This is a huge game for quarterback Peyton Manning on Sunday against the New Enlgand Patriots. Manning had 31 touchdown passes, just nine interceptions and a quarterback rating 101 in the regular season. But in the Colts' last two playoff wins over the Chiefs and Ravens, Manning has just one touchdown pass and five interceptions. If the Colts are going to take the next step and get over the hump, then Manning will need to play the game of his life against his old playoff nemesis.
The quarterback position is one of the toughest in the NFL to evaluate. I have often said and heard a lot of criticism from fans that Tom Brady is the best quarterback in the NFL. What separates Brady from Manning is his ability to play on a national stage and win Super Bowls. Brady is a very smart, confident, instinctive quarterback that has the ability to process information quickly in the pocket and make all throws in the passing game, which will place a lot of pressure on the Colts' defense. Also, he is very tough in the pocket with outstanding pocket awareness. What Brady has accomplished this season is unbelievable when you study the supporting cast in New England, partcularly at the receiver position. There is clearly no No. 1 target in the passing game, however, a cast of characters that have been molded together in the Patriots offensive system.