Mile High Sports

Rapid React: Peyton Manning announced as Broncos starter in playoffs

Nov 15, 2015; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning (18) looks to throw the ball during the first half against the Kansas City Chiefs at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports

Early Thursday morning, as the Denver Broncos returned to practice after three days off, Peyton Manning was announced to the team as the starting quarterback for the team’s upcoming Divisional Round playoff game, according to multiple reports and the team.

Manning has not started a game since Nov. 15, 2015 when he threw four interceptions against the Kansas City Chiefs in a loss that also saw him eclipse Brett Favre for the NFL’s all-time passing record.

The future Hall of Fame quarterback returned to action after nursing a torn plantar fascia back to health in a Week 17 comeback victory over the San Diego Chargers. Manning led the Broncos to 20 points in one-and-a-half quarters, failing to score on only one of five possessions (not including the final drive to expire time).

Under Osweiler, the Broncos committed five turnovers in two-and-a-half quarters, including two interceptions and a fumble by the fourth-year quarterback. In relief of Manning, Osweiler was 4-2 prior to the San Diego game.

While Manning certainly brings experience and pedigree, he has struggled throughout the season. Heading into the final week of the regular season, his 17 interceptions still led the league despite his not having played since Week 10. His nine touchdowns and 17 interceptions are by far the worst ratio of his career.

Osweiler, in eight games (seven starts) threw for 10 touchdowns and six interceptions with a 61.8 percent completion percentage. Manning, by comparison, has completed passes at a 59.8 percent clip. Perhaps factoring into the decision, was the fact that Osweiler sprained his knee in the finale against the Chargers.

As expected, the announcement has pundits and experts split on the decision. Here’s what many of the biggest names in NFL circles as well as the Denver media had to say about the decision to start Manning.

https://twitter.com/AllbrightNFL/status/685125950187544576

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