Measuring a quarterback’s success over the course of a season is a complex process that involves taking into account a myriad of statistics, data, film analysis, and other key performance indicators. While there are dozens of things to look at, one of the most prominent indicators is, of course, passing touchdowns.
At the end of the day, scoring touchdowns and putting points on the board is the primary focus (along with limiting turnovers) of an NFL offense and helps take a lot of the pressure off an NFL defense. And since quarterbacks are the leader of the offense, throwing touchdowns helps set the tone for everything else.
With that said, how many touchdowns should quarterbacks aim to throw in a 17-game season? If they’re looking to be listed among the top-5 quarterbacks of that season, 30+ touchdowns (nearly 2 touchdowns per game played) will almost always do the trick. Unfortunately, it’s something we don’t see very often.
Most Recent Quarterbacks to Throw 30+ TDs for Each NFL Team
via Instagram (@patrickmahomes)
Throwing 30+ touchdowns in a season is quite the accomplishment for any quarterback – no matter how old they are, what team they play on, what style of offense they play in, or how long they’ve been a starter in the NFL. It’s something fans wish they could witness more often, but you’d be shocked at how rare it is.
For example, the 2022 regular season ended with just four quarterbacks throwing at least 30 touchdowns – which is very low, considering there are 32 teams in the NFL and there were more than 39 quarterbacks who started at least 10 games last season. Only 10% of those 39 quarterbacks threw 30+ touchdowns.
What’s even more surprising is the fact that there have only been 149 instances in the history of the NFL where a quarterback has thrown at least 30 touchdowns in a single season – only 149! To honor those that have done it, let’s take a look at every NFL team’s most recent QB to throw 30+ TDs in a season.
1. Arizona Cardinals – Carson Palmer (2015)
Most TD passes in season, Cardinals history Carson Palmer 30 (2015) Kurt Warner 30 (2008)
Carson Palmer finished the 2015 season with 4,671 yards (career-high), 35 touchdowns (career-high), and 11 interceptions in 16 games played – he led the Arizona Cardinals to a 13-3-0 record that season. The only other Cardinals’ quarterback to throw for at least 30 touchdowns in a season was Kurt Warner, who finished the 2008 season with 30 touchdowns. Will Kyler Murray become the third QB to do so?
Matt Ryan finished the 2018 season with 4,924 yards, 35 touchdowns, and 7 interceptions in 16 games played – he led the Atlanta Falcons to a 7-9-0 record that season. He also threw 38 TDs in 2016 and 32 TDs in 2012. The only other Falcons’ quarterback to throw for at least 30 touchdowns in a season was Steve Bartkowski, who did so twice – he had 31 touchdowns in 1980 and 30 touchdowns in 1981.
Lamar Jackson finished the 2019 season with 3,127 yards (career-high), 36 touchdowns (career-high; led NFL), and 6 interceptions in 15 games played – he led the Ravens to a 13-2-0 record that season. The only other Ravens’ quarterback to throw at least 30 touchdowns in a single season was Vinny Testaverde, who threw 33 touchdowns in 16 games played during the 1996 season.
Josh Allen finished the 2022 season with 4,283 yards, 35 touchdowns, and 14 interceptions in 16 games played – he led the Buffalo Bills to a 13-3-0 record last year. It was his third consecutive year throwing at least 30 touchdowns – he had 36 touchdowns in 2021 and 37 touchdowns in 2020. The only other Buffalo Bills’ quarterback to throw at least 30 touchdowns was Jim Kelly – who had 33 touchdowns in 1991.
Cam Newton finished the 2015 season with 3,837 yards, 35 touchdowns (career-high), and 10 interceptions in 16 games played – he led the Carolina Panthers to a 15-1-0 record that season. The only other Panthers’ quarterback to do so was Steve Beuerlein, who threw 36 touchdowns during the 1999 season. Will Bryce Young be the next Panthers’ quarterback to throw at least 30 touchdowns? We’ll see!
6. Chicago Bears – NONE
To celebrate Earth Day, the Chicago Bears are doing their part by recycling garbage quarterbacks! pic.twitter.com/T8jzkOaaAr
Those who know the history of the Chicago Bears will not be surprised to learn that they’ve never had a quarterback throw at least 30 touchdowns in a single season. They’ve had a couple quarterbacks come close – including Erik Kramer (29 TDs in 1995), Jay Cutler (28 TDs in 2014 and 27 TDs 2009), and Sid Luckman (28 TDs in 1943). Will Justin Fields be the first quarterback to join this list? We shall see!
Joe Burrow finished the 2022 season with 4,475 yards, 35 touchdowns (career-high), and 12 interceptions in 16 games played – he led the Cincinnati Bengals to a 12-4-0 record that season. He also threw for 34 touchdowns during the 2021 season. The only other quarterbacks to throw at least 30 touchdowns in a single season were Andy Dalton (33 TDs in 2013) and Carson Palmer (32 TDs in 2005).
Brian Sipe finished the 1980 season with 4,132 yards (career-high), 30 touchdowns (career-high), and 14 interceptions in 16 games played – he led the Cleveland Browns to an 11-5-0 record that season. He’s the only Browns’ quarterback to do so, but Derek Anderson came close with 29 touchdowns in 2007 and Frank Ryan had 28 touchdowns in 1966. Many people believe Deshaun Watson will join this list in 2023.
