 16-23 (L)
Season Statistics: 119-187 (63.6%), 1,385 yards, 5 TDs, 4 INTs
Season Record: 2-3
You can’t spell ‘worst team in the NFC East through five weeks’ without Eli! Okay, you can, but you get the poor joke. ELIte they say, but more like disappointing. The New York Giants haven’t had the year many felt they could have.
For starters, they went out and spent a ton of money on a defense. Bad idea. It hasn’t worked out for many over the years and it is looking like that has been the case again. To make it worse, Giants fans depend on Eli Manning to pay well and win football games, but it seems he is on a career decline in 2016.
I have always been a fan of Manning, but it is hard to cheer him on with the poor play he has had the season. Through five weeks the only has five touchdowns. For those who struggle with simple math, that means he is on pace for 16 touchdown passes this season. He has also thrown four interceptions, so he just hasn’t been great.
However, the biggest concern for me is his accuracy. Manning has missed a ton of easy throws so far in 2016 and that continued in Week 5. He only completed 51.4 percent of his passes, highlighting the fact that Manning hasn’t been doing too hot in 2016.
If he doesn’t turn it around and that store bought defense keeps playing poorly, the Giants may be able to draft Manning’s replacement, early.
Oct 9, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos quarterback Paxton Lynch (12) passes the ball in the first half against the Atlanta Falcons at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports
Paxton Lynch
QB, Denver Broncos
Previous Rank: NR
Week 5 Statistics: 23-35 (65.7%), 223 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT
Week 5 Final Score: 16-23 (L)
Season Statistics: 37-59 (62.7%), 393 yards, 2 TDs, 1 INT
Season Record: 0-1
With all of the rookie quarterback hyde going around, the underachieving play of first round pick Paxton Lynch has gone under the rug. In fairness, the rookies have been so solid this year that expectations are high for the 2016 rookie class quarterbacks.
Lynch just hasn’t been great in the time that we have seen him, but that is expected considering he is a rookie. In his first NFL start, Lynch completed 65.7 percent of his passes for 223 yards and one touchdown. He did throw an interception as well, the first of his career. The touchdown pass was his second because he came in for the injured Trevor Siemian.
I think the most disappointing aspect of Lynch’s game was the fact he didn’t show the Denver Broncos that he is the better option to play quarterback the rest of the season. Outside of one big game, Siemian has been average and the job was Lynch’s to win.
He also lost the Broncos their first game of the season, so that won’t help him in any way when they decide who will start next week. My guess is that if Siemian is healthy, he will start. So, it was nice seeing you Mr. Lynch, but this will most likely be the last time baring any more injuries for Siemian.
Oct 9, 2016; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Houston Texans quarterback Brock Osweiler (17) against the Minnesota Vikings at U.S. Bank Stadium. The Vikings defeated the Texans 31-13. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports
Brock Osweiler
QB, Houston Texans
Previous Rank: 23 (-1)
Week 5 Statistics: 19-42 (45.2%), 184 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT
Week 5 Final Score: 13-31 (L)
Season Statistics: 109-188 (58%), 1,133 yards, 6 TDs, 7 INTs
Season Record: 3-2
It is rare to find a franchise quarterback through free agency. I guess you could say the Houston Texans are experiencing this through trial by fire. Yes, they needed someone to play quarterback for them win 2016, but no they did not need to break the bank for Brock Osweiler.
Osweiler, a defending Super Bowl champion (that joke never gets old), started seven games for the Denver Broncos last season. He won five of those seven games, but did not put out performances that scream franchise quarterback, hence why the Broncos let him walk after the season.
Osweiler must have stole the show when he met with the Texans because they offered him a ridiculously high deal that he has yet to earn. I get it; you expect him to play well enough to earn it, but at the same time don’t fool yourselves. Sometimes this sport is easier to dissect than you think and you just need to look at the facts. But Texans are instead facing those facts.
Osweiler continues to struggle and look like a free agent bust. He only completed 45.2 percent of his passes this week while only throwing for 184 yards. He had one touchdown, but threw another interception. He now has only six touchdowns through five weeks, but seven interceptions. He needs to improve if the Texans want to be a real team and if he doesn’t want to keep dropping in the rankings.
Oct 9, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Cody Kessler (6) lays on the ground with an injury after a hit against the New England Patriots during the first quarter at FirstEnergy Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott R. Galvin-USA TODAY Sports
Cody Kessler
QB, Cleveland Browns
Previous Rank: 27 (+4)
Week 5 Statistics: 5-8 (62.5%), 62 yards, 1 TD, 0 INTs
Week 5 Final Score: 13-33 (L)
Season Statistics: 54-81 (66.7 %), 529 yards, 2 TDs, 1 INT
Season Record: 0-3
Like I said earlier, I am glad the Browns never called me to play quarterback. I mean, look at that picture. I have a child and a Mrs. back home, I can’t be getting injured! The Browns have been blessed with bad luck and it has been nothing short of terrible luck this season. They are still winless, the only team in the league, and they have had five different quarterbacks take a snap for them.
