Tentative AFC playoff quarterbacks

[The Real Deal]

Okay, since AJ McCarron became our starting QB, I've been skeptical about how far he can or can't take us come playoff time. And to be honest, I still am. But in reviewing the AFC teams that are currently in the playoffs if the season ended today, even I have become a little more optimistic. Why? Look no further than the starting QB list for said teams:

New England - Tom Brady
Cincinnati - AJ McCarron
Denver - Brock Osweiller
Houston-Brandon Weeden
Kansas City-Alex Smith
New York - Ryan Fitzpatrick

Now while the verdict is definitely still out on what we have in AJ McCarron, I think one can rightly say that he has the ability to play at or above the level of at least 3, maybe even 4 of those quarterbacks. Other than Brady the rest are just kinda ho-hum. I know there are flashes here and there from some of the others on that list, but Brady is the only one that truly strikes fear in a team.

Looking at what this bengals team has to offer as a whole and seeing the qb's that are on the AFC contenders has me thinking more positively today. It's still a long shot in my mind, but I do believe it can be done.

Hopefully after tonight this positive thinking will have grown even more.