Peyton Manning’s 2015 debut looked a lot like the end of last season
I am starting to get the feeling that the 2015 version of Peyton Manning will leave a lasting memory of a Hall of Fame quarterback that is nothing more than a shell of his former self. While Manning’s offensive line didn’t do him any favors in this game (four sacks allowed), it was clear that the veteran was not in his comfort zone in the Broncos’ narrow 19-13 win against the Baltimore Ravens.
Peyton Manning throws a pick 6⃣. #NFLSunday https://t.co/E5yRTCjkQo
— Complex (@ComplexMag) September 13, 2015
It seems at this point that Manning’s primary issue is arm strength. In a specific play against Baltimore, Manning attempted to throw an intermediate out route to a receiver from the right hash. He did so with pressure in his face and an inability to step into the throw. The result was a pick-six for Ravens cornerback Jimmy Smith. That’s a throw Manning could have made in his sleep five years ago. And now that he can’t, Manning needs to understand his limitations at this late stage in his career.
In addition to this, the Broncos need to understand that they can’t rely on the veteran quarterback the same way they could in the past. In short, there is absolutely no reason he should be tossing the rock around the stadium 25 times in a half. Overall, the future Hall of Famer completed 24-of-40 passes for just 175 yards without a touchdown.