Cody Kessler at least started three games in a row, but that is now in jeopardy because of his injury on Sunday. Time will tell if he gets back in there, but does he even want to? The Browns have been so bad that whoever is playing quarterback should understand the liability that comes with it.
Their first two quarterbacks were injured and Kessler was too. Three total quarterback injuries through five weeks. That is unheard of! Even with the injury, Kessler had a solid stat line and all the quarterbacks below him are so bad this season, so I thought I’d show Cleveland some love and move him up four spots.
Could we see another Brown under center in Week 6? We will find out! Just know he will be at the bottom of the power rankings.
Marcus Mariota
QB, Tennessee Titans
Previous Rank: 28 (+6)
Week 5 Statistics: 20-29 (69%), 163 yards, 3 TDs, 0 INTs
Week 5 Final Score: 30-17 (W)
Season Statistics: 100-165 (60.6%), 1,088 yards, 7 TDs, 5 INTs
Season Record: 2-3
Finally! Finally! Finally! It has been so frustrating to watch Tennessee Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota play poorly this season. The big reason being that he has real talent. They selected him No. 2 overall for a reason in the 2015 NFL Draft, but it hasn’t all added up for him so far in the NFL.
Now, he did only throw for 163 yards on the day, which is pretty terrible in today’s NFL, but the three touchdowns make me smile. He also added rushing score and 60 yards, so 223 yards and four total touchdowns on the day is fantastic.
Until this point, Mariota hasn’t put it together in a game, but I am glad to see he finally has. It was the first game this season he did not throw an interception as well, so hats off to him for finally playing well.
He has been a bottom feeder in the power rankings, though he will keep climbing if he can keep this up. He has too much talent to be ranked so low, but only he controls the ranking so he needs to play better. Maybe this was the game that will turn it all around for him, or maybe it was just the outlier of the season. Time will tell.
Oct 10, 2016; Charlotte, NC, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Jameis Winston (3) throws the ball during the second quarter against the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports
Jameis Winston
QB, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Previous Rank: 20 (-1)
Week 5 Statistics: 18-30 (60%), 219 yards, 1 TD, 0 INTs
Week 5 Final Score: 17-14 (W)
Season Statistics: 121-207 (58.5%), 1,327 yards, 9 TDs, 8 INTs
Season Record: 2-3
The pick before Mariota in the 2015 Nfl Draft was the No. 1 overall pick, quarterback Jameis Winston. Unlike Mariota, Winston has had some awesome games the season, but the big problem is he has had some really bad ones too.
In Week 1, he threw for four touchdowns and one interception, but followed that up in Week 2 with one touchdown and four interceptions. It is that hot and cold play that has led to Winston falling in the power rankings. Consistency is key for the quarterback position and he needs to find it if the Buccaneers are going to win more football games.
He did get the win in Week 5, but it was one of those cold games for him. He only threw for one touchdown and 219 yards, but luckily he did not throw an interception. If he can go turnover free, the Buccaneers have a chance to win. And just like Mariota, he has a ton of talent—he just needs to make sure he shows that weekly.
His 58.5 completion percentage isn’t going to get it done in this league, so he needs to improve that and show he can be more consistent. He has been up and down in the rankings, but if he can’t do that he will continue to be down in them.
Oct 9, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Buffalo Bills quarterback Tyrod Taylor (5) throws a pass against the Los Angeles Rams in the first half during the NFL game at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Sports
Tyrod Taylor
QB, Buffalo Bills
Previous Rank: 19 (-1)
Week 5 Statistics: 12-23 (52.2%), 124 yards, 2 TDs, 0 INTs
Week 5 Final Score: 30-19 (W)
Season Statistics: 86-139 (61.9%), 897 yards, 6 TDs, 2 INTs
Season Record: 3-2
After an 0-2 start, it was panic time for the Buffalo Bills. Or maybe the fans and media members thought wrong. This team looked to be a dumpster fire already through two weeks, but now they are 3-2 and on a three game winning streak.
Their head coach Rex Ryan is one of the best motivators in the sport and he will always rally with his team. Matching him with an elite running back like LeSean McCoy has been impressive, but after the Bills fired their offensive coordinator, things have been booming.
