Move the Sticks: Rookie QB Evaluations + Week 11 Preview
With the NFL regular season approaching its midpoint, it’s time to take stock of the rookie quarterbacks who have made an immediate impact on the league. From Trevor Lawrence to Mac Jones, these young signal-callers have shown flashes of brilliance and have helped their teams stay competitive. In this article, we’ll evaluate the performances of the top rookie QBs and preview the upcoming Week 11 matchups.
Rookie QB Evaluations
Trevor Lawrence, Jacksonville Jaguars
Trevor Lawrence has been a revelation for the Jacksonville Jaguars, who were winless in 2020. Lawrence has thrown for 2,397 yards, 12 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions, leading the Jaguars to a 3-7 record. His accuracy and arm strength have been impressive, but he has struggled with turnovers and decision-making at times. Nevertheless, Lawrence has shown that he has the potential to be a franchise-changing quarterback.
Mac Jones, New England Patriots
Mac Jones has been a steady presence for the New England Patriots, who have surprised many with their 6-4 record. Jones has thrown for 2,135 yards, 10 touchdowns, and 7 interceptions, completing 69.2% of his passes. His poise and leadership have been commendable, and he has shown a good grasp of the Patriots’ offensive system. Jones is not the most physically gifted quarterback, but his intelligence and accuracy make him a valuable asset for New England.
Justin Fields, Chicago Bears
Justin Fields has been a dynamic playmaker for the Chicago Bears, but his stats don’t always reflect his impact on the field. Fields has thrown for 1,282 yards, 4 touchdowns, and 8 interceptions, but he has also rushed for 381 yards and 2 touchdowns. His mobility and ability to extend plays have kept defenses honest, but he needs to improve his passing consistency. Fields has shown flashes of brilliance, but he needs to become more efficient in the passing game to take the next step in his development.
Zach Wilson, New York Jets
Zach Wilson has struggled in his rookie season with the New York Jets, who are winless through 10 games. Wilson has thrown for 1,919 yards, 9 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions, completing just 55.9% of his passes. His decision-making and accuracy have been major concerns, and he has failed to provide a spark for the Jets’ offense. Wilson has shown some promise as a runner, but he needs to improve significantly as a passer to help the Jets turn things around.
Week 11 Preview
Week 11 features several intriguing matchups, including a battle between two of the league’s top teams. Here are three games to watch:
Tennessee Titans at Green Bay Packers
The Tennessee Titans and Green Bay Packers are both 8-2 and tied for the best record in the NFL. The Titans are led by running back Derrick Henry, who is averaging 122.8 rushing yards per game. The Packers have a high-powered offense led by quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who has thrown for 2,347 yards, 19 touchdowns, and 4 interceptions. This game will be a battle of strength against strength, and it could have major implications for the NFC playoff race.
Buffalo Bills at Indianapolis Colts
The Buffalo Bills are 7-3 and looking to bounce back from a disappointing loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars. The Indianapolis Colts are 6-4 and have won their last three games. The Bills have one of the most talented rosters in the league, but they have struggled to put it all together consistently. The Colts have a strong defense led by linebacker Darius Leonard, and they have a balanced offense led by quarterback Carson Wentz. This game will be a good test for both teams.
Los Angeles Rams at Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Los Angeles Rams and Tampa Bay Buccaneers are both 7-3 and coming off bye weeks. The Rams have a high-powered offense led by quarterback Matthew Stafford, who has thrown for 2,717 yards, 25 touchdowns, and 5 interceptions. The Buccaneers have a strong defense led by linebacker Shaquil Barrett, and they have a balanced offense led by quarterback Tom Brady. This game will be a rematch of last year’s NFC Divisional Round playoff game, which the Rams won 30-27. It should be another close and exciting contest.
Week 11 is sure to provide plenty of excitement and drama. With several key matchups on the schedule, the playoff race is heating up. Stay tuned for all the latest NFL news and analysis.