NFC West Competition Tightens as Quarterbacks Shine
The NFC West continues to be one of the most closely contested divisions in the NFL, with just two games separating the top team from the bottom as the season progresses. This division is home to some of the most electrifying quarterback play in the league, with Kyler Murray, Matthew Stafford, Geno Smith, and Brock Purdy taking center stage.
In Week 14, NFC West quarterbacks demonstrated their prowess with an outstanding average passer rating of 117.2. The headliners were undoubtedly Matthew Stafford and Brock Purdy, who both delivered exemplary performances with passer ratings exceeding 130 in successful home games. Stafford, in particular, dazzled with a 132.6 rating, leading his team to a thrilling 44-42 victory over the Buffalo Bills. This performance marked the sixth instance in the current season where Stafford achieved a passer rating above 100, and the third time he surpassed 120.
On the other side, Brock Purdy matched his brilliance with a stellar 145.4 passer rating against the Chicago Bears. Purdy's continued development and remarkable 4.0% Big-Time Throw rate exemplify the depth and competitiveness thriving within the NFC West. Both quarterbacks have harnessed their team’s potential to secure imperative wins at this late stage of the season.
Kyler Murray remains a pivotal force in the division thanks to his dynamic playing style and notable 4.8% Big-Time Throw rate. However, challenges have emerged. Since November, Murray has been sacked 12 times, resulting in a sack rate of 7.3%. Despite this pressure, he managed to throw for 266 yards against the Jets last month, displaying his resilience under duress. The Cardinals will look towards him to reduce mistakes and remain upright as the playoff race intensifies.
For the Seattle Seahawks, Geno Smith's journey has been equally engaging. Displaying a Turnover-Worthy Play rate of 2.2%, Smith has been a beacon of steadiness for the Seahawks offense. Perhaps even more compelling has been his ability to adjust to defensive pressure, with his pressure rate dropping from 41% to 32.7% across a remarkable four-game winning streak. Jaxon Smith-Njigba has emerged as a crucial target for Smith, leading the team with 75 catches totaling 911 yards, highlighting a well-rounded offensive unit.
Team Dynamics and Emerging Stars
The Los Angeles Rams have capitalized on Stafford's red-hot form, not having thrown an interception since Week 10. His recent record boasts eight Big-Time Throws to just one Turnover-Worthy Play in his last four games, underlining his precision and calculated risk-taking. As a result, the Rams have secured their standing with a respectable 15th rank in EPA per drop back, further strengthened by their 11th rank in EPA per rushing attempt following Week 14's conclusion. The emergence of Kyren Williams, with over 1,000 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns this season, has reinforced their ground game, providing the balance needed for a formidable offensive strategy.
Meanwhile, the San Francisco 49ers are establishing themselves as a competitive force in the rushing department, currently standing 14th in EPA per rush. This capability adds a crucial dimension to their offensive identity, supporting Brock Purdy as he navigates the rigors of an NFL season.
Overall, the NFC West exemplifies the competitive spirit of professional football, with each team showcasing unique strengths led by marquee quarterbacks. Whether it’s precision passing, dynamic playmaking, or strategic adaptability, each player is contributing to what is shaping up to be an exciting race to the playoffs. As these quarterbacks continue to raise the bar, fans can anticipate more exhilarating performances in the crucial weeks to come.