Should Peyton Manning be considered for the NFL’s MVP award?

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Peyton Manning has not played a single down this season. Yet, there is an interesting debate brewing about whether the injured Indianapolis Colts quarterback should win his fifth NFL MVP award this year.

The premiere issue of NFL Magazine features an article entitled: ‘Our Man Manning. Without even playing a down, Peyton’s proven he’s the NFL MVP.’

Sounds pretty silly, right? Especially with guys such as Aaron Rodgers, Drew Brees and others making cases for themselves on the field.

But think about it. Manning, who had never missed a start until this season, has led the Colts to the postseason nine straight times, including two Super Bowl appearances and one league championship. Without him this year, the Colts are 0-12.

‘Look, we all know who would win if we took a poll right now. Aaron Rodgers would absolutely kill it. But if the Colts end up going the way they’re headed, the more it proves that Peyton really is the franchise,” said Mike Dunphy, publisher and editor in chief of NFL Magazine.

Dunphy added: ‘Is he really the MVP? Everybody has an opinion on that, and this is ours.’

What do you think? Does the Colts’ dismal performance in Manning’s absence prove he really is the most valuable player in the league? Or should that honor be reserved for someone who actually played this season?

Vote in the poll and leave a comment explaining why you voted the way you did.

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-- Chuck Schilken

The Associated Press contributed to this report.