Tyrod Taylor can be credited for a large portion of their win on Sunday. His late touchdown pass was so impressive. He waited until the last possible second before he zipped a nice pass in there for a touchdown. To make that better, his first of the game was even better. He escaped pressure and made a play on his own to find his receiver in the end zone.
Taylor needs to play well if the Bills are going to keep winning, but throwing for two touchdowns and no interceptions is the way to go. His defense is solid, so he just needs to be smart with the football.
He falls one spot this week, mainly because other quarterbacks just play better than him, but if he can follow this performance up with another solid one, he will definitely move up.
Oct 9, 2016; Arlington, TX, USA; Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Andy Dalton (14) in the pocket to pass in the game against the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium. Dallas won 28-14. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports
Andy Dalton
QB, Cincinnati Bengals
Previous Rank: 14 (-5)
Week 5 Statistics: 29-41 (70.7%), 269 yards, 2 TDs, 0 INTs
Week 5 Final Score: 14-28 (L)
Season Statistics: 126-187 (67.4%), 1,503 yards, 5 TDs, 2 INTs
Season Record: 2-3
If you just looked at Andy Dalton’s stat line from his game on Sunday, you would think he played well. That is why I always tell people stats do not tell the story!
Yeah, Dalton threw for 269 yards and two touchdowns. However, those two touchdowns came when the game was already out of hand. Why is that important? Dalton should never let it get out of hand and he should always keep his team in the game. Those two touchdowns were needed in the first half because their defense was getting gashed.
He has had a solid season so far, throwing for 1,503 yards and five touchdowns. However, he needs to do more. Only throwing for five touchdowns has hurt his team and he needs to make sure he gets his team into the end zone.
They are currently 2-3, with the Steelers looking like the front-runners. If Dalton can’t start putting more points on the board, their season could be over quickly. I mean, he does have A.J. Green. So he should somehow find a way to get him the ball more.
Oct 2, 2016; London, United Kingdom; Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Blake Bortles (5) prepares to take the snap from center Brandon Linder (65) during game 15 of the NFL International Series at Wembley Stadium. The Jaguars defeated the Colts 30-27. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Blake Bortles
QB, Jacksonville Jaguars
Previous Rank: 18 (BYE WEEK)
Week 5 Statistics: BYE WEEK
Week 5 Final Score: BYE WEEK
Season Statistics: 98-160 (61.3%), 1,050 yards, 7 TDs, 6 INTs
Season Record: 1-3
For two straight weeks, Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Blake Bortles didn’t throw an interception! I know, this week they were on a bye, but it was needed. After starting 1-3, the Jaguars needed to regroup. They have been terrible the season and are easily one of the most disappointing teams in the league.
If the team has been disappointing, it is most likely that the quarterback has been too. And that is exactly the case for the Jaguars. Many fans felt that this was going to be a big season for Bortles, but he has played poorly. In four games, he has thrown six interceptions. He has throw seven touchdowns, but Bortles is becoming known for his picks more than his scores.
Bortles needs to take care of the football more if the Jaguars have any shot of winning more games this season. He also needs to take care of it because if he continues to throw picks, I won’t be the only one who thinks poorly of his play. The Jaguars are a young football team and they need a leader, not someone who gives the ball to the other team.
Just like Dalton, Bortles has an elite wide receiver, Allen Robinson. He needs to find a way to get him the ball early and often in their Week 6 game and get a much-needed win.
Oct 9, 2016; Baltimore, MD, USA; Baltimore Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco (5) reacts on the sideline during the game against the Washington Redskins at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mitch Stringer-USA TODAY Sports
Joe Flacco
QB, Baltimore Ravens
Previous Rank: 13 (-4)
Week 5 Statistics: 30-46 (65.2%), 210 yards, 1 TD, 0 INTs
Week 5 Final Score: 10-16 (L)
Season Statistics: 138-216 (63.9%), 1,282 yards, 5 TDs, 4 INTs
Season Record: 3-2
The NFL is funny. After three weeks of NFL play, the Baltimore Ravens were undefeated and had many people asking if they were for real. The reviews were mixed, but a lot of the talk came back to their quarterback, Joe Flacco.
Flacco is returning from a torn ACL last season and got his team off to a solid start. However, he hasn’t been playing well the last three games combined. It looked liked it was just rust from the surgery, but after five weeks he should be doing better.
For the second week in a row, Flacco only threw for one touchdown and lost. He is the leader of their team and he needs to make sure he gets his team points. One touchdown a game doesn’t cut it in this league and he is on pace to only throw 16 touchdowns the season.
If the Ravens are going to get back into the win column, it is going to be behind the arm of their Super Bowl winning quarterback. If Flacco can start to turn it on, the Ravens have a good team and could begin to climb the ranks. They just need him to turn it on.
