Why the Oakland Raiders are Making the NFL Playoffs in 2015

Dec 7, 2014; Oakland, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders quarterback Derek Carr (4) reacts after throwing a touchdown pass against the San Francisco 49ers in the second quarter at O.co Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports

“Derek Carr has been the Best QB in the AFC in 2015.”

There are two things that can be said about the Derek Carr and his play in 2015. He’s been the most impressive second year quarterback this year so far and he’s also been the best quarterback in the AFC West. Carr has as many touchdown passes (5) as Peyton Manning and Philip Rivers. However, he’s done it in less attempts and with less interceptions. Aside from just his stats, he’s looked better than both Manning and Rivers and he’s still missing some throws.

In the NFL it’s hard to win without a quarterback, but its evident that the Raiders finally have one they can build around. Manning isn’t the same guy this year and he may not even be the best Manning in 2015. Rivers has a high completion percentage but he is throwing too many interceptions and his team struggled to score against the Vikings.  Meanwhile, Alex Smith may be the 6th best quarterback in the Division.

It’s hard to deny that Carr’s play has been as good or better than the other quarterbacks in his division. It still may be early in the season but Carr’s showing he can win games with his arm and that’s a big reason the Raiders have a shot.

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