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
As seen in the past few years, the team with the quarterback who heats up going into the playoffs wins the Super Bowl. Joe Flacco did so in 2012, Eli Manning in 2011, and Aaron Rodgers in 2010. With the Wild Card round of the NFL playoffs set to begin this Saturday, here are your playoff QB power rankings.
12. Ryan Lindley/Drew Stanton, Arizona Cardinals
The Cardinals aren’t sure if Stanton will be able to return for the playoffs. Even if he is, the team may decide to go with Lindley. No matter who’s starting at quarterback, Arizona will be at a disadvantage at quarterback, as either Lindley or Stanton will be the worst quarterback in the playoffs. Arizona will still have a good chance of beating Carolina this weekend, but it’s not clear how far Stanton or Lindley will lead the Cardinals.
Lindley and Stanton have been clear downgrades from Carson Palmer. Partly as a result of below mediocre play from both of them, Arizona has dropped four of six as the team backs into the playoffs as the fifth seed in the NFC. Hopefully for Cardinals fans, Stanton returns, as he’s been a bit better than Lindley.
11. Andy Dalton, Cincinnati Bengals
Most football fans know the story surrounding Dalton, especially when it comes to the playoffs – he’s 0-3 in the postseason, and his numbers aren’t impressive. This year, however, Dalton has arguably the best supporting cast out of the four Bengals’ squads of the last four years.
Dalton may not have to do much for the Bengals to win, but he’s been somewhat inaccurate as of late. Two weeks ago against Denver, a high pass was picked and returned for six, and A.J. Green got hurt on that play. On Sunday night against Pittsburgh, the Bengals ran the same play: Dalton’s pass sailed again, and it was picked. Needless to say, the Bengals’ signal-caller must be more accurate in the playoffs for his team to win.
Next: QBs 9 and 10