The NFC West division finds itself in the thick of competition as it continues to be one of the most tightly contested divisions in the NFL. As the dust settles from Week 14, only two games separate the leading team from the bottom, highlighting the unpredictable nature of this division.
NFC West Quarterback Performances
Central to the division's riveting race are the performances of its quarterbacks, each bringing their own flair and statistics to the table. Kyler Murray, Matthew Stafford, Geno Smith, and Brock Purdy form the core that keeps the NFC West in the conversation as one of the most dynamic quarterback groupings in the league.
In a display of quarterback prowess, the NFC West recorded an impressive average passer rating of 117.2 in Week 14 alone. Matthew Stafford of the Los Angeles Rams and Brock Purdy of the San Francisco 49ers led the charge with stellar ratings, each posting passer ratings over 130 in their crucial home victories.
Stafford’s 132.6 rating came in a thrilling 44-42 victory against the Buffalo Bills, marking his sixth game with a passer rating over 100 this season and his third over 120. Meanwhile, Brock Purdy's remarkable 145.4 passer rating against the Chicago Bears underscored his growing competence as a reliable playmaker for the 49ers.
Ups and Downs for Kyler Murray
Kyler Murray of the Arizona Cardinals, although boasting a commendable 4.8% Big-Time Throw rate within the division, has faced challenges with protection. Since the beginning of November, Murray has been sacked 12 times, yielding a sack rate of 7.3%, which adds a layer of complexity to his otherwise dynamic play. His ability to make big plays remains undeniable, as demonstrated by his 266-yard performance against the New York Jets last month.
Geno Smith's Steady Hand
Over in Seattle, Geno Smith has been pivotal in orchestrating the Seahawks’ offense. Under his guidance, the team enjoyed a four-game win streak during which his pressure rate impressively decreased from 41% to 32.7%. Despite the intense scrutiny quarterbacks face, Smith has maintained a solid Turnover-Worthy Play rate of just 2.2%, making judicious use of his opportunities. Among his targets, Jaxon Smith-Njigba stands out, leading Seattle with an impressive 75 receptions for 911 yards.
The Rams' Offensive Balance
The Rams, under Stafford's leadership, have shown a balanced offensive attack. They currently rank 15th in EPA (Expected Points Added) per drop back and 11th in EPA per rushing attempt post-Week 14. Notably, Stafford hasn't thrown an interception since Week 10, a testament to his precision. In the past four games alone, he has logged eight Big-Time Throws against just one Turnover-Worthy Play.
Adding to their offensive arsenal, Kyren Williams has been a revelation with more than 1,000 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns, providing a dual threat that challenges any opposing defense.
49ers’ Tactical Efficiency
San Francisco's ground game, although ranked 14th in EPA per rush, complements Purdy’s aerial attack, ensuring a methodical and calculated offensive strategy. Purdy’s own 4.0% Big-Time Throw rate reflects a capability to execute high-impact plays when necessary, aligning well with the team's ethos.
As the NFC West hurtles towards the climax of the season, the performances of these quarterbacks and the strategic finesse of their respective teams promise an electrifying race to the top. Each team continues to jockey for advantage, knowing that any slip-up could recalibrate the standings dramatically. This blend of unpredictability and high-octane play makes the NFC West a must-watch as the league narrows its focus on the postseason.