Tucked away in an equipment room with hot dogs for nourishment and DeMarcus Ware seated next to him for entertainment — that’s how Peyton Manning watched the Broncos Nov. 29 game against New England.
Four days earlier, a second opinion on his left foot confirmed torn plantar fascia, leaving Manning in a walking cast. With the snow swirling and temperatures dropping in Denver, Manning retreated to the locker room.
“DeMarcus is a big-time second guesser,” Manning said, laughing. “He’s saying, ‘Wrap up Von (Miller). Wrap up Malik (Jackson).’ I really enjoyed his commentary during the game. The hot dogs aren’t bad (in the equipment room), but I’d much prefer to be on the field.”
Manning will be back on the field Sunday, reviving the NFL’s most celebrated rivalry. Manning and Tom Brady have met 16 times, tied with Johnny Unitas and Bart Starr for the most matchups by Super Bowl winning quarterbacks. Round 17 boasts history and intrigue. At 77 years, it represents the oldest combined age of starters in a conference championship game. For Manning, the game represents a chance to pen a poetic ending to a rollercoaster season featuring a 7-0 start, boos, injuries, a six-week absence, a first NFL relief appearance and one touchdown pass at home. Brady has thrown three touchdown pass in Denver this season.
“No matter how you get here, it’s an exciting opportunity,” Manning said. “And it is certainly not one you take for granted.”
Receiver Demaryius Thomas conceded this could be his last game with Manning. While the focus remains on Manning, he no longer is the focus of the offense. He showed a potential blueprint for success in Sunday’s modified version. He took what the Pittsburgh Steelers defense allowed, attempting few deep passes and committing no turnovers for the first time as a starter this season. Manning, who completed 21-of-37 passes for 222 yards, spent his time divided equally under center and in shotgun formations, though the Broncos ran the ball better when he was under center.
“Sure,” Manning said if the Broncos running game alleviates pressure on him. “But I think in the playoffs everybody has to play their role. This team has won as a team all year, everybody doing their part to make a critical play at a critical time.”
A genius tag dangles from Patriots coach Bill Belichick’s hoodie, who thrives on taking away an opponent’s strength. When the Broncos defeated the Patriots in November, they ran for 179 yards. Speculation exists the Patriots will crowd the line of scrimmage, especially if run-stuffing linebacker Dont’a Hightower is healthy, daring Manning to pass. It is a formula multiple opponents have employed this season.
Wednesday, Belichick refused, as is his wont, to provide any hints.
“Peyton is a great player. We’ve had tremendous battles against him through the years,” Belichick said. “There isn’t a player off our team that I have any more respect for than Peyton Manning. So his preparation, his consistency, his skills, I would never, ever, ever underestimate him under any circumstances.”
Manning made an impact in the Broncos’ previous victory against New England. Ware said Manning provided a tip relayed to the sideline that led to a sack. But, there’s only so much you can do from the equipment room. It’s easier with the equipment on.
“There’s no question a lot has happened this season that’s been very different for me,” Manning said. “Staying patient has certainly helped me.”
Troy E. Renck: trenck@denverpost.com or @troyrenck
