How did Jaxson Dart get a mediocre PFF grade in the Cowboys game?

Key Points:

• The author discusses the challenges and misunderstandings surrounding Pro Football Focus (PFF) quarterback grading, emphasizing that PFF grades the quality of play process rather than just results, which can lead to seemingly low grades for statistically strong performances.
• Jaxson Dart’s PFF passing grade of 68.5, considered average, sparked controversy despite his solid stats; PFF’s grading penalizes lack of explosive plays and turnover-worthy throws, explaining the middling score.
• PFF grades plays on a scale from -2 to +2, with “big-time throws” and “turnover-worthy plays” heavily influencing final grades, but many plays receive neutral or slight positive/negative scores reflecting expected NFL QB performance.
• The article compares PFF’s process-focused grades to Pro Football Sports Network’s (PFSN) “Impact Grade,” which is results-based and rewards overall statistical impact, showing differing QB rankings that appeal to different evaluative perspectives.
• Ultimately, the author suggests that combining multiple metrics—both process and results—provides a fuller understanding of a player’s performance, while recognizing that offensive strategy and team style also affect grading outcomes.