Indianapolis quarterback Peyton Manning causes defensive players to mutter. They do all they can to limit big plays, force him to be patient and keep passes underneath. Next thing they know, the Colts are at the 15-yard line.
As former Redskins safety Matt Bowen said, “A frustration factor builds on the defense because you think you’re doing a good job, but the ball keeps moving down the field.”
Recommended Stories
Meanwhile, Manning’s counterpart with New Orleans, Drew Brees, causes the same issues. A defender has his man covered, taking away almost every opening. Next thing they know, the receiver is hauling in a pass.
“The corner is shaking his head because he’s all over the guy and is like, ‘What do I have to do?'” Bowen said.
Bowen, who now writes for the National Football Post, faced both quarterbacks during his seven-year career.
Here’s his take on what he likes best about both quarterbacks:
On Brees » “He’s more accurate than Peyton. He’s the best in the NFL when it comes to putting the ball where he wants it to be. If the defender is outside, he throws inside and down, away from the defensive back. If he’s inside, he throws high to the outside shoulder. And Brees is better in the pocket than Manning. He’s more creative and has better feet. He’s also not 6-foot-5, so he has to be creative.”
On Manning » “Peyton doesn’t make many mistakes with the ball. He knows where he’s going and where the route is supposed to be run, and it looks like it’s perfect every time. He’s so good checking at the line that he creates those opportunities for himself. If he sees Cover 2, he’ll check to four vertical routes and he knows he’ll have the tight end on the hashmark about 20 yards down the field, and he’ll put it there every time. He’ll get the [middle linebacker] to chase another route or bite on play-action. If you’re talking about the smartest quarterback in the NFL, you have to go with Manning.”
