Rodgers helps Steelers to 4-1 as analytics rank him last

Aaron Rodgers has helped the Pittsburgh Steelers open the season strongly, but his early success has been shadowed by a polarizing analytic ranking and questions about the roster around him. As of Week 6, the Steelers sit at 4-1 and lead the AFC North after Rodgers' steady play and a 23-9 victory over the Cleveland Browns on Sunday at Acrisure Stadium.

An analytics firm recently placed Rodgers at the bottom of its list of starting quarterbacks for the season so far, a ranking that prompted public pushback from team reporters and national commentators who cited Rodgers' on-field production and context. Through the first four games Rodgers completed 68.5 percent of his passes for 786 yards with eight touchdowns and three interceptions, producing a 102.6 passer rating. In Sunday’s win he added 21 completions on 30 attempts for 235 yards and two touchdowns without an interception.

Critics of the ranking say it does not reflect the conditions under which Rodgers has operated. A Pittsburgh reporter argued the veteran has been protecting the team amidst a fragile offensive line and limited receiving depth, and that he has made timely, accurate throws that have translated into wins. An...