NFL quarterback rankings, Week 13: Alex Smith craters

Bobby Layne Division

8. Matt Ryan (Prev: 8)

After a swoon at the midseason point, Ryan and the Falcons are rolling. The reigning MVP has thrown for 2,888 yards while completing two-thirds of his throws. Atlanta and its quarterback are getting hot at the right time.

7. Jared Goff (Prev: 7)

Goff has become one of the best quarterbacks in the league, doing so behind head coach Sean McVay and a talented receiving core. The former No. 1 pick has 2,964 yards and 18 touchdowns, putting the Rams on the edge of the playoffs.

6. Philip Rivers (Prev: 6)

Rivers is sizzling at the moment, still cooling down after thrashing the Cowboys. Los Angeles is back in the playoff mix and Rivers is a main reason why, throwing for 2,948 yards and 20 touchdowns against only seven interceptions.

5. Matthew Stafford (Prev: 5)

Stafford is criminally underrated. The Lions have a poor offensive line, no running game, a lousy tight end, a middling defense and a suspect head coach. Yet they are still 6-5 and in the race because of Stafford, who has thrown for 3,010 yards and 21 touchdowns.