Is Peyton Manning Responsible for Another Loss (Again)?

Having just watched the now 4-8 Cowboys beat the Colts on an overtime field goal, I'm really starting to think Peyton's ability to win close games is slipping away much too quickly. He led a great game-tying drive with just seconds to go in the fourth, but after the Indy defense held Dallas to give Peyton the chance to win it, he made a poor decision (one of many of late) and the ball was picked off for the fourth time in the game. Many of these errant throws and bad decisions have become a significant reason as to why the Colts are 6-6 and are looking at missing the playoffs for the first time in a long time. (Since 2002). They are now at least a game behind AFC South division leader Jacksonville, but if they defeat the Titans this Thursday, and can take down the Jags at home the following week, they could still have a shot, although they'd have to hope for some help elsewhere. Granted, it hasn't always been his fault since the skid began. I lost track of how many key players are hurt and out for the rest of the year, but he is arguably the best quarterback of all time and has proven just how good he is leading come from behind drives. They do have many young and new players that have stepped up to help make this challenging time much more easy for Peyton, but he needs to continue playing at the high level that has earned him 4 MVP awards. With the possibility of having this season over and done with, and the scary fiasco that is the potential lockout resulting in no 2011 NFL season, maybe the Colts just need to forget this year, be happy with the progress despite the injuries, and hope that in 2012 they can be the first team to play a Super Bowl in their home stadium, just like the Cowboys' high hopes had them poised to do this year. I do say this: anything is still possible. The AFC South is very weak and if the Colts win out and win the division with a 10-6 record, something could still happen...