No Shocker Here...Manning Named NFL MVP

[NaptownChief]

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=3805670


NEW YORK -- Peyton Manning can tell Brett Favre to move over and make room for him atop the roster of NFL Most Valuable Players.


Right Place For Peyton
Peyton Manning was worthy of this year's MVP honors, writes ESPN's Paul Kuharsky. Blog
For the third time, Manning won the award by The Associated Press, tying Favre as the only players in that elite category.

The Indianapolis Colts quarterback was a landslide winner Friday in balloting by a nationwide panel of 50 sports writers and broadcasters who cover the NFL. Manning also was the league MVP in 2003, when he shared it with Tennessee quarterback Steve McNair, and in 2004.

Favre, then with Green Bay, took MVP honors in 1995 and '96 before sharing it with Detroit running back Barry Sanders in 1997.

"I know it's an individual award, but ... truly, in my opinion, a team award," said Manning, who received 32 votes, far ahead of Miami quarterback Chad Pennington (4) and Atlanta running back Michael Turner (4).

"It's been the most rewarding regular season that I've been a part of in my 11 years, and I have to believe a lot of the other players and even coaches might feel the same way."

This has been a most unusual season for the Colts, who normally have the AFC South just about clinched by Thanksgiving. Manning had two operations on his left knee in the preseason, cutting into practice time, blunting his usual precision as a passer and, eventually, leading to a 3-4 start.

From there, with Manning getting sharper by the week, the Colts won nine straight games to secure a wild-card berth and a meeting Saturday night with San Diego.

In that streak, Manning is 209-of-290 for 2,248 yards and 17 touchdowns, with only three interceptions. He extended his NFL record with his ninth 4,000-yard season and finished with 27 touchdown passes, 12 interceptions and a 95.0 passer rating.

"It's just been different," Manning said. "It's been an entirely different season. I think the one thing that's been inaccurate is that the seasons we were starting out 13-0, 8-0, 7-0, that it was easy. So all of a sudden this year we are 3-4 and now things are hard. Believe me, it's never easy to win a game. I've never taken for granted winning a football game."

The folks in Indianapolis might take for granted having Manning behind center, just as Packers and now Jets fans have assumed Favre would be there every week. Favre has started 269 straight regular-season games, the record for quarterbacks. Manning's string is 176 -- every game since he was the No. 1 pick in the 1998 draft.

"In other years, everything started fast," Colts running back Dominic Rhodes said. "He's still breaking records. But this year, there were a bunch of negative things said in the beginning, and he brought his best when we needed his best.

"This is probably the best ball I've seen him play."

Tony Dungy would agree. The Colts' coach said several times he favored Pittsburgh linebacker James Harrison for MVP -- Harrison tied with Minnesota RB Adrian Peterson with three votes. But after Manning's flawless work in the second half of the season, Dungy, while admittedly biased, changed his mind.

"I said after we left Pittsburgh [on Nov. 9] that I would vote for James Harrison," Dungy noted this week. "If I was voting today, I'd vote for Peyton Manning."

A vast majority of the voters did.

Also receiving votes were San Diego QB Philip Rivers (2), Tennessee rookie RB Chris Johnson (1) and Arizona QB Kurt Warner (1).1

Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press

[Bronx33]

Chargers = speedbump

[Rock Chalk]

I think Manning deserves it this year too. Getting that team to rebound the way they did was almost entirely on Manning.

[SonOfLe-loLang]

Maybe he'll cut it up with his fruit salad or something

[Rock Chalk]

Haha normally I hate Manning commercials but that one is classic.

[Northman]

Rivers deserves it.

[NaptownChief]

I think Manning deserves it this year too. Getting that team to rebound the way they did was almost entirely on Manning.


I would agree...The defense has been pretty poor and the running game awful. Not to mention a patch work offensive line. To go 12-4 with that around him was nothing short of amazing work by Manning. I hope they run the table in the playoffs but I honestly can't see that happening. It is virtually impossible to win in the playoffs without a good defense and a solid running game....they have neither.

[ohiobronco2]

"Take a hike."
"You know, I'm going to do that. Weather here is nice."
"Sweet."

[ohiobronco2]

Rivers deserves it.

:rofl: What are you trying to start?

[Rohirrim]

Naptown checks in with his annual Payaton gobble.

[Northman]

:rofl: What are you trying to start?

