By Bart Lopez

1. Aaron Rodgers (GB): It might be time to panic. Aaron Rodgers threw his fourth interception of the year last week. Seriously though, he also threw for 299 yards and three touchdowns. The guy can’t be stopped and is a fantasy force of nature. Projected fantasy points: 25.2.

2. Tom Brady (NE): Brady wasn’t as accurate as normal Monday night, but still finished with 234 passing yards and two touchdowns. This week the Pats face the Eagles. Philadelphia’s defense stepped up last week, but New England’s offense is too good. Projected fantasy points: 20.2.

3. Drew Brees (NO): Brees is back on the list after the Saints bye in week 11. Number nine has been solid all year despite a few iffy games, throwing 23 touchdowns to 11 interceptions. Expect him to step up at home on Monday night. Projected fantasy points: 19.6.

4. Cam Newton (CAR): Newtown has not played very well the past two games, including a four interception performance against the Lions last week. Despite the turnovers he still scored three touchdowns, one in the air and two on the ground. There is good news for Newton fantasy owners as the Panthers play the Colts this week. Projected fantasy points: 19.3.

5. Philip Rivers (SD): Rivers has not lived up to expectations this year, but is still a solid fantasy quarterback. Against a tough Bears defense, he threw for 280 yards and two touchdowns. The Chargers season is on the line this weekend, so expect Rivers to step at home against the Broncos. Projected fantasy points: 16.8.

Not top 5, but could be: This week’s quarterback that missed the cut is Detroit’s Matthew Stafford. Stafford overcame a bad game against the Bears with a huge game against the Panthers last week. He threw for 335 yards and five touchdowns. The Lions play the Packers this week. Green Bay’s defense has given up lots of points all year, so I’m expecting Stafford to have a big game. Projected fantasy points: 16.1.