The NFC West continues to capture the attention of football enthusiasts as it remains one of the most competitive divisions in the NFL this season. With all four teams in the mix and just two games separating the leader from the trailing team, it’s a race that holds unpredictability and excitement in spades.
A Closer Look at the Quarterbacks
Leading their teams with distinct styles and performances are four quarterbacks who have carved their own narratives through Week 14. Kyler Murray, Matthew Stafford, Geno Smith, and Brock Purdy are the signal callers defining the pace and rhythm of the NFC West.
This past week, the quarterbacks collectively posted an impressive average passer rating of 117.2, underscoring their elite playmaking capabilities. Matthew Stafford and Brock Purdy particularly stood out with stellar performances in their Week 14 home games, each achieving a passer rating exceeding 130. Stafford’s prolific 132.6 rating came during an electrifying 44-42 victory over the Buffalo Bills. The game marked Stafford’s sixth with a passer rating over 100 this season and his third surpassing 120, further solidifying his essential role for the Rams.
On the other side, Brock Purdy delivered a near-perfect quarterback performance against the Chicago Bears, achieving a stunning passer rating of 145.4. Purdy's precision and efficiency were on full display, aligning with his 4.0% Big-Time Throw rate that complements his game.
Performance Pressure and Precision
Kyler Murray, known for his dual-threat capability, has been facing significant defensive pressure, evidenced by the 12 sacks he’s endured since November, resulting in a 7.3% sack rate. However, Murray’s 4.8% Big-Time Throw rate in the division showcases his willingness to make challenging throws under pressure. He threw for 266 yards against the Jets last month, reflecting his adaptability and resilience.
Geno Smith has similarly demonstrated poise, particularly during Seattle’s recent four-game win streak where his pressure rate impressively dipped from 41% to 32.7%. Smith has maintained a Turnover-Worthy Play rate of just 2.2%, exhibiting careful game management and decision-making on the field. A significant contributor to Seattle's passing game, Jaxon Smith-Njigba has emerged as a leading target, catching 75 passes for 911 yards, offering reliability and an additional canvas for Smith's pass accuracy.
Team Dynamics and Rushing Impact
Looking at the broader team dynamics, the 49ers hold the 14th spot in EPA per rush, highlighting their commitment to a balanced offensive approach. Meanwhile, in Los Angeles, Stafford has abstained from throwing interceptions since Week 10, a critical factor for a Rams team currently ranking 15th in EPA per drop back and 11th in EPA per rushing attempt post-Week 14. Stafford’s eight Big-Time Throws compared to one Turnover-Worthy Play in recent weeks have played a significant role in the Rams’ outcomes.
Kyren Williams has been a revelation in the Rams’ backfield, surpassing the 1,000-yard rushing mark and scoring 12 touchdowns. His performance adds another layer of depth to the Rams' offensive strategy, keeping opponents guessing and defenses on alert.
As the NFC West remains tight and competitive, the performances of these quarterbacks and their respective teams will be pivotal as the season progresses. The division is rife with challenges and opportunities, promising thrilling matchups and unexpected turns as each team bids for supremacy.