Dak Prescott finished the 2021 season with 4,449 yards, 37 touchdowns (career-high), and 10 interceptions in 16 games played – he led the Dallas Cowboys to an 11-5-0 record that season. He also threw 30 touchdowns during the 2019 season. The only other quarterback to throw at least 30 TDs in a single season is Tony Romo, who did it four times (36 in 2007, 34 in 2014, 31 in 2011, and 31 in 2013).
Peyton Manning finished the 2014 season with 4,727 yards, 39 touchdowns, and 15 interceptions in 16 games played – he led the Denver Broncos to a 12-4-0 record that season. He threw at least 30 TDs three times with the Broncos and another six times. No other quarterback has ever thrown at least 30 touchdowns in a single season, but Jake Plummer (2004) and John Elway (1997) each had 27 TDs.
Matthew Stafford finished the 2015 season with 4,262 yards, 32 touchdowns, and 13 interceptions in 16 games played – he led the Detroit Lions to a 7-9-0 record that season. He also threw 41 touchdowns while with the Lions in 2011. The only other Lions’ quarterback to throw at least 30 touchdowns in a season was Scott Mitchell, who threw 32 TDs in 1995. Jared Goff came close in 2022 with 29 TDs.
Aaron Rodgers finished the 2021 season with 4,115 yards, 37 touchdowns, and 4 interceptions in 16 games played – he led the Green Bay Packers to a 13-3-0 record that season. He threw at least 30 TDs eight times while with the Packers. The only other Packers’ quarterbacks to throw at least 30 touchdowns in a single season were Brett Favre (who did it eight times) and Lynn Dickey (who did it in 1983).
13. Houston Texans – Deshaun Watson (2020)
https://www.instagram.com/p/CAZOuCBBd8Q/
Deshaun Watson finished the 2020 season with 4,823 yards (career-high; led NFL), 33 touchdowns, and 7 interceptions – he led the Houston Texans to a 4-12-0 record that season. To date, he’s the only Texans’ quarterback to throw at least 30 touchdowns in a single season. Matt Schaub came close with 29 TDs in 2009. Between Schaub and Watson, no other Texans’ QB has thrown more than 20 TDs in a season.
Andrew Luck finished the 2018 season with 4,593 yards, 39 touchdowns, and 15 interceptions in 16 games played – he led the Indianapolis Colts to a 10-6-0 record that season. He also threw for 40 TDs during the 2014 season and 31 touchdowns during hte 2016 season. The only other Colts’ quarterbacks to throw at least 30 TDs in a season were Peyton Manning (six times) and Johnny Unitas (1959).
Blake Bortles finished the 2015 season with 4,428 yards (career-high), 35 touchdowns (career-high), and 18 interceptions (led NFL) – he led the Jacksonville Jaguars to a 5-11-0 record that season. To date, he’s the only Jaguars’ quarterback to throw at least 30 touchdowns in a single season. In fact, the next closest QB was Trevor Lawrence – who finished the 2022 season with 25 TDs. Is he next up?
Patrick Mahomes finished the 2022 season with 5,250 yards (career-high, led NFL), 41 touchdowns (led NFL), and 12 interceptions – he led the Kansas City Chiefs to a 14-3-0 record last year. He also threw for 37 TDs in 2021, 38 TDs in 2020, and 50 TDs in 2018. The only other Chiefs’ quarterback to throw at least 30 touchdowns in a single season was Len Dawson, who threw 30 TDs in 1964 – he had 29 TDs in 1962.
Derek Carr finished the 2015 season with 3,987 yards, 32 touchdowns (career-high), and 13 interceptions in 16 games played – he led the then-Oakland (now-Las Vegas) Raiders to a 7-9-0 record that season. The only other Raiders’ quarterback to throw at least 30 touchdowns in a single season was Daryle Lamonica – who threw 30 touchdowns in 1967 and 34 touchdowns in 1969. Who will be next?
Justin Herbert finished the 2021 season with 5,014 yards (career-high), 38 touchdowns (career-high), and 15 interceptions in 17 games played – he led the Los Angeles Chargers to a 9-8-0 record that year. He also threw 31 touchdowns as a rookie in 2020. The only other Chargers’ quarterbacks to throw at least 30 touchdowns in a season were Philip Rivers (who did it six times) and Dan Fouts (who did it twice).
Matthew Stafford finished the 2021 season with 4,886 yards, 41 touchdowns (career-high), and 17 interceptions (led NFL) in 17 games played – he led the Los Angeles Rams to a 12-5-0 record that season. There have been four other Rams’ quarterbacks to throw at least 30 touchdowns in a single season – Jared Goff had 32 in 2018, Jim Everett had 31 in 1988, Vince Ferragamo had 30 in 1980, and Kurt Warner did it twice.
20. Miami Dolphins – Dan Marino (1994)
OTD in 1994: Dolphins Dan Marino becomes second quarterback to throw for 300 touchdowns in a 39-35 victory over the New England #Patriots. pic.twitter.com/bkKNKPJlmh
Dan Marino finished the 1994 season with 4,453 yards, 30 touchdowns, and 17 interceptions in 16 games played – he led the Miami Dolphins to a 10-6-0 record that season. He also threw for 48 TDs in 1984, 30 TDs in 1985, and 44 TDs in 1986. No other Dolphins’ quarterback has ever thrown at least 30 touchdowns in a single season, but Ryan Tannehill had 27 in 2014 and Tua Tagovailova had 25 in 2022.
