NFL Power Rankings: Top Quarterbacks 20-11
By Erik Lambert
Oct 5, 2014; Foxborough, MA, USA; Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Andy Dalton (14) passes the ball during the second quarter against the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Stew Milne-USA TODAY Sports
The countdown continues in the NFL power rankings of the top quarterbacks around the league. Who fills slots 20 to 11?
#20 – Kirk Cousins – Washington Redskins
Ask anybody. It’s never easy to come in midseason as a quarterback and play well. Kirk Cousins has had to do it a few times and in retrospect has done well for the Washington Redskins. He has played very well in three out of four games this season and is responsible for their only win in 2014.
#19 – Andy Dalton – Cincinnati Bengals
New England proved once again that Andy Dalton is a deficient quarterback. He can have great stretches for the Cincinnati Bengals but when truly pressed he doesn’t have the talent to take his game up a notch. Still, they are 3-1 with him and that matters most.
#18 – Alex Smith – Kansas City Chiefs
He may go down as the greatest game manager in league history. Alex Smith is what he is. He’ll orchestrate an offense to perfect provided it has a stable rushing attack but when asked to consistently pass the Kansas City Chiefs to victory, too often he’ll come up short. His success is hard to argue with though.
#17 – Jay Cutler – Chicago Bears
The frustrating thing about Jay Cutler is he’s his own worst enemy. If he really wanted, he could cut apart any defense in the league, but his stubborn inability to protect the football is why he’s so far down the list and considered a lost cause by experts.
#16 – Joe Flacco – Baltimore Ravens
As usual there is nothing really remarkable about Joe Flacco every week but his numbers don’t lie and he keeps finding ways to help his team win. He also has that ring which is why he has remained consistent in the top 20.