[Spartan Havoc]

Over the past few years, and especially this preseason, there’s been a lot of debate about if Atlanta’s Matt Ryan is an “elite’’ quarterback.

I’m not sure what the exact qualifications are for elite status. But I’ve always been a big believer that the most important thing a quarterback can do is win games.

If that’s true, Ryan qualifies as elite. In four seasons, he’s won a lot of games. Ryan’s career record as a starter is 43-19. That’s a .694 winning percentage, which puts him third among active NFL quarterbacks that have made 10 regular-season starts.

Only Tom Brady (.780) and Ben Roethlisberger (.708) have better winning percentages, and I think pretty much everyone agrees they’re elite. Ryan’s winning percentage is ahead of guys like Peyton Manning (.678), Aaron Rodgers (.661) and Drew Brees (.601) and I don’t think there’s any question they’re elite quarterbacks.

Yeah, I know the difference with Ryan is that he never has won a postseason game. But people used to knock Manning for not being able to win the big one early in his career and he now is on his way to the Hall of Fame.

http://espn.go.com/blog/nflnation/po...-already-elite

[Major Seahawk]

Dude sucks in the playoffs...

[jeremyjh]

Just like my uncle who has the whole Falcons offense in Fantasy, I have to say no... wana hear about an elite QB theirs only a few (elite=super bowls) EX:Brady, Peytan, Drew

[Brendan]

Gonna go with what MS said lmao

[PATS16N0]

"Elite?"

Talk to me after he has a ring and he's still performing at a top tier level 12 years later.

Until then ESPN can take their over used word and shove it up their...

[Canadian Speed]

As far as season's stats are concerned, yes, he is. All you have to do is watch the guy. BUT, like Romo, he has had a hard time in getting over the playoff hump. That being said, unlike Romo, he hasn't been the reason for those playoff humps...

I think this is his year to shine more then ever. He's a 5 year guy, he's got weapons, the defense is looking as solid as it's ever looked and he's playing near perfect ball right now... If Eli can be called elite with a couple of good post seasons (two Super Bowls), if Ryan does well and wins a ring, I don't see how Ryan can't be called elite.

[Major Seahawk]

Ryan has always had good weapons. And what's the excuse for last year? They didn't even score any offensive points, he obviously played a big role in that