Oct 2, 2016; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Alex Smith (11) gestures at the line of scrimmage against the Pittsburgh Steelers during the first quarter at Heinz Field. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
Alex Smith
QB, Kansas City Chiefs
Previous Rank: 16 (BYE WEEK)
Week 5 Statistics: BYE WEEK
Week 5 Final Score: BYE WEEK
Season Statistics: 109-168 (64.9%), 1,073 yards, 5 TDs, 2 INTs
Season Record: 2-2
I am glad that, as the Kansas City Chiefs entered their bye week, their quarterback sat at No.16 on the power rankings. Why? Well, No. 16, middle of the pack, just seems like a perfect spot for Alex Smith.
Smith will never be the guy that you run your entire offense through. He is a game-manager, but a darn good one. He has embraced his role on this team, but more importantly, he has embraced his abilities. Smith never tries to be someone he isn’t and it shows by how he plays the game.
The Chiefs are going to need him to keep doing what he does best, managing the game. They are currently 2-2 heading into Week 6 and need to win. Their division is tough and if they start to fall behind they won’t be able to recover.
After five weeks, Smith only has five touchdowns, but the big factor is the two interceptions. If he can get some points on the board, while not turning the ball over, the Chiefs can win on any given Sunday.
Oct 9, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Brian Hoyer (2) calls a play at the line of scrimmage against the Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Thomas J. Russo-USA TODAY Sports
Brian Hoyer
QB, Chicago Bears
Previous Rank: 12 (-3)
Week 5 Statistics: 33-43 (76.7%), 397 yards, 2 TDs, 0 INTs
Week 5 Final Score: 23-29 (L)
Season Statistics: 100-140 (71.4%), 1,094 yards, 6 TDs, 0 INTs
Season Record: 1-2
This one hurt. Chicago Bears quarterback Brian Hoyer dropped three spots in the power rankings, even though he arguably play better than any quarterback the entire week. Why? He failed to lead his team to a victory with his two touchdown passes.
Before we get into his game, there is no doubt in my mind that he should remain the starter for the rest of the season. Jay Cutler has no business taking snaps for Chicago any longer because Hoyer has played some solid football in 2016. He has thrown for 1,094 yards in three starts and has managed to throw six touchdowns, but no interceptions. He is the best option for the Bears right now, but it would be nice if he could get some wins.
Hoyer threw for 397 yards on Sunday, completing 76.7 percent of his passes. Those two touchdowns were great, but his team needed one more to win the game. It is hard to move a player back when they play so well, but that is how the ranking played out this week.
It is worth noting that I have loved every minute of Hoyer’s resurgence in Chicago. Good for him and I hope he keeps it up, wins some games, and moves up in the rankings.
Oct 9, 2016; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford (9) looks to throw the ball against the Philadelphia Eagles during the second half of a game at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports
Matthew Stafford
QB, Detroit Lions
Previous Rank: 17 (+3)
Week 5 Statistics: 19-25 (76%), 180 yards, 3 TDs, 0 INTs
Week 5 Final Score: 24-23 (W)
Season Statistics: 123-181 (68%), 1,378 yards, 10 TDs, 4 INTs
Season Record: 2-3
After playing terribly in Week 4, Detroit Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford came to play in Week 5. He took on an Eagles defense that has yet to give up a passing touchdown and he torched them or three in the first half. The big aspect of that comment is the first half. If it wasn’t of this explosive first half, the Lions may have lost the game.
Stafford was shut down in the second half, but luckily the Eagles made a huge mistake late in the game lat allowed his team to get the victory.
But, it was still nice to see Stafford play well—even if it wasn’t for the full game. He has a ton of talent and it was front and center on Sunday. He as slinging the ball all over the field and making quick reads.
He sits at ninth in the NFL with his 1,378 passing yards and has thrown 10 touchdowns. He did have a bad fumble in the game, but not throwing an interception is huge. He helped lead his team to a victory, while playing well, so he definitely desired to climb the rankings.
October 9, 2016; Oakland, CA, USA; San Diego Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers (17) passes the football against the Oakland Raiders during the third quarter at Oakland Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
Philip Rivers
QB, San Diego Chargers
Previous Rank: 7 (-6)
Week 5 Statistics: 21-30 (70%), 359 yards, 4 TDs, 2 INTs
Week 5 Final Score: 31-34 (L)
Season Statistics: 117-172 (68%), 1,469 yards, 11 TDs, 3 INTs
Season Record: 1-4
Man, I feel bad for San Diego Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers. He must have walked under some ladders, while watching a black cat cross the street, all while breaking a mirror in the process. I mean, the guy has had arguably the worst luck in 2016.
