The big question for Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning after Sunday’s victory over the Panthers was whether he’ll be retiring from the NFL in the wake of his second Super Bowl title.
Manning’s play on Sunday was in line with what we’ve seen most of the season. The arm strength and command of the passing game was down from what we’ve grown accustomed to seeing, which would seem to make getting a ring and walking away a likely outcome.
Wide receiver Emmanuel Sanders hopes that’s not the case, though.
“Hopefully we’re not sending him out,” Sanders said. “If we are, it’s amazing. It’s a lot of exclamation points to a great career and even crazier season -- just dealing with the ups and downs with that one incident coming out, losing the starting spot so to speak -- he handled his business and stayed true to his character, stayed true to the person that he is, and it all paid off and now he’s a Super Bowl champ.”
Demaryius Thomas echoed his fellow wideout’s sentiments about hoping Manning is back in Denver for another season and said the win was a good answer to the “naysayers.” With an overwhelming defense and big plays from special teams, the Broncos could win without big performances from Manning. Pulling it off again in 2016 would likely be even more difficult, which makes leaving on a high note look all the more appealing.