;D

[Black96WS6]

Peyton can have his MVP as long as it includes a 1st-round playoff exit :D

[Spider]

this it earned manning is the NFL MVP , I do like that Sony Commercial .... manning holding the chicken back is funny

[NaptownChief]

Naptown checks in with his annual Payaton gobble.



And year after year he keeps proving me right. Long after the McNabb and Vick lovers had to tuck tail, Manning just keeps rolling on like the best ever.

[Northman]

As much as i cant stand the Colts there is no denying that Peyton is a great player and worthy of the accolades that he gets.

[Dagmar]

Did anyone see the stat on SC? He's 1 - 4 against a 3 - 4 defence , sacked 13 times as opposed to 6 - 3 against 4 - 3 defences sacked 6 times. Playoff games I think?

[ColoradoDarin]

Manning totally deserved it this year, he was by far the most valuable player for his team. I've always liked Manning, he doesn't take himself that seriously away from the game (cut that meat!), but I don't think there is another player that works harder than him to prepare.

[epicSocialism4tw]

Is this possibly the worst MVP class ever? Manning is always deserving, but after him the list thins out quick. Chris Johnson, Matt Ryan, and River? For MVP?

[MVP-06]

He's probably going to get a massage w/ his trophy, down on the 4th floor

[TheManeMan]

Rivers deserves it.

Lets see what Rivers is going to do against a Colts Defense that gave up only 6 passing TD's this year...yes, you read that right...6 TD's ALL YEAR...

[NaptownChief]

Is this possibly the worst MVP class ever? Manning is always deserving, but after him the list thins out quick. Chris Johnson, Matt Ryan, and River? For MVP?



I would agree it was a pretty poor year. Wasn't a great year for RB's, WR's or QB's. The best statistical QB's largely had poor records: Rivers (8-8), Cutler (8-8), Brees (7-9) so that made it pretty thin for legit MVP's.

[NaptownChief]

Lets see what Rivers is going to do against a Colts Defense that gave up only 6 passing TD's this year...yes, you read that right...6 TD's ALL YEAR...



That is correct but a bit misleading...The Colts D was so easy to run on that nobody really tried to be too agressive with passing on them. They gave up nearly 2000 rushing yards. The only thing the Colts D really has going for it is in must passing situations where Freeney and Mathis can pin their ears back they can really get after the QB....

[Dagmar]

http://blogs.knoxnews.com/knx/telebuddy/archives/manning.jpg

http://cache.daylife.com/imageserve/056s2Jjb936O3/610x.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/147/352071536_8b4204a8c7_o.jpg

[bronco0608]

I bet you naptown chief sends Peyton Mannings keys to a hotel room he is staying at every Sunday.

I have never in my life seen a fan of one team (like the Chiefs for instance) slobberknock a player of another team (like the Colts for instance) as much as Naptown Chief does with Manning.

Its unhealthy, unnatural, and downright disturbing.

[19Morton77]

And year after year he keeps proving me right. Long after the McNabb and Vick lovers had to tuck tail, Manning just keeps rolling on like the best ever.

Who needs Manning when you got that "winner" from Alabama? Or did you guys give up on Zero For Career and go with Thigpen?

[19Morton77]

I bet you naptown chief sends Peyton Mannings keys to a hotel room he is staying at every Sunday.

I have never in my life seen a fan of one team (like the Chiefs for instance) slobberknock a player of another team (like the Colts for instance) as much as Naptown Chief does with Manning.

Its unhealthy, unnatural, and downright disturbing.

and makes sure he posts it at the Broncos website. Very sick and disturbing "fan". Mancrush on Manning.

[400HZ]

Lets see what Rivers is going to do against a Colts Defense that gave up only 6 passing TD's this year...yes, you read that right...6 TD's ALL YEAR...

Rivers scored two of those six and threw for almost 300 yards with a 126.8 QB rating against the Colts. He'll play well. He's played well just about every week this year. The question is if our defense can make some plays and whether or not LT drags us down with his groin injury.

[Br0nc0Buster]

Rivers scored two of those six and threw for almost 300 yards with a 126.8 QB rating against the Colts. He'll play well. He's played well just about every week this year. The question is if our defense can make some plays and whether or not LT drags us down with his groin injury.

Well if the ankle becomes a problem will we see his classis pout on the sidelines with his helmet on trick?

