I’ll be the first to admit that I’m not a statistical wizard and I place very little relevance in advanced analytics, which is why the following ESPN QBR rankings do not shock me.
On this specific list Fitzpatrick only trails Andy Dalton and Carson Palmer in terms of importance. Fitzpatrick has been having a great season for the Jets and he’s surely surpassed their expectations but by no means has he looked as valuable as Tom Brady or Aaron Rodgers.
QBR is supposed to take into account the areas that are left out of traditional analytics such as caliber of players around the QB, total yards accounted for because of the QB’s decision-making, etc. Instead they’ve managed to place Fitzpatrick ahead of legit MVP candidates.
All you truly need to know about the system is that Cam Newton ranks in the 20s despite having an undefeated record, rushing for multiple touchdowns and not having his #1 receiver available due to injury.
If you figure this system out feel free to enlighten us but until then I’ll stick to the eye test.