Kirk Cousins finished the 2021 season with 4,221 yards, 33 touchdowns, and 7 interceptions in 16 games played – he led the Minnesota Vikings to an 8-8-0 record that season. He also threw 35 TDs in 2020 and 30 TDs in 2018. There have been four other Vikings’ quarterbacks to throw at least 30 TDs in a season – Daunte Culpepper (2004, 2000), Brett Favre (2009), Warren Moon (1995), and Randall Cunningham (1998).
Tom Brady finished the 2017 season with 4,577 yards (led NFL), 32 touchdowns, and 8 interceptions in 16 games played – he led the New England Patriots to a 13-3-0 record that season. He threw at least 30 touchdowns in seven different seasons with the Patriots. The only other Patriots’ quarterback to do so was Babe Parilli – who threw 31 touchdowns with the Boston Patriots in 1964. Will Mac Jones join the list?
Drew Brees finished the 2018 season with 3,992 yards, 32 touchdowns, and 5 interceptions in 15 games played – he led the New Orleans Saints to a 13-2-0 record that season. To date, Brees is the only Saints’ quarterback to throw at least 30 touchdowns in a single season – he did so a whopping 10 times, including 46 touchdowns in 2011 and 43 touchdowns in 2012. Aaron Brooks came close with 27 in 2002.
Eli Manning finished the 2015 season with 4,432 yards, 35 touchdowns (career-high), and 14 interceptions in 16 games played – he led the New York Giants to a 6-10-0 record that season. He also threw 31 touchdowns in 2010 and 30 touchdowns in 2014. The only other Giants’ quarterback to throw at least 30 touchdowns in a single season was Y.A. Tittle – who had 33 TDs in 1962 and 36 TDs in 1963.
Ryan Fitzpatrick finished the 2015 season with 3,905 yards (career-high), 31 touchdowns (career-high), and 15 interceptions in 16 games played – he led the New York Jets to a 10-6-0 record that season. To date, he’s the only Jets’ quarterback to throw at least 30 touchdowns in a single season. Vinny Testaverde came close with 29 touchdowns in 1998, while Joe Namath had 26 touchdowns in 1967.
Carson Wentz finished the 2017 season with 3,296 yards, 33 touchdowns (career-high), and 7 interceptions in 13 games played – he led the Philadelphia Eagles to an 11-2-0 record that season. There are three other Eagles’ quarterbacks who threw at least 30 touchdowns in a single season – Randall Cunningham had 30 in 1990, Donovan McNabb had 31 in 2004, and Sonny Jurgensen had 32 in 1961.
27. Pittsburgh Steelers – Ben Roethlisberger (2020)
— BlitzburghUSAVideos (@sdextrasmedia) March 9, 2021
Ben Roethlisberger finished the 2020 season with 3,803 yards, 33 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions in 15 games played – he led the Steelers to a 12-3-0 record that season. During his 18-year career in Pitt, he threw at least 30 TDs four times. No other Steelers’ quarterback has thrown at least 30 touchdowns in a single season, but Terry Bradshaw came close with 28 in 1978. Will Kenny Pickett join the list this year?
— 49ers Throwback ❤💛 (@49ers_Throwback) July 27, 2023
Jeff Garcia finished the 2001 season with 3,538 yards, 32 touchdowns (career-high), and 12 interceptions in 16 games played – he led the San Francisco 49ers to a 12-4-0 record that season. He also threw 31 touchdowns with the 49ers in 2000. Three other 49ers’ quarterbacks threw at least 30 TDs in a season – including Joe Montana in 1987, John Brodie in 1965, and Steve Young in 1994 and 1998.
Geno Smith finished the 2022 season with 4,282 yards (career-high), 30 touchdowns (career-high), and 11 interceptions in 17 games played – he led the Seattle Seahawks to a 9-8-0 record that season. Two other Seahawks’ quarterbacks threw at least 30 touchdowns in a single season – Russell Wilson did it five times during his time with the team, while Dave Krieg threw 32 touchdowns during the 1984 season.
Tom Brady finished the 2021 season with 5,316 yards (career-high; led NFL), 43 touchdowns (led NFL), and 12 interceptions in 17 games played – he led the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to a 13-4-0 record that season. He also threw 40 touchdowns with the Bucs in 2020. The only other Buccaneers’ quarterback to throw at least 30 touchdowns in a single season was Jameis Winston, who threw 33 TDs in 2019.
Ryan Tannehill finished the 2020 season with 3,819 yards, 33 touchdowns (career-high), and 7 interceptions in 16 games played – he led the Tennessee Titans to an 11-5-0 record that season. Two other Titans’ quarterbacks threw at least 30 touchdowns in a single season – Warren Moon threw 33 touchdowns during the 1990 season and George Blanda threw 36 touchdowns in the 1961 season.
32. Washington Commanders – Sonny Jurgensen (1967)
Sonny Jurgensen, 1967. That season Jurgensen led the NFL in passing attempts, completions, yards and TD passes. #HTTRpic.twitter.com/hgdT2DjPzS
Sonny Jurgensen finished the 1967 season with 3,747 yards (career-high; led NFL), 31 touchdowns (led NFL), and 16 interceptions in 14 games played – he led the Washington Commanders to a 5-6-3 record that season. No other Commanders’ quarterback has ever thrown at least 30 touchdowns in a season, but both Kirk Cousins and Joe Theismann each had 29 TDs and Mark Rypien had 28 touchdowns.
