Championship Week 16 Top Ten Projected Quarterbacks.
1. CAM NEWTON (CAR): The last time Newton faced the Buccaneers he rushed for 3 scores and tossed another. That was with the Buccaneers top CB Aqib Talib. Now that Talib is injured, Newton gets an even easier go at it. The Buccaneers are reeling defensively, even allowing Blaine Gabbert a two touchdown day just two weeks ago. Newton is settling into himself as the season progresses and is learning how to be a passer first. A dangerous proposition given how effective he has been despite is evolving pass game.
2. TOM BRADY (NE): Brady is one of the best in the game and has torched much better secondaries than the Miami Dolphins. Though the Dolphins are playing above their 25th ranked secondary status, they have rarely faced such a talented, systematic offense. When these two teams met in week one, Brady torched them for 517 yards and 4 touchdowns. A repeat performance with all his weapons healthy is not far fetched.
3. DREW BREES (NO): Anyone who has followed Drew Brees knows what kind of competitor he is. Knowing he only needs a bit over 300 yards to break Marino’s single season passing record will have Brees at the top of his game. Against the average Falcons secondary which he blasted for 322 yards and 2 scores in week ten, Brees will be prepared to get the record here. A win against the Falcons clinches the divisional title and allows the Saints to rest their guys if need be week 17.
4. AARON RODGERS (GB): With his backs struggling and facing the Bears 8th ranked rush unit, Rodgers will have little choice but to air it out 30+ times this week. Though coming off the first loss of the season in KC, the Packers return home to face the one of the leagues weakest secondaries. Even without Greg Jennings, Rodgers should have no issues finding the likes of Finley, Nelson, and Driver given he will have to pass if the Packers want to win the game. Don’t think the loss didn’t leave a bitter taste in his mouth, one he will be hell bent on erasing.
5. MATT RYAN (ATL): As stated in my WR rankings, Ryan has finally figured out how best to use both Roddy White and Julio Jones. The pair have each scored in Atlanta’s last two games, making each fantasy worthy of a start. They also assist big time in the value of Matt Ryan. The Saints are 28th vs. the pass and it is their Achilles heel. Ryan has thrown for at least 3 touchdowns and no interceptions his last two games. He is just now hitting his stride after struggling most of the season and is sure to perform well this week. Since it is a divisional game with Atlanta having much to lose, there is the chance this is a tight one. Regardless, you could do much worse than Ryan, who should at least give you 13+ points this week if you own him.
6. PHILLIP RIVERS (SD): Rivers has finally found a groove after being a huge let down nearly all season. It’s no coincidence he started to perform better once Antonio Gates returned to the lineup. Rivers has thrown 7 touchdowns with no interceptions his last three games and finished with no lower than 240 yards passing. Against a soft Detroit Lions secondary which has tired down the stretch, he should be good for at least two scores and 220+ yards.
7. MIKE VICK (PHI): Vick has slowly worked back into the rhythm of things, throwing a pick and a score in each of his last two games. While he has yet to really get back to normal, a match up against the Cowboys is just what he needs. The last time these two teams met, Vick threw for 279 yards, rushed for 50 yards, and threw 2 touchdowns. The Eagles are firing on all cylinders and this is the chance for them to play spoiler and possibly ruin the Cowboys season. Expect one of their best efforts to date.
8. TIM TEBOW (DEN): The Bills are losers of 7 straight games, allowing no less than 24 points in each. They have allowed 26 passing scores and 16 rushing scores on the season. Tebow and the Broncos own the top rushing offense in the NFL so the match up fits well. Since Tebow has taken over as the starter, Denver has won every road game and looks like the favorite against a reeling Buffalo team reeling from injuries on both sides of the ball.
9. ELI MANNING (NYG): Manning has been one of the top quarterbacks all season, passing for 4362 yards and 25 scores on the season. While the Jets are ranked 7th against the pass, the Giants possess a plethora of options which is more than Revis can handle. Coming off a loss and a whole lot of smack talk by Rex Ryan, the Giants will be sure to bring their A game and remind the Jets who’s stadium this really belongs to.
10. REX GROSSMAN (WAS): Yes, that’s right, Grossman is on this list. Why? Because the Vikings are among the worst secondaries in the NFL and Grossman has returned to early season form. While his stats are not awe inspiring, he has been throwing the ball with confidence the last three games. The Vikings are 30th against the pass, allowing 31 touchdowns through the air so far. Only once has an opposing quarterback thrown for less than 260 yards and a score when the Vikings are on the road. Despite all of Grossman’s limitations, he makes a solid play if you are in need of help this week.