Comparing Andy Dalton To Other NFL Rookie QB's

So I'm sitting here thinking if the Bengals drafted the right QB in Andy Dalton instead of some other big names like Jake Locker, Christian Ponder, Blaine Gabbert, Ryan Mallett and even Cam Newton.

So here are the stats after four pre-season games.

Cam Newton

Blaine Gabbert

Christian Ponder

Jake Locker

Ryan Mallett

Andy Dalton

The only person I really can compare Andy Dalton stats to is Cam Newton because, only those two started every single preseason game. Which means they both started against first team defense instead of second and thirds string defense like some other rookie QB's faced. Andy went 36 of 60 for 328 yards with 3 INT and 1 TD with a passer rating of 59.6. Even though those are not great numbers, I think looking at the circumstance it's safe to assume he did better than some of the other rookie QB's around the league. And for right now, it looks like Dalton was the right pick.

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Carolina Panthers vs Cincinnati Bengals Re-Cap 8/25/2011

A nice change of pace from the past two preseason games as the Bengals beat the Panther 24-13. Things seems to be gelling in the third preseason game, which is a much needed welcome to the eyes of many Bengals fans. I'm personally slightly more optimistic about the reminder of the season.

The Good:
The offense looked 100% better against the panthers than it did vs the Jets and Lions. Putting up 24 points in the first half against the Panthers first team defense was a much needed confidence boost for this young team. I also know the Panthers don't have the same kind defense as the Lions or the Jets. But it's ok because this is a new offense, a young offense and I was happy to see the improvement.
The front four seems to put all kinds of pressure on Cam, especially Geno.  He has been playing outstanding since late last season. Few other players on defense also stepped up (Ruckers, M. Johnson).I'm sure the Panthers have a crappy defense, but the rushing game was on. With having a young offensive team, rushing the ball might be the way to go forward.
The Bad:
Turnovers seems to haunt the Bengals in the preseason. In three preseason games the Bengals have had 8 turnovers and the opponents have scored in seven off them.
The pass defense seems to be a few steps behind the rush defense.

Share your thoughts. What did you guys like and dislike?

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