Understanding QBR: Decoding the Quarterback Rating System

By Dorrington Myers

In the world of football, the performance of a quarterback is often scrutinized and analyzed from multiple angles. One of the key metrics used to evaluate QB performance is the Quarterback Rating (QBR). Despite its widespread use, QBR can be complex and sometimes misunderstood. This article aims to demystify QBR, offering fans a comprehensive understanding of how it works, its significance, and its limitations.

What is QBR?

QBR, or Quarterback Rating, is a statistical measure used to evaluate the overall performance of a quarterback. Developed by ESPN, Total QBR (Total Quarterback Rating) is designed to provide a more comprehensive assessment of a QB's impact on the game compared to traditional passer ratings. QBR takes into account various aspects of a QB's performance, including passing, rushing, decision-making, and even situational context.

Highest QBR returning in 2024:

Dillon Gabriel (Oregon), 2023 QBR- 87. Good enough for fourth in the country, only behind the three guys who went high in this year’s draft.

How is QBR Calculated?

Total QBR is calculated on a scale from 0 to 100, with 50 being an average performance. The formula for QBR is proprietary and complex, but it involves several key components:

Passing Performance : This includes traditional passing statistics like completions, yards, touchdowns, and interceptions. However, QBR also factors in the difficulty of the throw, the quality of the defense, and whether the throw was under pressure.

Rushing Contributions : Unlike traditional passer ratings, QBR accounts for a QB's rushing plays. This includes yards gained, touchdowns, and even the context of the rush (e.g., scrambling for a first down on third-and-long).

Sack Avoidance : QBR penalizes QBs for taking sacks, which are often considered a QB's fault unless they are unavoidable due to poor offensive line play.

Fumbles : Lost fumbles are included in the QBR calculation, reflecting a QB's ability to protect the ball.

Situational Context : This is perhaps the most unique aspect of QBR. It adjusts for the game situation, such as the down and distance, score differential, and time remaining. Plays in high-leverage situations (e.g., fourth-quarter comebacks) are weighted more heavily.

Why is QBR Important?

QBR provides a more holistic view of a quarterback's performance than traditional passer ratings, which primarily focus on passing stats. By including rushing contributions, sack avoidance, and situational context, QBR offers a better understanding of a QB's true impact on the game. This makes it a valuable tool for coaches, analysts, and fans alike.

Limitations of QBR

While QBR is a significant improvement over traditional passer ratings, it is not without its limitations:

Complexity :  The proprietary and complex nature of QBR calculations can make it difficult for casual fans to understand.

Subjectivity :  Some aspects of QBR, such as the difficulty of throws and the quality of the defense, involve a degree of subjectivity.

Inconsistent Situations :  The importance placed on situational context means that QBs in more high-leverage situations may have an advantage in QBR rankings.

Proprietary Nature :  As the formula for QBR is not publicly available, it can lack transparency and be difficult to scrutinize.

Conclusion

QBR is a valuable tool that provides a comprehensive assessment of a quarterback's performance, capturing aspects that traditional passer ratings miss. While it has its limitations, understanding QBR can offer fans a deeper appreciation of the complexities and nuances of quarterback play. By demystifying QBR, we can better appreciate the skills and decisions that make a great quarterback truly exceptional.

Call to Action

For fans interested in diving deeper into the world of quarterback performance metrics, exploring the nuances of QBR is a great start. Understanding the intricacies of this metric can enhance your appreciation of the game and provide new insights into your favorite quarterbacks' performances.