With four weeks left in the NFL season there’s an interesting question which QB’s need big time final quarters? Either for team development or for personal contract needs. Let’s examine some signal callers who need to light it up and soon.
Case Keenum
I have long been a respect Case Keenum guy but there comes a point where every amateur sports blogger needs to look in the mirror and say, is this take worth it? Is Case Keenum worth it? I don’t really know and that’s why Case Keenum needs to have a strong finish to the season. If John Elway wants to continue this experiment Keenum needs to play out of his mind down the stretch. If he doesn’t it’s just not worth it to keep him around another year. Because the team around him is so strong, Keenum has no room for excuses he should be able to put up some stats down the stretch with lack luster opponents on the schedule. If the Broncos miss the playoffs maybe it’s time to explore a new option at QB, because to waste a young talent filled roster like this year after year with average QB play is the definition of insanity.
Derek Carr
Carr’s situation is much different than Keenums. In his case it may be better for the Raiders if he plays well down the stretch. I don’t think this Carr Gruden relationship lasts for two years. If Carr can play well the Raiders could deal him to a team in need of an upgrade at QB for a first or second round pick in my opinion. It’s easy to bag on Carr but if you consider he hasn’t had any weapons since 2015 his stats look pretty good. The fact he only has 8 interceptions this year is a miracle of sorts. He needs a big finish to sell himself not only to the Raiders but to the rest of the league.
Marcus Mariota
Time to take the gloves off. I’ve been patient, I’ve given him time to adjust to a new OC but it’s time to ask the hard questions at this point in Mariotas career. Is he a franchise QB? I’m inclined to say no. The guy has never had a moment where I look at him and say, that’s it that’s the guy. Mariota is best when he uses his legs but he can’t stay healthy if he does use them. It doesn’t help that he has zero weapons outside of Corey Davis around him but still Mariota needs to really show something down the stretch or maybe it’s time to rethink the QB situation in Tennesee.
The entire NFC North
Rapid fire.
Aaron Rodgers, yes Aaron Rodgers you need to shoulder some of the blame for the dumpster fire that is the Green Bay Packers. You’ve overcome a lack of weapons before, why not this year? Prove that it was all McCarthy’s fault, you haven’t played a complete game since week 4. Put some together and prove your still Aaron Rodgers.
Kirk Cousins, meh. That’s all you can say about Cousins. He was supposed to be this teams savior and guess what he’s been incredibly inconsistent and overall mediocre. One week he outduels Aaron Rodgers, the next he drops and an absolute dud in New England. The stats with Cousins and Keenum behind this offense are barely distinguishable if Cousins is worth anything hell make a difference and help this Vikings team make the playoffs.
Mitchell Trubisky, again meh. Is Trubisky bad? No. Do I envision him leading a team to the Super Bowl? Ehh I don’t know. Thankfully he has awesome pieces on offense and a great coaching staff around him but without any of those things what sets him apart? I just don’t know.
Matthew Stafford, this ones personal. Listen I have long loved Matthew Stafford but I’m losing patience. His stats are ok but overall I wouldn’t say he’s been a top half QB this year. Maybe Kenny Golloday isn’t as good as we thought he was but this offense should be doing better than they currently are. Also blame the O line all you want but the fact of the matter is Stafford holds the ball way too long.