For starters, he lost his top wide receiver Keenan Allen to a torn ACL. However, everyone said it would be okay because Allen was out last year too and their running back Danny Woodhead picked up the slack. Well, then they lost Woodhead to a torn ACL as well. That’s both of Rivers’ top passing targets—and we just finished Week 5.
Even with the bad luck, Rivers has still been able to throw for 1,469 yards, 11 touchdowns, and three interceptions. His first interception came to lose a game, which highlights more bad luck. However, the Chargers as a team have been losing late all season. This week was no different and it came down to a botched snap on a field goal. It just hasn’t been a year to remember for Rivers, though his stats suggest otherwise.
He has completed 68 percent of his passes and his tied for third with his 11 scores. His team is 1-4, but Rivers will remain a top 15 quarterback if he keeps his play up.
Oct 9, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Indianapolis Colts quarterback Andrew Luck (12) calls a play against the Chicago Bears at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Thomas J. Russo-USA TODAY Sports
Andrew Luck
QB, Indianapolis Colts
Previous Rank: 15 (+3)
Week 5 Statistics: 28-39 (71.8%), 322 yards, 2 TDs, 0 INTs
Week 5 Final Score: 29-23 (W)
Season Statistics: 131-205 (63.9%), 1,469 yards, 10 TDs, 3 INTs
Season Record: 2-3
I have a saying that I like to go by when looking at quarterbacks: great quarterbacks make bad teams better. It is simple. If the team stinks, but the quarterback is great, they will always have a chance to win.
Well, the Indianapolis Colts stink, but their quarterback Andrew Luck is great. Subsequently, they always have a chance. Luck has been clobbered all season, but he still stands tall in the pocket and tries to win the games. He has had little to no help so far this season, so he has been doing it mostly on his own.
The Colts defense is putrid, which makes it hard for any quarterback to win in this league. Some fans are beginning to thing Luck is a bit overrated, but put him on the Dallas Cowboys or the Minnesota Vikings and I guarantee they win a Super Bowl.
He has all the talent in the world, highlighted by his 322 yards and two touchdown game in Week 5. The Colts only won their second game of the season, but Luck has thrown for 1,469 yards (fourth in the NFL), 10 touchdowns (fourth in the NFL), and three interceptions this season. Just appreciate his good play at the quarterback position and his climb back up the power rankings.
Oct 2, 2016; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson (3) looks to pass in the third quarter against the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports
Russell Wilson
QB, Seattle Seahawks
Previous Rank: 11 (BYE WEEK)
Week 5 Statistics: BYE WEEK
Week 5 Final Score: BYE WEEK
Season Statistics: 87-133 (65.4%), 1,064 yards, 5 TDs, 1 INT
Season Record: 3-1
I have been very critical of Russell Wilson as a quarterback. A lot of people get caught up in hype, but I will always live by the film instead and, to me, it did not add up with him. Yeah he was winning football games and looked flashy, but there were times he was missing throws that a high schooler could make.
He made a huge leap in 2015, which led to some of his fans already arguing he is better than Tom Brady. But I wanted to see if he had peaked in 2015 or if there was more to come in 2016. Through five weeks of the NFL season and four games for Wilson, I still can’t tell. He has had some terrible games this season, but he has also had some good ones.
His team still has won, even if he hasn’t played well at times. That just shows the roster around him is solid, though. However, Wilson played lights out in Week 4, so we will see how he comes back in Week 6. Look for him to come off of the bye week ready to go and feeling a bit more healthy than he has.
Oct 9, 2016; Baltimore, MD, USA; Washington Redskins quarterback Kirk Cousins (8) throws during the second quarter against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports
Kirk Cousins
QB, Washington Redskins
Previous Rank: 8 (-2)
Week 5 Statistics: 29-41 (70.7%), 260 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT
Week 5 Final Score: 16-10 (W)
Season Statistics: 129-192 (67.2%), 1,432 yards, 7 TDs, 5 INTs
Season Record: 3-2
Captain Kirk Cousins was back at it on Sunday. It wasn’t the impressive performance I was looking for, but I was still drinking the Kirk Cousins Kool-Aid in Week 5.
Ever since his famous “YOU LIKE THAT” video, many people have wanted to see Cousins fail. It is just the nature of the world we live in today. Mainly people want him to fail so they can use his statement back at him, which makes no sense, but yeah.
Regardless of your opinion on Cousins, I am happy to see he has started to really turn the Washington Redskins season around. After an 0-2 start, the season was written off in Washington. People were already writing Cousins off for remaining with the team after this season.
