6 Things I Learned From Week 8 of the NFL Season

Doug Marrone Made the Right Quarterback Choice

numberFire contributor Joe Redemann wrote about Kyle Orton less than a week ago, noting that, while his per drop back efficiency wasn't that much better than EJ Manuel's, his impact on the rest of the team has been noticed. This was especially true of wide receiver Sammy Watkins.

Hopefully you fantasy owners listened.

Orton was great against our 21st-ranked secondary (according to Net Expected Points) on Sunday, totaling 10.88 Passing NEP. For reference, the New York Jets' quarterbacks combined for close to -20 NEP, meaning the difference in quarterback play in the contest equated to over four touchdowns. No wonder the Jets struggled.

Perhaps what was most impressive by Orton was that he performed above expectation with a third and fourth-string running back tandem. Bryce Brown and Anthony Dixon finished the day with a combined -7.36 Rushing NEP, meaning the offensive production was driven by Orton.

At this point, it'd be tough to criticize the coaching staff's decision to make Orton the starting quarterback.