Which Quarterbacks Will Throw for 30+ TDs in 2023?
With the 2023 NFL regular season less than a month away, which quarterbacks do you think will throw at least 30 touchdowns this year? We can almost expect Patrick Mahomes, Joe Burrow, and Josh Allen to get there with ease – as they did the past two seasons – but what other quarterbacks might do it?
Will Aaron Rodgers avenge his mere 26 touchdowns from last season? Will Geno Smith pull through for the Seattle Seahawks like he did last year? We also can’t forget about Matthew Stafford, Kirk Cousins, Dak Prescott, and Justin Herbert – all of whom had at least 30 touchdowns during the 2021 season.
Some other names to keep an eye on include Russell Wilson and Deshaun Watson (both of whom threw at least 30 touchdowns in 2020). Jared Goff threw for 29 touchdowns last season, while Derek Carr, Jalen Hurts, Trevor Lawrence, and Tua Tagovailova each had at least 20 touchdowns in 2022.
Passing Touchdown Leaders Against Each NFL Team — How Many Can You Guess Correctly?
There’s nothing more frustrating than watching an opposing/rival quarterback dominate your favorite NFL team on an annual basis. As a lifelong, diehard Buffalo Bills’ fan, it’s something I had to sit through for 20 years when Tom Brady was with the New England Patriots and let me be the first to tell you – it’s not fun.
It’s a feeling is something every NFL fan can relate to. It’s no secret that certain quarterbacks tend to ‘turn it up a notch’ against certain NFL teams and it usually happens against one of their divisional opponents – which makes sense, considering they see that NFL team twice in the regular season every single year.
Of course, that got me wondering – which quarterbacks have the most passing touchdowns against each NFL team? It’s a list that contains a lot of obvious names – the quarterbacks who played long enough to accumulate a history against certain teams – but I was also surprised to see some of the QBs on that list.
Which QBs Have the Most Passing Touchowns vs. Each NFL Team?
via Shutterstock (Alexey Stiop)
Did you know that Tom Brady threw 60 touchdowns against the New York Jets in his legendary 23-year career? What about Brett Favre throwing 60 touchdowns against the Chicago Bears? Or Aaron Rodgers’ 54 touchdowns against the Detroit Lions? Or Dan Marino’s 50 touchdowns against the Buffalo Bills?
We can all agree that those numbers are breathtaking, right? I mean, most quarterbacks won’t throw that many touchdowns in their career, let alone against one NFL team. Then again, it’s what we’ve come to expect from those that stick around long enough – eventually, you’ll start to figure certain teams out.
What makes those numbers even more mindblowing is that they all share one thing in common – none of them will go down as the all-time leader in passing TDs against that NFL team. Not Brady’s 60 TDs vs. the Jets, Favre’s 60 TDs vs. the Bears, Rodgers’ 54 TDs vs. the Lions, or Marino’s 50 TDs vs. the Bills.
That brings us to our next burning question – if you had to guess who the all-time leader was in passing touchdowns against each NFL team, how many do you think you would get right? Don’t worry, we’re going to find out!
Career Stats vs. Cardinals:371/595, 4,428 yards, 32 touchdowns, 9 interceptions (20 games; 11-8-1 record)
Russell Wilson has played against the Arizona Cardinals 20 times (11-8-1 record) over the past 11 years. He has completed 371 of his 595 pass attempts for 4,428 yards, 32 touchdowns, and 9 interceptions. His 32 touchdowns are the most against the Cardinals in franchise history, but it’s not the most touchdowns he has against a single NFL team – he has thrown 36 touchdowns against the 49ers.
2. Atlanta Falcons – Drew Brees (54 TDs)
Drew Brees broke Dan Marino’s record that stood for 27 years on this TD pass against the #Falcons in 2011. The #Saints QB finished with 5,476 passing yards on the season, yet didn’t win MVP. pic.twitter.com/LChazhA1wE
Career Stats vs. Falcons: 772/1,129, 8,695 yards, 54 touchdowns, 27 interceptions (29 games; 19-10 record)
Drew Brees threw 54 touchdowns in 29 games against the Atlanta Falcons over his 20-year career. His first TD came in a 20-21 loss on October 17, 2004, while his last TD came in a 26-18 win on November 28, 2019. Of his 29 games against the Falcons, he threw at least one TD in all but three of those games and had at least three TDs in eight of them – his career-high was four TDs, which he accomplished twice.
3. Baltimore Ravens – Ben Roethlisberger (43 TDs)
OTD in 2014: QB Ben Roethlisberger throws for 6 TD’s against the division rival Baltimore Ravens to complete the 43-23 win on Sunday Night Football. #Steelers#NFL@_BigBen7pic.twitter.com/NAA1lbfbQE
Career Stats vs. Ravens: 598/971, 6,643 yards, 43 touchdowns, 25 interceptions (27 games; 17-10 record)
Ben Roethlisberger threw 43 touchdowns in 27 games against the Baltimore Ravens over his 18-year career. His first TD came in a 13-30 loss on September 19, 2004, while his last TD came in a 16-13 OT win on January 9, 2022. Of his 27 games against the Ravens, he threw at least one TD in all but three of them, at least two TDs in 11 of them, and a career-high six TDs in a 43-23 win on November 2, 2014.