[cabronco]

I hope JC learns, or picks up some tips from Manning at the Pro Bowl. Like maybe reviewing game time playbooks. See JC this guy is triple covered, so no way in hell you want to throw the rock to him, it means somewhere else there's another guy thats open. Look off those safeties as much as you can. Staring down receivers and or telegraphing throws =bad things. You guys get a solid run game and the D turned around and your skills , good things will come your way. ;D

[Rohirrim]

And year after year he keeps proving me right. Long after the McNabb and Vick lovers had to tuck tail, Manning just keeps rolling on like the best ever.

Best ever? Wipe your chin, boy. Brady, Elway and Montana are the best ever. Payaton is an also-ran. Like Marino.

[epicSocialism4tw]

Best ever? Wipe your chin, boy. Brady, Elway and Montana are the best ever. Payaton is an also-ran. Like Marino.

Peyton will go down as one of the greats.

Especially after he and Harrison pass Montana/Rice.

[400HZ]

Well if the ankle becomes a problem will we see his classis pout on the sidelines with his helmet on trick?

If he's going to be at the same level that he was while recovering from his toe injury, then the sideline is where he belongs. What he does on the sideline doesn't have any bearing on the game.

[Bronco LB 59]

Lets see what Rivers is going to do against a Colts Defense that gave up only 6 passing TD's this year...yes, you read that right...6 TD's ALL YEAR...

That pissed me off. The '08 Colts broke the previous record set by the '78 Orange Crush defense (9 passing TD allowed).

[Spider]

I bet you naptown chief sends Peyton Mannings keys to a hotel room he is staying at every Sunday.

I have never in my life seen a fan of one team (like the Chiefs for instance) slobberknock a player of another team (like the Colts for instance) as much as Naptown Chief does with Manning.

Its unhealthy, unnatural, and downright disturbing.
Nappy lives in his own little world , when he ventures out of that world , he gets kinda cranky

[Rohirrim]

Peyton will go down as one of the greats.

Especially after he and Harrison pass Montana/Rice.

Naptown and Drama Queen in the same Manning circle jerk?

What a shocker!

[AbileneBroncoFan]

Peyton Manning has always been one of my favorite athletes. If I had to tell a young kid how to play quarterback, I would simply say do everything like Peyton Manning. He may not have the strongest arm, be the fastest runner, or make everything look effortless, but he is always the most prepared player on the field, he is the definition of leader (Jay could learn a couple of things from him here, but I don't believe Jay is the "poor" leader many make him out to be), and his mechanics and ability to read and manipulate a defense are probably the best I've seen in my 18 years. I was at the Colts-Texans game where they came back in the last 4 minutes and he is always studying photos on the sideline and figuring out his next move. The game winning pass to Wayne was one of the best throws of the year. I wouldn't be surprised if the Colts wind up in Tampa. The Chargers always play them tough, but if it comes down to the final possessions, would anyone here honestly rather have Rivers than Manning? The only time it's remotely safe to bet against Peyton is if it is snowing or below freezing. I doubt that's the case in San Diego.

And to not put Manning in the conversation with Montana, Elway, and Brady is rediculous. Manning will be the all time passer rating leader, has 3 MVPs (more than any of those guys), has a Super Bowl ring and MVP, and is a consumate professional. What else does he have to do? To be a great quarterback, you either have to have mind boggling stats, win A LOT, or do something that's never been seen before or in a long time (like calling your own plays). All 4 of these guys certainly fit in in each of these categories.

Congrats to Peyton. Definitely the most deserving player of the MVP this year, and hopefully will prove it in the post season, beginning tomorrow.

[Br0nc0Buster]

Dear Jay,
When you are at the probowl, get a pen and some paper and write down some notes.
You have all the physical tools of Manning, just need to get it going mentally.

[Circle Orange]

Isn't it special for Peyton.


Although a commentator had a good point, are you going to make him MVP every year because of stats and average defense? Because really, except for the 'bump' when they won the super bowl, the Colts have always had a suspect defense. So at some point you have to wonder what the criteria is.

Peyton is always valuable to his team, but no one had more impact this year than Chad Pennington.

And at what point can everyone be a 'top 5 qb of all time' like, every 3 years? It seems as though MVPs and HOFers are becoming a dime a dozen these days. Peyton works hard and has the benefit of CONTINUITY for like ten freaking years. All the so called 'best' teams have this.

Everyone seems to be in a rush to get him as many superbowls as possible now, by vote or playoff hysteria. Not bad for a guy called a 'big stiff with little upside' and 'smart with limited physical ability' during the draft. And you wonder why smart fans don't bronze everybody too soon?

Yes, Pay a Ton is like the girl with the curl...

