Sub-par Manning Primes Denver for an Early Playoff Exit

DENVER, Colo.—After Peyton Manning’s dismal four interception game and a 37-28 Denver loss to the Bengals, are the Broncos’ hopes of a Super Bowl Ring diminishing?

One could say that Manning single-handedly lost the game for the Broncos. Along with his four picks, Manning went 28-44 in passing attempts along with a Quarterback Rating (QBR) of 24.1.

Manning’s poor performance on Monday night was one of many within the past several weeks as well.

Prior to Monday, in week 15 Manning had a sub-par “Peyton” performance against the San Diego Chargers, throwing only one touchdown and 233 yards. Prior to that game, Manning had his worse in a Broncos uniform throwing two interceptions with zero touchdowns and only 173 yards.

Manning has slowed down at the most inopportune time if the Broncos plan on making back-to-back Super Bowl appearances.

Going back to Manning’s Monday night performance, after a five-yard pass from Manning to receiver Emmanuel Sanders in the second half to go up 28-27, Cincinnati cornerback Adam Jones picked off Manning on the team’s next drive.

The Bengals would take a chip-shot of a field goal to take the lead for good from the Broncos.

However, Manning continued to throw interceptions. With the Broncos’ final two drives, Manning would throw two picks to cornerback Dre Kirkpatrick, one turning into a pick-six.

Lack of physical ability had nothing to do with Manning’s woes. Manning just was not there mentally.

Manning seemed fidgety throughout the game. He missed many open targets, targeting receiver Demaryius Thomas 14 times throughout the game and only throwing seven catchable balls.

At the end of the game, the Broncos had to make up 81 yards and two points in four minutes. Usually Manning can do that with ease. Last night, not so much.

Despite a loss, the Broncos can still clinch a first-round bye in the playoffs with a win against the 3-12 Oakland Raiders, a safe bet. However, with the recent slide of Manning, the Broncos seem susceptible. If Manning cannot keep up with the likes of Tom Brady, Andrew Luck and Philip Rivers in the playoffs, look for an early exit from the Denver Broncos.