4. Buffalo Bills – Tom Brady (72 TDs)
September 20, 2015
Patriots defeat the Bills (40-32) in Buffalo behind Tom Brady
Career Stats vs. Bills: 769/1,200, 9,032 yards, 72 touchdowns, 25 interceptions (36 games; 33-3 record)
Tom Brady threw 72 touchdowns in 36 games against the Buffalo Bills over his 23-year career. His first TD against the Bills came in a 21-11 win on November 11, 2001 and his final TD came in a 33-27 OT win on December 12, 2021. Of his 36 games against the Bills, he threw at least one TD in all but six of them, at least three TDs in 12 of them, and a career-high five TDs in a 56-10 blowout on November 18, 2007.
Career Stats vs. Panthers: 737/1,083, 7,949 yards, 55 touchdowns, 21 interceptions (28 games; 17-11 record)
Drew Brees threw 55 touchdowns in 28 games against the Carolina Panthers during his 20-year career. His first TD in an 18-21 loss on October 1, 2006, while his last TD came in a 33-7 victory on January 3, 2021. Of his 28 games against the Panthers, he threw at least one TD in all but five of them, at least three TDs in 11 of them, and a career-high five TDs against the Panthers in a 45-17 win on January 1, 2012.
6. Chicago Bears – Aaron Rodgers (64 TDs)
Throwback to Aaron Rodgers' historic 6 TD 1st half against the Bears.
Career Stats vs. Bears: 611/908, 6,965 yards, 64 touchdowns, 10 interceptions (29 games; 24-5 record)
Aaron Rodgers has thrown 64 touchdowns in 29 games against the Chicago Bears over his 18-year career. His first TD vs. the Bears came in a 37-3 victory on November 16, 2008 and his final TD came in a 28-19 win on December 4, 2022. Of his 29 games against the Bears, he has thrown at least one TD in all but four of them, at least 4 TDs in seven of them, and a career-high 6 TDs in a 55-14 win on Nov. 9, 2014.
7. Cincinnati Bengals – Ben Roethlisberger (47 TDs)
— BlitzburghUSAVideos (@sdextrasmedia) June 17, 2020
Career Stats vs. Bengals: 735/1,170, 8,394 yards, 47 touchdowns, 34 interceptions (34 games; 24-10 record)
Ben Roethlisberger threw 47 touchdowns in 34 games against the Cincinnati Bengals over his 18-year career. His first TD vs. the Bengals came in a 28-17 win on October 3, 2004, while his final TD vs. the team came in a 10-41 loss on November 28, 2021. Of his 34 games against the Bengals, he threw at least one TD in all but four of them and had a career-high four TDs in a 36-10 win on Nov. 15, 2020.
8. Cleveland Browns – Ben Roethlisberger (43 TDs)
Ben Roethlisberger has 40 career TD passes against the #Browns. Here is his first one. Sunday Oct 10, 2004 at Heinz Field. Gus Johnson with the call.
Career Stats vs. Browns: 543/874, 6,896 yards, 43 touchdowns, 23 interceptions (29 games; 26-2-1 record)
Ben Roethlisberger threw 43 touchdowns in 29 games against the Cleveland Browns over his 18-year career. His first TD vs. the Browns came in a 34-23 win on October 10, 2004 and his final TD came in a 26-14 win on January 3, 2022. Of his 29 games against the team, he threw at least one TD in all but five of them, at least two TDs in 13 of them, and a career-high four TDs in a 34-7 win on September 9, 2007.
9. Dallas Cowboys – Eli Manning (53 TDs)
Throwback to Week 17 in 2011
Giants v. Cowboys with the winner going to the playoffs and the loser staying home
Career Stats vs. Cowboys: 655/1,047, 7,560 yards, 53 touchdowns, 29 interceptions (30 games; 13-17 record)
Eli Manning threw 53 touchdowns in 30 games against the Dallas Cowboys over his 16-year career in the NFL. His first TD vs. the Cowboys came in a 28-24 win on January 2, 2005 and his final TD came in a 17-35 loss on September 8, 2019. Of his 30 games against the team, he threw at least one TD in all but six of them and had at least four TDs in three of them – once in 2007, once in 2010, and once in 2013.
10. Denver Broncos – Philip Rivers (46 TDs)
Philip Rivers is the first QB to throw for 2 Pass TD against the Broncos this season. pic.twitter.com/EdderaKUzV
Career Stats vs. Broncos: 564/909, 6,732 yards, 46 touchdowns, 30 interceptions (29 games; 13-16 record)
Philip Rivers threw 46 touchdowns in 29 games against the Denver Broncos over his 17-year career in the NFL. His first TD vs. the Broncos came in a 35-27 win on November 19, 2006 and his final TD came in a 20-23 loss on December 1, 2019. Of his 29 games against the team, he threw at least one TD in all but four of those games and had a career-high four TDs in a 35-14 victory on November 22, 2010.
11. Detroit Lions – Brett Favre (58 TDs)
Here’s Brett Favre’s 442nd TD pass with the #Packers.
It came during a week 17 win in 2007 versus the Lions at home. Favre to Bubba Franks.
