G.O.A.T Modern Day QB Part 1

Sticking in the conference, two other names mentioned faced off in the Sunday “prime time” game. Luck came into Denver to take on the Colts former franchise player, Peyton Manning. In what most predicted would be a high scoring affair where both QBs would put up incredible numbers, they were all sadly mistaken. One man came to play and the other proved himself to be over the hill and well past his prime. Known for his game winning drives and comebacks, Peyton failed to make an impact for what seemed like the umpteenth time, going an abysmal 9/22 at one point in the game. Missing numerous throws to wide open receivers, making irrational decisions and just plain stinking up the place are things Peyton fans won’t allow to disgrace the historic career Mr.Manning has had. Sometimes athletes whom are full of pride just don’t understand and won’t accept when it’s time to hang up the laces. This could be a case of bad timing but is more than likely the sign that another legend has became a thing of the past, and fittingly dethroned by the very same person who took his spot in Peyton’s previous home. His regular season play can be the solidifying factor contributing to him being the all time great Modern day machine. His ability or lack thereof in the postseason and clutch games tells a different story, resulting in many to believe that even in his prime Peyton cannot be named the top dog. Though reports leaked following the loss to the Colts that he was playing on a torn right quad for the past few months. Regardless the pass rush that he has to endure from Defensive juggernauts, Bills, Ravens, Dolphins etc is too much for a man that is as tough as a sheet of glass at this point in his career. Now on to the man who stole the symbolic torch from his predecessor, Andrew Luck.

Luck was under heavy criticism coming into the postseason in 2015. Making horrible decisions throughout the year, critics were quick to doubt the Colts chances if they were to advance to face the Broncos. Favoured by a bunch, Denver missed the mark by a longshot. Securing the spot in the final four for the first time in his career, Andrew Luck played like he had all season. With virtually no running game for Indy, the ball ended up in Andrew’s hands 43 times. Two interceptions to go with the pair of touchdowns gave Denver a few chances to catch up and win the game. Blame it on the occasion or whatever you like, the fact of the matter is Luck turns the ball over as much as Brett Favre did. Which could be a good thing depending how you look at it. When the game is on the line he almost always ends up on top, be it with a highlight reel bootleg run or a bomb to TY Hilton. The 3rd year QB finds ways to win tough games. Take away the turnovers and Andrew Luck could be on top of the rankings. If he wins the Super Bowl this season with no solid Rb and less than marquee name WR’s, Andrew cracks my top 3.

After these three, the AFC gets mediocre. I know I will get hate for leaving Big Ben off this list. The man has two rings, threw 6 TDs in a game twice this 2014 season, has the toughness and size of a linebacker and just doesn’t quit on any play, ever.  Without Hines Ward, Ben hasn’t been able to replicate his postseason success. They’ve had replacement players who in all honesty can win you championships, the options just aren’t used correctly. Give Joe Flacco a Mike Wallace or an Antonio Brown he has sky scraping numbers, look at the damage done with a veteran Steve Smith Sr. I refuse to place Philip Rivers on any type of QB list, unless it’s one involving most chances blown! His lackluster career is more than enough proof. Alex Smith hasn’t thrown a TD to a WR since Willie Davis circa ’95. Maybe not that long but an entire season plus more feels like an eternity. Any other name brought up would be irrelevant in the conversation.

Stay tuned for Part 2, the NFC contenders!