The best way to shut people up is to win football games and the Redskins have now won three straight. In the three game winning streak, Cousins has thrown for six touchdowns and only two interceptions. In their first two losses, Cousins threw for a c combined three interceptions.
Obviously, his play is linked to how well the Redskins will do. So even though he did not play a crazy game in Week 5; he still led his team to a victory.
Oct 9, 2016; Arlington, TX, USA; Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) signals at the line of scrimmage against Cincinnati Bengals at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports
Dak Prescott
QB, Dallas Cowboys
Previous Rank: 10 (+1)
Week 5 Statistics: 18-24 (75%), 227 yards, 1 TD, 0 INTs
Week 5 Final Score: 28-14 (W)
Season Statistics: 107-155 (69%), 1,239 yards, 4 TDs, 0 INT’s
Season Record: 4-1
Dak Attack! Or whatever you want to call this frenzy of the Dallas Cowboys rookie quarterback Dak Prescott. Regardless of the name, it is for real. Prescott once again played a safe and efficient football game on Sunday.
The Cowboys took on the Cincinnati Bengals and came out of the gates with dominant, in-your-face football. Prescott has been great. And not taking away from him, but he isn’t even the best rookie on his team. Their running back, Ezekiel Elliott, has been spectacular running the football. He has now ran for over 130 yards in three straight weeks and leads the NFL in rushing. His stardom has helped Prescott thrive in an offense that has seen him make a ton of play action throws.
Elliott’s success makes defense stack the box and gives Prescott the ability to pick them apart. And that is exactly what he has been doing. Only a handful of times I could say he has made the wrong throw, but other than that, he has been a great decision-maker.
Prescott sits comfortably inside the top 10, but I would like to see him take a game over with his arm if Elliott can’t get going. Until then, he won’t be a top five quarterback. I also believe that we will still see Tony Romo this season. I believe he gives the Cowboys the best chance to win, but we will see. The media frenzy over Prescott may not allow Jerry Jones to make the move.
Oct 9, 2016; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings quarterback Sam Bradford (8) passes against the Houston Texans in the second quarter at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-USA TODAY Sports
Sam Bradford
QB, Minnesota Vikings
Previous Rank: 10 (+2)
Week 5 Statistics: 22-30 (73.3%), 271 yards, 2 TDs, 0 INTs
Week 5 Final Score: 31-13 (W)
Season Statistics: 88-125 (70.4%), 990 yards, 6 TDs, 0 INTs
Season Record: 4-0
I am one of the biggest critics of Minnesota Vikings quarterback Sam Bradford. I have been since he entered the league because, well, I just never thought he was good enough. I always believed he doesn’t have elite traits to take over football games and be the reason his team has won.
He was supposed to start for the Eagles this season and I predicted that he would miss the playoffs again (he has never made them in his career). Then, the Eagles dealt him to the Vikings and I thought Minnesota made a terrible decision.
Luckily for them, through five weeks (four that Bradford has played in), it has worked out tremendously. Now, I wouldn’t go as far to say that Bradford is the reason they are winning. Their defense has been amazing and is arguably the best in football right now. However, Bradford has played well enough to help them win. More importantly, he hasn’t thrown the interceptions he has been so prone to do over the years.
By not tuning the ball over (six touchdowns to zero interceptions), the Vikings found a perfect balance for their team. He needs a game where he just dominates to move up further. But for now, Bradford sits comfortably as a top 10 quarterback this season. Wow. I can’t believe I just said that.
Oct 9, 2016; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (12) reacts after throwing a touchdown pass to wide receiver Davante Adams (not pictured) in the second quarter during the game against the New York Giants at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports
Aaron Rodgers
QB, Green Bay Packers
Previous Rank: 2 (-5)
Week 5 Statistics: 23-45 (51.1%), 259 yards, 2 TDs, 2 INTs
Week 5 Final Score: 23-16 (W)
Season Statistics: 78-139 (56.1%), 876 yards, 9 TDs, 3 INTs
Season Record: 3-1
The Green Bay Packers haven’t been playing as well as they could. Yet after five weeks, they sit at 3-1. They had their bye in Week 4, so that helped them prepare of the New York Giants—but it also helped that their starting quarterback played well.
Aaron Rodgers is one of the best quarterbacks in the NFL, but 2016 has been an awkward year for him. After four games, he’s only averaging 219 yards passing per contest. He also has thrown for nine touchdowns this season, but threw for four scores in one outing, which inflated his actual numbers. It isn’t that he has played bad, but it has been different.