[The Moops]

Chad Pennington deserves MVP, but Peyton Manning . . . what did he do the first handful of games this season?

Comeback player should be John Abraham or Kerry Collins . . .

[Los Broncos]

Last years MasterCard commercials were best.

[SouthStndJunkie]

Peyton Manning deserved to win the MVP this year.

I used to despise the guy, but he has earned my respect the last several years and I think is a heck of a QB.

I think his commercials have helped to make him a more likable guy.

[The Moops]

Chad took a 1-15 team and lead them to a shocking 11-5 record and division crown, beating the JETS and BRETT FAVRE, the guy who made him expendable, in the FINAL WEEK.

You can't write that stuff. Peyton Manning still had Reggie Wayne, Marvin Harrison, Joseph Addai, Dallas Clark, etc., to help him power the way.

Chad did everything Favre didn't. Lead and not throw interceptions.

[Rohirrim]

Peyton Manning has always been one of my favorite athletes. If I had to tell a young kid how to play quarterback, I would simply say do everything like Peyton Manning. He may not have the strongest arm, be the fastest runner, or make everything look effortless, but he is always the most prepared player on the field, he is the definition of leader (Jay could learn a couple of things from him here, but I don't believe Jay is the "poor" leader many make him out to be), and his mechanics and ability to read and manipulate a defense are probably the best I've seen in my 18 years. I was at the Colts-Texans game where they came back in the last 4 minutes and he is always studying photos on the sideline and figuring out his next move. The game winning pass to Wayne was one of the best throws of the year. I wouldn't be surprised if the Colts wind up in Tampa. The Chargers always play them tough, but if it comes down to the final possessions, would anyone here honestly rather have Rivers than Manning? The only time it's remotely safe to bet against Peyton is if it is snowing or below freezing. I doubt that's the case in San Diego.

And to not put Manning in the conversation with Montana, Elway, and Brady is rediculous. Manning will be the all time passer rating leader, has 3 MVPs (more than any of those guys), has a Super Bowl ring and MVP, and is a consumate professional. What else does he have to do? To be a great quarterback, you either have to have mind boggling stats, win A LOT, or do something that's never been seen before or in a long time (like calling your own plays). All 4 of these guys certainly fit in in each of these categories.

Congrats to Peyton. Definitely the most deserving player of the MVP this year, and hopefully will prove it in the post season, beginning tomorrow.

bleh I'll bet you need some Chap-stik after that one.

[Miss I.]

Well I guess i need some Chapstick, but really I just like him for his arm. ;D

one of my favorite Peyton Manning moments:

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[Circle Orange]

Well, hopefully Peyton can warm himself wrapped around his MVP award. He'll have all offseason to do so. ;D

[TomServo]

ive said it over and over...mvp trophys arent worth s(p)it unless you cash them in. just ask favre or gannon or even Elway.
p. manning changing the play at the last second is So 2004. watching him wave his arms around and dance his happy feet only to get sacked and lose the game, priceless.

[TomServo]

john elway, five hunt trophys, two lombardies,one superbowl mvp trophy,oyeah,one worthless mvp trophy.
2008's mvp trophy is particularly worthless. just got beat by phillip rivers, but woohoo got a trophy.

[Miss I.]

john elway, five hunt trophys, two lombardies,one superbowl mvp trophy,oyeah,one worthless mvp trophy.
2008's mvp trophy is particularly worthless. just got beat by phillip rivers, but woohoo got a trophy.

well maybe he can use the trophy to smack Rivers in the head. (jk, I would never condone such violence).

So, you must be right, Peyton Manning is an overrated hack. Despite his SB ring, numerous records, SB MVP, MVP, he is worthless. Damn slacker, they should send him to KC.

I really don't get why this is so complicated. SD outplayed Indy. It happens. Any Given Sunday. I mean who really believed the NYG would beat Brady's Patriots? Now I hope Pittsburgh dismantles SD, but it seems unlikely with some of their recent injuries.

Personally, I was hoping for either Chad Pennington or Kurt Warner to get the MVP. They both took two sad ass teams and turned them around. Kurt, of course towards the end of the season hurt his chances with some unfortunate decisions, but I really enjoyed the game yesterday.

[NaptownChief]

Best ever? Wipe your chin, boy. Brady, Elway and Montana are the best ever. Payaton is an also-ran. Like Marino.


Your football knowledge is on par with your politics. Badly distorted by your inability to form a non-emotionally driven thought.

Scorned teenage girls have more logical control over their thoughts.