14 years later, Aaron Rodgers has a chance to break Favre’s record at Lambeau Field… on Christmas Day…. and hold the franchise record. pic.twitter.com/ffYEDg0XQE
Career Stats vs. Lions: 775/1,217, 8,954 yards, 58 touchdowns, 39 interceptions (35 games; 26-9 record)
Brett Favre threw 58 touchdowns in 35 games against the Detroit Lions over his 20-year career in the NFL. His first TD vs. the Lions came in a 27-13 win on November 1, 1992 and his final TD came in a 24-10 win on September 26, 2010. Of his 35 games against the team, he threw at least one TD in all but five of them, at least three TDs in seven of them, and a career-high 4 TDs in a 28-18 win on Nov. 3, 1996.
12. Green Bay Packers – Matthew Stafford (40 TDs)
With his TD pass today, @Lions QB Matthew Stafford has passed Hall of Fame Johnny Unitas (34) for the most-career TD passes against the Packers in NFL history.#OnePridepic.twitter.com/T2rgSMdai4
Career Stats vs. Packers: 485/793, 5,976 yards, 40 touchdowns, 21 interceptions (21 games; 7-14 record)
Matthew Stafford has thrown 40 touchdowns in 21 games against the Green Bay Packers over his 14-year career. His first TD vs. the Packers came in a 12-34 loss on November 26, 2009 and his final TD came in a 28-36 loss on November 28, 2021. Of his 21 games against the team, he has thrown at least one TD in all but two of them and had a career-high 5 TDs against them in a 41-45 loss on Jan. 1, 2012.
13. Houston Texans – Peyton Manning (48 TDs)
Peyton Manning has thrown at least 4 TD passes passes against all 32 NFL teams, including career-best 48 vs Texans. pic.twitter.com/QoO6g0tMtS
Career Stats vs. Texans: 510/745, 5,852 yards, 48 touchdowns, 8 interceptions (20 games; 17-3 record)
Peyton Manning threw 48 touchdowns in 20 games against the Houston Texans over his 17-year career in the NFL. His first TD vs. the Texans came in a 23-3 win on September 22, 2002 and his final TD came in a 37-13 win on December 22, 2013. Of his 20 games against them, he threw at least one TD in every single one, at least two TDs in 16 of them, and a career-high five TDs in a 49-14 win on Nov. 14, 2004.
14. Indianapolis Colts – Dan Marino (54 TDs)
Week 15 great performances: December 9, 1984 QB Dan Marino throws for 404 yards & 4 TD’s in 35-17 win at Colts . pic.twitter.com/NwIC7Spd74
Career Stats vs. Colts: 624/1,030, 7,537 yards, 54 touchdowns, 17 interceptions (33 games; 22-11 record)
Dan Marino threw 54 touchdowns in 33 games against the Indianapolis Colts over his 17-year career in the NFL. His first TD vs. the Colts came in a 21-7 win on October 23, 1983 and his final TD came in a 34-37 win on December 5, 1999. Of his 33 games against the team, he threw at least one TD in all but five of them, at least two TDs in 17 of them, and a career-high four TDs on two occasions (1984, 1995).
Peyton Manning throws a 35 yard TD pass to Reggie Wayne, which would help the Colts edge out the Jaguars 14-12 in the 1st week of the season. pic.twitter.com/CLpHI5yCHO
Career Stats vs. Jaguars: 462/710, 5,538 yards, 40 touchdowns, 14 interceptions (20 games; 15-5 record)
Peyton Manning threw 40 touchdowns in 20 games against the Jacksonville Jaguars over his 17-year career in the NFL. His first TD vs. the Jaguars came in a 43-14 win on September 25, 2000 and his final TD came in a 35-19 win on October 13, 2013. Of his 20 games against them, he threw at least one TD in all but two of them, at least two TDs in 13 of them, and four TDs in three of them (2000, 2007, 2009).
Career Stats vs. Chiefs: 630/1,011, 7,504 yards, 41 touchdowns, 39 interceptions (29 games; 14-15 record)
Philip Rivers threw 41 touchdowns in 29 games against the Kansas City Chiefs over his 17-year career in the NFL. His first TD vs. the Chiefs came in a 24-17 win on January 2, 2005 and his final TD came in a 21-31 loss on December 29, 2019. Of his 29 games against the team, he threw at least one TD in 21 of them, at least two TDs in 16 of them, and three TDs in four of them (2009, twice in 2013, and 2018).
17. Las Vegas Raiders – Philip Rivers (49 TDs)
Philip Rivers throws a TD pass to the right team this time
Career Stats vs. Raiders: 603/934, 7,347 yards, 49 touchdowns, 22 interceptions (29 games; 19-10 record)
Philip Rivers threw 49 touchdowns in 29 games against the Las Vegas Raiders over his 17-year career in the NFL. His first TD vs. the Raiders came in a 27-0 win on September 11, 2006 and his final TD came in a 44-27 win on December 13, 2020. Of his 29 games against the team, he threw at least one TD in all but three of them, at least two TDs in 16 of them, and four TDs in a 31-34 loss on October 9, 2016.
Career Stats vs. Chargers: 548/939, 6,548 yards, 38 touchdowns, 36 interceptions (31 games; 21-10 record)
John Elway threw 38 touchdowns in 31 games against the Los Angeles Chargers over his 16-year career in the NFL. His first TD vs. the Chargers came in a 30-24 OT win on November 17, 1985 and his final TD came in a 31-16 win on November 29, 1998. Of his 31 games against the team, he threw at least one TD in 17 of them and four TDs in three of them – one in 1996, one in 1997, and one in 1998.
