by: Samuel J. Nunnally

Andrew Luck and Robert Griffin III. Two names almost synonymous with the term, ‘franchise quarterback’. These two men have been media-created rivals since their senior years in college (Luck went to Stanford, Griffin attended Baylor). Griffin and Luck’s rivalry began with Griffin winning the Heisman Trophy over Luck, then Luck being drafted over Griffin. Regardless of who beat who for the award, or who was drafted first, each of these quarterbacks have made a significant impact on their respective teams (Luck for the Colts and Griffin for the Redskins). Both of these quarterbacks possess different weapons that make them great quarterbacks. Luck has his poise in the pocket and a powerful arm, while Griffin has speed and possesses the ability break a big play at any moment.

Luck and Griffin are both having great seasons to go along with their powerful skillsets. Luck has thrown for an amazing 3,596 yards this season, putting him at sixth in the league in that category. However, Griffin has only thrown for a modest 2,660, putting him at nearly 1,000 yards behind Luck. Both quarterbacks have thrown the same number of touchdowns, with 17, but Griffin has only thrown four interceptions, while Luck has thrown a staggering 16. Passing is not the only thing these quarterbacks have to offer either, they can both run too. On the ground, Luck has run for 216 yards, five touchdowns, and has not fumbled once. Griffin, on the other hand, has rushed for an amazing 714 yards, six touchdowns, but has fumbled eight times. As you can see, these two quarterbacks have almost identically great stats.

Luck and Griffin have both, obviously,  made their respective cases for rookie of the year honors. Luck having better passing statistics than Griffin, but Griffin topping Luck in the rushing category. Both of these quarterbacks have displayed great leadership towards their teams to go along with their athletic abilities. Luck has led his team to a 9-4 record and             Griffin has gotten his team to a 7-6 record. So, their teams are both obviously benefitting from their skills. But, if I had to pick one to start a team with, I would have to go with Luck.