Week 13 NFL QB Power Rankings: Green Bay Packers’ Aaron Rodgers remains in top spot
Nov 30, 2014; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (12) throws a pass during the first half against the New England Patriots at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports
Week 13 featured some terrific quarterback play: Ryan Fitzpatrick is the latest QB to throw for six touchdowns in a game, and Andrew Luck is the first 4,000 yard quarterback this season. Here are your Week 13 QB power rankings.
(Disclaimer: these QB power rankings are based on how well each quarterback has played so far this season, not just the most recent week. Each player’s improvement or regression from the previous week is indicated.)
1. Aaron Rodgers, Green Bay Packers (± 0)
Rodgers outplayed Tom Brady in what could turn out to be a game significant for both the Packers and Patriots. It helped that Rodgers had all day to throw on more than one occasion, but some of the throws he made were frankly insane. I actually went back and watched each of Rodgers’ three picks this year: all of them hit his receiver directly in the hands, bounced out, and were intercepted. Now he’s had some dropped picks as well, but he theoretically could have no picks this year (and 30 touchdowns) if his receivers and tight ends had slightly better hands (not saying that they don’t already).
2. Peyton Manning, Denver Broncos (± 0)
On a relatively quiet night stats-wise (only 179 yards with 5.27 yards per attempt), Manning was efficient and effective. Denver relied heavily on C.J. Andersen, so the fact that Manning didn’t have another four-touchdown performance is irrelevant to Denver’s game against Kansas City.
3. Andrew Luck, Indianapolis Colts (± 0)
Luck had one of his best performances on Sunday. Although it was against Washington’s defense, and receivers (and tight ends, which Washington defensive coordinator Jim Haslett refuses to cover) were wide open for much of the game, Luck still had an impressive performance. On pace for a 5,000 yard season, Luck is easily a top five MVP candidate.
4. Drew Brees, New Orleans Saints (+1)
For what seems like the first time all season, fans saw what they had been accustomed to seeing from Drew Brees – five touchdowns and a victory over a tough team. While I don’t think the Saints’ victory was surprising (I actually picked them to win), the Saints’ victory was impressive and I think they have a clear advantage over Atlanta in the NFC South.
5. Tony Romo, Dallas Cowboys (-1)
That Thanksgiving performance is down there with the Week 1 three-interception game against San Francisco. Simply a poor showing from Romo and the Cowboys. With that said, Romo’s season in general has been stellar, so he stays in the top five.
6. Tom Brady, New England Patriots (± 0)
Although Brady was outplayed by Aaron Rodgers, he still had an above-average game in frigid Green Bay. Even with that said, Brady will have to play better for the Patriots to win the division, much less clinch a first round bye. If the Patriots lose to the Chargers and the Dolphins win out, Miami will win the division.
7. Russell Wilson, Seattle Seahawks (+1)
Impressive game from Wilson on Thanksgiving. Although it appeared as if he was only running circles around San Francisco’s defense, he kept his eyes down the field and hit wide open receivers (see: 63 yard pass to Tony Moeaki).
8. Ryan Tannehill, Miami Dolphins (-1)
Tannehill got lucky on multiple throws Monday night – there were some inaccurate passes that should’ve been picked easily. Other than some ill-advised throws, he was good for much of the game. The pass that was actually intercepted wasn’t his fault – it was a low throw, but Tannehill was pressured and Lamar Miller should’ve caught it.