Career Stats vs. Rams: 388/707, 5,439 yards, 39 touchdowns, 32 interceptions (26 games; 16-9-1 record)
Johnny Unitas threw 39 touchdowns in 26 games against the Los Angeles Rams over his 18-year career in the NFL. His first TD vs. the Rams came in a 56-21 win on November 25, 1956 and his final TD came in a 20-27 loss on September 21, 1969. Of his 26 games against the team, he threw at least one TD in 19 of them, at least two TDs in 12 of them, and a career-high 4 TDs in a 30-27 win on September 16, 1962.
20. Miami Dolphins – Tom Brady (72 TDs)
October 21, 2007
Tom Brady throws 5 TD’s in the 1st half and the Patriots go on to demolish the Dolphins (49-28)
Brady now has humongous 27 TD passes thru 7 games, still an NFL record 15 years later pic.twitter.com/SlAFvXC9oK
Career Stats vs. Dolphins: 717/1,170, 8,596 yards, 72 touchdowns, 27 interceptions (36 games; 24-12 record)
Tom Brady threw 72 touchdowns in 36 games against the Miami Dolphins over his 23-year career in the NFL. His first TD vs. the Dolphins came in a 20-13 win on December 22, 2001 and his final TD came in a 45-17 win on October 10, 2021. Of his 36 games against the team, he threw at least one TD in all but four of them, at least two TDs in 22 of them, and a career-high six TDs in a 49-28 win on October 21, 2007.
21. Minnesota Vikings – Aaron Rodgers (57 TDs)
Rodgers to Tonyan for TD! 💪
The Packers have had their way with the Vikings in the first half, leading 24-3 after this Aaron Rodgers scoring strike to tight end Robert Tonyan.
Career Stats vs. Vikings: 624/917, 7,157 yards, 57 touchdowns, 8 interceptions (29 games; 17-11-1 record)
Aaron Rodgers has thrown 57 touchdowns in 29 games against the Minnesota Vikings over his 18-year career. His first TD vs. the Vikings came in a 24-19 win on September 8, 2008 and his final TD came in a 41-17 win on January 1, 2023. Of his 29 games against them, he threw at least one TD in all but five of them, at least two TDs in 17 of them, and four TDs in six of them (2010, 2011, 2012, 2016, 2020, 2021).
22. New England Patriots – Peyton Manning (43 TDs)
Career Stats vs. Patriots: 453/723, 5,316 yards, 43 touchdowns, 26 interceptions (19 games; 6-13 record)
Peyton Manning threw 43 touchdowns in 19 games against the New England Patriots during his 17-year career. His first TD vs. the Patriots came in a 6-29 loss on September 13, 1998 and final TD came in a 21-43 loss on November 2, 2014. Of his 19 games against them, he had at least one TD in all of them, at least two TDs in 14 of them, and four TDs in three of them – one in 2003, one in 2009, and one in 2010.
23. New Orleans Saints – Matt Ryan (47 TDs)
RYAN TO GRAHAM FOR A TD! Falcons TE Jaeden Graham scores his first career TD on a strike from Matt Ryan. Falcons trail the saints 7-6 after a missed extra point as their kicking woes continue.#InBrotherhood#ATLvsNOpic.twitter.com/HW8SKT3iLC
Career Stats vs. Saints: 659/1,021, 7,912 yards, 47 touchdowns, 19 interceptions (27 games; 10-17 record)
Matt Ryan threw 47 touchdowns in 27 games against the New Orleans Saints over his 15-year career in the NFL. His first TD vs. the Saints came in a 34-20 win on November 9, 2008 and final TD came in a 20-30 loss on January 9, 2022. Of his 27 games against the team, he had at least one TD in all but two of them, at least two TDs in 15 of them, and a career-high five TDs in a 37-43 OT loss on Sept. 23, 2018.
Career Stats vs. Giants: 386/572, 4,639 yards, 41 touchdowns, 21 interceptions (20 games; 11-9 record)
Tony Romo threw 41 touchdowns in 20 games against the New York Giants over his 13-year career in the NFL. His first TD vs. the Giants came in a 22-36 loss on October 23, 2006 and final TD came in a 27-26 win on September 13, 2015. Of his 20 games against the team, he had at least one TD in all but four of them, at least two TDs in 13 of them, and four TDs in four of them – twice in 2007, 2011, and 2014.
Career Stats vs. Jets: 656/1,125, 8,651 yards, 72 touchdowns, 36 interceptions (30 games; 17-13 record)
Dan Marino threw 72 touchdowns in 30 games against the New York Jets over his 17-year career in the NFL. His first TD vs. the Jets came in a 32-14 win on October 16, 1983 and final TD came in a 31-38 loss on December 27, 1999. Of his 30 games against the team, he threw at least one TD in all but two of them, at least two TDs in 22 of them, and a career-high six TDs in a 45-51 OT loss on Sept. 21, 1986.
