Broncos (Somewhat) Mid-season Awards
By Dan Armelli
MVP: QB Peyton Manning
November 9, 2014; Oakland, CA, USA; Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning (18) passes the football against the Oakland Raiders during the first quarter at O.co Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
Duh. There was little debate involved with this one. In Manning’s first two years with the Broncos, he’s been a two-time All-Pro and was named MVP in 2013. With the Broncos, he’s broken single season and career records. This year, it’s been more of the same. It’s not a stretch to say Peyton is probably still in his prime, or has created a second prime. He’s playing at the highest level he’s ever played even after a major neck surgery and even at the age of 38.
More from Broncos News
- Denver Broncos dream coaching staff for DeMeco Ryans
- Denver Broncos: “Sleeper” David Shaw checks every box
- The Broncos’ coaching search likely has not gone to plan
- Special Chiefs Suck Offer: Bet $5, Win $150 if Joe Burrow Passes for ONE YARD vs KC
- 3 reasons Sean Payton should not coach the Broncos
Nine games into this season, Manning is 4th in the NFL in completion percentage, 3rd in passing yards, 2nd in quarterback rating, and 1st in passing touchdowns. He’s also the 7th rated quarterback (11.4) according to Pro Football Focus. Not bad for a guy who’s career was in flux a few years ago.
Manning makes everyone around him better. He’s helped Demaryius Thomas and Emmanuel Sanders attain career years. He’s helped Julius Thomas become a household name. He’s also made this staggered offensive line look better than they are. With his quick release and pre-snap reads of the defense, Manning could make yours truly look good in the trenches. He’s just been nearly unstoppable this year and is the main reason the Broncos have been a record setting offense. There’s no question he’s the MVP of this team.
Honorable Mention: Running Backs Coach Eric Studesville
I had a little fun with this one. Even though the Broncos are 26th in the NFL in rushing yards per game, Studesville has done a great job keeping all four of these running backs ready. All four of them have at least in spurts looked like they could start on this team. When Montee Ball went down, Hillman was ready and looked new and improved. Went Hillman went down last weekend in Oakland, C.J. Anderson was ready and rushed for a career high 90 yards. Undrafted rookie Juwan Thompson has also answered the bell at different times this year. With three touchdowns, he’s already proven that he can get the tough yards and also protect Peyton Manning. Studesville should be commended for the job he’s done with keeping these guys focused.