Even in their win over the Giants, the Packers haven’t been able to protect Rodgers enough for him to be the real Rodgers. He only completed 51.1 percent of his passes and has only completed 56.1 percent of his passes on the entire season. He also threw two interceptions in the game, which luckily did not come back to bit the Packers in the butt.
He has had a good year, but not the type of year so far that screams he is a top five quarterback. However, if he can throw four touchdowns in a game again, you’ll see him ranked higher.
Oct 2, 2016; San Diego, CA, USA; New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees (9) looks on during a pause in play during the fourth quarter in the game against the San Diego Chargers at Qualcomm Stadium. New Orleans won 35-34. Mandatory Credit: Orlando Ramirez-USA TODAY Sports
Drew Brees
QB, New Orleans Saints
Previous Rank: 6 (BYE WEEK)
Week 5 Statistics: BYE WEEK
Week 5 Final Score: BYE WEEK
Season Statistics: 116-176 (65.9%), 1,269 yards, 10 TDs, 3 INTs
Season Record: 1-3
As always, a quarterback in their bye week doesn’t move up or down. The New Orleans Saints were on their bye, so for their quarterback Drew Brees sits at No. 6 once again in the power rankings.
Oddly enough, even with the week off, Brees’ numbers are awesome. He is currently 13th in passing yards, but every quarterback ahead of him has played one extra game. He is also tied for fourth in touchdown passes, again with all of the other quarterbacks playing one more game than him.
The Saints have stunk this season, but it hasn’t been his fault. He has done everything he can to try and get them back on top. Brees will go down as one of the greatest to ever play the game and his 2016 campaign is helping that statement.
Look for him to come off of the bye and be ready to play. He is currently outside of the top five right now, but he is always a player with the talent to be among that quintet.
Oct 9, 2016; Detroit, MI, USA; Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Carson Wentz (11) scrambles out of the pocket during the first quarter of a game against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports
Carson Wentz
QB, Philadephia Eagles
Previous Rank: 1 (-4)
Week 5 Statistics: 25-33 (75.8%), 238 yards, 2 TDs, 1 INT
Week 5 Final Score: 23-24 (L)
Season Statistics: 91-135 (67.4%), 1,007 yards, 7 TDs 1 INT
Season Record: 3-1
One of my favorite aspects of football is overreactions to situations many fans do not understand. This week had a perfect one. The Philadelphia Eagles selected Carson Wentz second overall in the 2016 NFL Draft. He has played like a seasoned veteran all season and entered Week 5 with no turnovers.
In the Week 5 game, he played lights out again. His defense let him down in the first half, but Wentz made sure his team was still in the game. He played from behind for the first time in his career, but just like a to of other things so far in his career, it did not faze him. He led his team back and took the lead 23-21. The Eagles were looking to run the clock down as much as they could, but their running back Ryan Mathews fumbled and gave the ball back to the Lions within striking distance. The Lions kicked a field goal and Wentz had to try and lead his team down the field to win the game. On the very first play, he threw an interception, the first of his career.
The overreactions have been pouring in and the best one I saw was that Wentz isn’t clutch and the Eagles are doomed. Give me a break! Through his first four games, this was the most impressive. Yeah he threw a pick at the end of the game, but I loved the aggressive throw. I would even argue that his wide receiver caused the interception more than he did, but regardless, it always comes back to the quarterback.
Do not panic Eagles fans or overreact; Wentz is still the real deal and that’s even truer than before.
Oct 9, 2016; Oakland, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders quarterback Derek Carr (4) reacts after throwing a touchdown pass against the San Diego Chargers in the third quarter at Oakland Coliseum. The Raiders defeated the Chargers 34-31. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports
Derek Carr
QB, Oakland Raiders
Previous Rank: 3 (-1)
Week 5 Statistics: 25-40 (62.5%), 317 yards, 2 TDs, 1 INT
Week 5 Final Score: 34-31 (W)
Season Statistics: 129-193 (66.8%), 11 TDs, 2 INTs
Season Record: 4-1
Last weeks edition of the NFL quarterback power rankings featured the title, “Derek Carr is a star.” The Oakland Raiders decided to take Carr in the second round of the 2014 NFL Draft (36th overall). That selection is already turning out to be one of the best picks of the entire draft.
Not to pick on the Browns, but they could have selected Carr and would be set at quarterback. But instead it’s the Raiders who have seen their franchise transform behind they quarterback. When you think of the Raiders in modern day football, you do not think of winning. However, the Raiders are currently tied for first in their division at 4-1.
That all can be credited to the leader, captain, and quarterback, Derek Carr. When a player has the game slow down for them, it is a beautiful thing to watch. You can see it happening with Carr. He is in command at all times and has been making big time throws the entire season.