Career Stats vs. Eagles: 670/1,129, 7,994 yards, 54 touchdowns, 34 interceptions (31 games; 10-21 record)
Eli Manning threw 54 touchdowns in 31 games against the Philadelphia Eagles over his 16-year career in the NFL. His first TD vs. the Eagles came in a 27-17 win on November 20, 2005 and his final TD came in a 17-23 OT loss on December 9, 2019. Of his 31 games against them, he threw at least one TD in 25 of them, at least two TDs in 15 of them, and a career-high five TDs in a 42-7 win on December 30, 2012.
27. Pittsburgh Steelers – Tom Brady (30 TDs)
Week 1 Patriots 33 Steelers 3
Patriots start their title defense with a bang and Tom Brady throws 3 TD including 2 to Phillip Dorsett and the Steelers look lost. pic.twitter.com/EZisWLCXrD
Career Stats vs. Steelers: 334/489, 3,897 yards, 30 touchdowns, 5 interceptions (13 games; 9-4 record)
Tom Brady threw 30 touchdowns in 13 games against the Pittsburgh Steelers over his 23-year career in the NFL. His first TD vs. the Steelers came in a 30-14 win on September 9, 2002 and his final TD came in an 18-20 loss on October 16, 2022. Of his 13 games against the team, he threw at least one TD in all but one of them, at least two TDs in nine of them, and four TDs in three of them (2007, 2013, and 2015).
Career Stats vs. 49ers: 397/728, 5,725 yards, 40 touchdowns, 25 interceptions (28 games; 18-10 record)
Johnny Unitas threw 40 touchdowns in 28 games against the San Francisco 49ers over his 18-year career in the NFL. His first TD vs. the 49ers came in a 17-30 loss on December 16, 1956 and his final TD came in a 17-20 loss on November 16, 1969. Of his 28 games against the team, he threw at least one TD in all but four of them, at least two TDs in nine of them, and four TDs in two of them (1965 and 1966).
— Old Time Football 🏈 (@Ol_TimeFootball) July 29, 2023
Career Stats vs. Seahawks: 547/957, 7,013 yards, 44 touchdowns, 27 interceptions (30 games; 20-10 record)
John Elway threw 44 touchdowns in 30 games against the Seattle Seahawks over his 16-year career in the NFL. His first TD vs. the Seahawks came in a 19-27 win on November 6, 1983 and his final TD came in a 28-21 win on December 27, 1998. Of his 30 games against the team, he threw at least one TD in all but six of them, at least two TDs in 13 of them, and four TDs in three of them – 1987, 1989, and 1998).
30. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Drew Brees (61 TDs)
¡TOUCHDOWN!
Drew Brees lanza su primer pase de TD a Alvin Kamara. Se empata el partido entre los @Saints y @Buccaneers
Career Stats vs. Buccaneers: 745/1,083, 8,248 yards, 61 touchdowns, 27 interceptions (30 games; 20-10 record)
Drew Brees threw 61 touchdowns in 30 games against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers over his 20-year career in the NFL. His first TD vs. the Bucs came in a 31-24 win on December 12, 2004 and his final TD came in a 38-3 win on November 8, 2020. Of those 30 games, he threw at least one TD in all but one of them, at least two TDs in 18 of them, and and four TDs in four of them (twice in 2012, 2013, and 2020).
Career Stats vs. Titans: 448/638, 4,956 yards, 35 touchdowns, 13 interceptions (19 games; 14-5 record)
Peyton Manning threw 35 touchdowns in 19 games against the Tennessee Titans over his 17-year career in the NFL. His first TD vs. the Titans came in a 15-23 loss on November 3, 2002 and his final TD came in a 51-28 win on December 8, 2013. Of his 19 games against the team, he threw at least one TD in all but two of them, at least two TDs in 11 of them, and four TDs in two of them (2005 and 2013).
32. Washington Commanders- Charlie Conerly (38 TDs)
"Chucking" Charlie Conerly. Giants QB 1948-1961. 1948 rookie of the year. 3X NFL Champ 1956,1958-59. NFL MVP 1959. pic.twitter.com/V6InsGA2AM
Career Stats vs. Commanders: 261/474, 3,416 yards, 38 touchdowns, 33 interceptions (26 games; 19-6-1 record)
Charlie Conerly threw 38 touchdowns in 26 games against the Washington Commanders over his 14-year career in the NFL. His first TD vs. the Commanders came in a 21-28 loss on December 12, 1948 and his final TD came in a 24-21 win on October 1, 1961. Of his 26 games against the team, he threw at least one TD in 22 of them, two TDs in 10 of them, and four TDs in a 51-21 win on October 10, 1954.
Which NFL Team Has Thrown the Most Passing Touchdowns Since 1966?
Now that we know which quarterbacks have the most passing touchdowns against each NFL team, let’s answer another question that doesn’t get enough attention – which NFL team has thrown the most passing TDs since 1966? For context, I chose 1966 because that’s when the Super Bowl era began.
It’s the Green Bay Packers, who have thrown 1,377 passing touchdowns since 1966. A strong majority of those touchdowns came from Aaron Rodgers (475 TDs), Brett Favre (442 TDs), Lynn Dickey (133 TDs), and Bart Starr (55 TDs). Looking at that group, it’s no surprise that the Packers are on top.
The San Francisco 49ers are the next closest with 1,294 passing touchdowns since 1966 – in large part thanks to Joe Montana, Steve Young, John Brodie, and Jeff Garcia. The Cowboys, Raiders, Chargers, and Patriots each have at least 1,280 passing touchdowns throughout the history of their franchises.
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