Hawgdriver
09-09-2008, 01:46 PM
Jay Cutler has just lifted himself onto the platform of the NFL's elite QBs. His play tonight puts him in the company of Romo, Manning, McNabb, Brady, and Brees. He might end up better than them in the context of this season alone (sans Brady of course). He was eerily accurate (except on two throws, but he erred to safety, and who is to say that the pass to Stokely at the goal line wasn't Stokely's fault as well). He played exceptionally from the pocket, and also out of the pocket. He showed a masterful understanding of his passing lanes and coverage. When Royal needed to be directed to get open he made it happen with a hand signal. When the best play was to run, he recognized it. He put the ball where only his receiver had a play. Had D-Jack not been off the LOS, and had Schef caught a perfectly thrown ball, he would have had a 4 TD night.
Now the caveats. It's easy to look good against East Oakland Junior College. He also had consistent protection and time to throw. He had a mismatch (Royal v. all takers in the Ryan defense) to exploit. His playcaller (Bates) gave him all the best plays.
Still, I think Cutler looked better than any other QB I saw from week one, with the exception of McNabb. He is in elite company, and has stepped up to take the mantle of Bronco's QB with such poise and stature that as a fan you have confidence that you can win any game. It's just one game, but he didn't just play well, he dominated completely. Cutler has arrived.
Now the caveats. It's easy to look good against East Oakland Junior College. He also had consistent protection and time to throw. He had a mismatch (Royal v. all takers in the Ryan defense) to exploit. His playcaller (Bates) gave him all the best plays.
Still, I think Cutler looked better than any other QB I saw from week one, with the exception of McNabb. He is in elite company, and has stepped up to take the mantle of Bronco's QB with such poise and stature that as a fan you have confidence that you can win any game. It's just one game, but he didn't just play well, he dominated completely. Cutler has arrived.