2018 NFL Schedule: 5 Quarterback Duels That Will Be Must-See

Quarterbacks always decide whether a given season is a success or not. The 2018 NFL schedule will be no different. People tune in for that stuff.

The 2017 season saw quite a few thrilling quarterback duels but the year was somewhat marred by a shocking number of injuries to big names. Hopes are high this won’t be the case again. While the schedule itself isn’t set, the teams do know who they’re going to play. Thus it’s clear which quarterback showdowns are going to happen, be it early or late in the year. Here are the ones that fans should be circling on their counter come fall and winter.

Deshaun Watson vs. Carson Wentz

Certainly two men who will be on a mission to prove something in 2018. Deshaun Watson was already writing his name on the Rookie of the Year award before tearing his ACL for Houston last year. Carson Wentz was doing the same with the MVP in Philadelphia before he too shredded his knee. Both were putting up ridiculous points prior to their injuries but will also be challenged by good defenses in this game. It should be a tremendous display of athleticism and playmaking instinct.

Tom Brady vs. Aaron Rodgers

Seeing the two best in the business getting to lock horns is a forgotten tradition NFL fans haven’t enjoyed since Peyton Manning retired. Thankfully the schedule relents here, bringing Tom Brady and Aaron Rodgers together again. Both men are coming off major disappointments in 2017. Rodgers missed most of the year with a broken collarbone. Brady lost the Super Bowl. Each will be trying to prove that they are still the best at what they do. So far the two have only met once in their careers, so this should a fun treat.

Jimmy Garoppolo vs. Jared Goff

This is the rivalry that people want to see. Not Brian Hoyer vs. Jared Goff. San Francisco has their quarterback now in Jimmy Garoppo. He and Goff going head-to-head with Kyle Shanahan and Sean McVay in their ears. That sounds like the makings of an annual rivalry football fans would tune in from all over to watch. The fact both matchups will be on the west coast in likely perfect weather conditions makes it all the better. People like points in a good QB duel.

Patrick Mahomes vs. Russell Wilson

One of the most underrated aspects of a good quarterback showdown is seeing two men who play with similar styles. Particularly this is true of the gunslingers. Mahomes and Wilson share the same mentalities. They aren’t traditional pocket passers. They like to move with their exceptional athleticism and are looking for the deep strike at almost every opportunity. Throw in the fact that they were be playing against secondaries that have lost some of their best players makes it possible the big plays will be frequent in this one.

Next: 2018 NFL Mock Draft: The Quarterback Wars Rage in Top 10

Drew Brees vs. Eli Manning

This might not be the matchup people expected to make the list but it’s important to factor in history here. Each of the past two times Brees and Manning men, the games were close and exciting. That includes a ridiculous 52-49 shootout in 2015 that saw the two men combine for 13 touchdown passes. Manning has offensive guru Pat Shurmur running the show now and will also have a healthy Odell Beckham Jr. back. Brees is still Brees. Not many people will see this is a must-see game but could end up disappointed they didn’t watch.