Don't fall for the hype surrounding Eli Manning. I know his teammates aren't great, but he has been very inconsistent all season long, especially in conference play against better defenses. He doesn't see open receivers underneath, has a tendency to force balls, and as a whole just hasn't been all that effective. The talent is there certainly, but if you're going to criticize Simms it's ridiculous to not criticize Manning too, since they've been in almost identical situations. For all the criticism Simms gets from Texas fans, he is the top rated passer in the toughest conference in America, and he's made steady improvement throughout the season, despite a terrible offensive line and an average (at best) running game. Simms is better than Manning, though from what I've heard Manning will likely return to school anyway. The only quarterback that imo is head and shoulders above the rest is Carson Palmer. He has as much talent as anyone in the country, and this year is finally getting results. His numbers are terrific, he's done well in important games, and taken a USC team without a ton of talent to the BCS. I'm a little wary of Leftwich and Ragone. Leftwich has a great arm and is mobile, but he's had some injury problems and struggled in his one game this year (Va Tech) against a good team. Remember, he's putting up all these numbers in the MAC. I've just never been that impressed with Ragone, for whatever reason. He doesn't seem to have much mobility at all, and I've never been impressed with his arm like I have Palmer and Simms. I think he's a good quarterback, but I don't think he's a franchise quarterback. Here's the way I think the draft breaks down: Franchise quarterbacks: Carson Palmer Potential franchise quarterbacks: Byron Leftwich Chris Simms Eli Manning Good quarterbacks: Dave Ragone I think all of them will be first rounders, though.
Chad Pennington put up his numbers in the MAC. As did Randy Moss. I think you're underestimating Ragone. I think he could become a franchise quarterback. My rankings: 1st rnd picks: 1. Palmer 2. Leftwich late 1st or early 2nd rnd pick 3. Ragone 2nd-4th rnd picks 4. Manning (if he declares) 5. Simms
Well, there's some examples from every type of conference, but as a general rule of thumb I think you always have to be concerned about the level of competition. Also, you're judging way too much on their actual college performance. I don't think you're necessarily wrong in how it should be, but it just hasn't been like that in a while in the NFL. College results aren't a complete non-factor, but once scouts get Manning and Simms at the combine, and see their talent (in addition to their football IQ and their bloodlines), there's no way that either one won't be a first round pick. (unless they test terribly) They might not be able to step in as rookies like David Carr has, but teams in the first round will take gambles on Simms and Manning because there is so much talent there. Neither one has been blessed with the best coaching or system, and it's for that reason that you can't put too much stock into college performances. I list both of them as potential franchise quarterbacks, because while they haven't dominated the college game like Palmer has, they both have similar talent and are very smart. Also, remember Palmer has had more time in college than either Simms or Manning. IMO, all of these quarterbacks have a similar talent level and an ability to be great, but Palmer is the only one to have really distinguished himself by on the field performance.
Don't discount Byron Leftwich as the second best QB in the draft. Yes he plays in the MAC but check him out in the Bowl Game (or MAC championship). He constantly throws the ball in a perfect spot. It's not like he has great receivers at Marshall. I know Carson Palmer is having a great year but Leftwich has been doing this every year, Palmer is only putting up great number this year (think of Tim Couch vs. The Bengals great QB from Oregon). Palmer may end up being a good one as well, but I think Leftwich will be a nice Pro (starter for 8+ years)
Thanks for the info guys. Leftwich is playing at Marshall, that's where Pennington went right? I worked in Charleston, West Virginia back in 1999 and he was the talk of the town back then. I just hope Chicago doesn't pick a crappy QB again (McNown). They have Miller under contract and should be able to bring a QB in and allow him to learn the ropes like Pennington in NY. I also wouldn't mind giving Bulger a shot if his finger is ok. If not Carson Palmer, who else would be the top draft picks this year (any position)?
