ASHBURN – ESPN analyst Ron Jaworski released his updated NFL quarterback rankings Friday morning, for the first-quarter mark of the 2012 season. Jaws made several changes to his list, but perhaps the most interesting update was Washington Redskin QB Robert Griffin III coming in at No.17 – the highest debut ranking of any rookie QB in the history of the list, Jaworski told ‘Mike and Mike in the Morning’ co-hosts Mike Greenburg and Mike Golic on Friday’s show.
The former Eagle quarterback’s reasoning for the historic ranking included Griffin’s lack of mistakes; as RGIII has thrown just one interception through the first four games of 2012.
Griffin led the Redskins to a last-minute victory last week in Tampa, improving Washington’s record to 2-2. However, RGIII must continue to play error-free football to rise above that .500-mark this Sunday at Fed Ex Field. He and the ‘Skins face their toughest test yet against an undefeated Atlanta Falcons team, whose defense has unleashed nightmares on opposing quarterbacks this season.
Washington’s offensive line needs to knock off the penalties and continue to build more chemistry against a swarming Falcon defense. The Redskins’ men in the trenches have looked better recently, having stepped-up their performance last week with Trent Williams return to the line-up at left tackle. Cincinnati’s defense treated Griffin like a ragdoll in week three as Mike Shanahan’s offense continued to run the option. Fortunately for RGIII, Shanahan dialed down the planned runs last week and the rookie stayed on his feet, with Williams protecting his blindside.
Other notable changes in Jaworski’s list included Tom Brady advancing one spot to No.2 and Jay Cutler’s slide from No.8 to 13.
NOTE: ESPN’s Dan Graziano reported Friday that Griffin was also named rookie of the month for September.
You can follow Todd C. Smith on Twitter @tcsmitty
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