When the Raiders have needed him, Carr has risen to the occasion. He leads the NFL with two game-winning drives the season.
His Week 5 performance wasn’t his best, but it was solid. He threw for 317 yards and two touchdowns. He did throw an interception, but it was only his second of the season. If the Raiders continue to win, do not be surprised to see Carr get some love for MVP.
Oct 9, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) looks to pass the football in the second half against the Denver Broncos at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. The Falcons defeated the Broncos 23-16. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports
Matt Ryan
QB, Atlanta Falcons
Previous Rank: 4 (+1)
Week 5 Statistics: 15-28 (53.6%), 267 yards, 1 TD, 0 INTs
Week 5 Final Score: 23-16 (W)
Season Statistics: 116-168 (69%), 1,740 yards, 12 TDs, 2 INTs
Season Record: 4-1
If someone were to have told you in the preseason that, after five weeks of NFL action, Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan would be in the running for MVP, I’d have told you that person is crazy. But after five weeks of action, Ryan is every bit in the running for league MVP.
It has been unreal the ability Ryan has shown this season. He has always been a talented player, but his talent has never been at the top of league—until 2016. Ryan has been making big time throws all game and after his dominant performance in Week 4, he followed it up with a solid outing in Week 5.
Ryan threw for 267 yards and a touchdown. More importantly, though, he did not throw an interception. He only has two picks on the year, putting him on pace for six interceptions on the season.
The 2008 first-round pick is always on pace to throw for a career high 5,568 yards and 38 touchdowns. He has been outstanding the season, hence why he climbed another spot in the power rankings this week.
Oct 9, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) yells out at the line of scrimmage against the Cleveland Browns during the first quarter at FirstEnergy Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott R. Galvin-USA TODAY Sports
Tom Brady
QB, New England Patriots
Previous Rank: NR
Week 5 Statistics: 28-40 (70%), 406 yards, 3 TDs, 0 INTs
Week 5 Final Score: 33-13 (W)
Season Statistics: 28-40 (70%), 406 yards, 3 TDs, 0 INTs
Season Record: 1-0
These power rankings have no impact on players’ legacies. Regardless, it is worth noting that Tom Brady is the “Greatest of All-Time.” The GOAT was suspended for the first four games of the season because of some football deflation scandal that we heard nothing about.
However, Brady is finally back and able to play. In his first game back, we saw exactly why everyone says he is the greatest. He completed 70 percent of his passed for a Week 5 high of 406 yards and three touchdowns.
Playing in his first game back, many fans and media members wondered if there would be some rust for Brady. He showed that the older he gets, there is no rust. He just gets better with time. Brady is the true definition of fine wine, especially when you take into consideration that he is 39 years old.
The Patriots were able to go 3-1 without Brady, starting Jimmy Garoppolo and Jacoby Brissett in those four games. The sky is the limit for the Pats now that Brady is back and they are already 4-1. Look for Brady to keep this elite level of play all season as he is on a mission to show his unhappy feelings towards the NFL suspending him.
Also, just enjoy watching the greatest do his thing the rest of the season. Who knows how much longer we will get to watch, but just sit back and relax. We may never see a better quarterback play the game.
Oct 9, 2016; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) looks to pass against the New York Jets during the fourth quarter at Heinz Field. The Steelers won 31-13. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
Ben Roethlisberger
QB, Pittsburgh Steelers
Previous Rank: 5 (+4)
Week 5 Statistics: 34-47 (72.3%), 380 yards, 4 TDs, 0 INTs
Week 5 Final Score: 31-13 (W)
Season Statistics: 126-192 (65.6%), 1,496 yards, 15 TDs, 4 INT’
Season Record: 4-1
If I had to pick the league MVP today, I am going with Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger. I know, in Week 3 he had a bad game. But outside of that he has been balling out. Just in the past two weeks, Roethlisberger has thrown for nine touchdowns.
Nine touchdowns? Nine touchdowns. (Ferris Bueller’s Day Off voices)
For perspective, that is the same or more touchdowns than Cousins, Dalton, Manning, Winston, Flacco, Rodgers, Prescott, and Wentz (just to name a few) have on the entire season! That is ridiculous and Roethlisberger has been nothing short of special this season.
Outside of the rough loss to the Eagles in Week 3, he has his team sitting pretty at 4-1. They have the makings of a Super Bowl contender and Big Ben has been the catalyst.
Roethlisberger currently leads the NFL with 15 touchdown passes and sits at third with his 1,496 passing yards. If he keeps his current pace, he will end with 4,787 yards and 48 touchdowns. While Brady is back and showing his greatness, Roethlisberger is easily my No. 1 quarterback through five weeks of the NFL season.
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