DENVER — Tom Brady and Peyton Manning still earn top billing in Sunday's AFC championship between the New England Patriots and Denver Broncos.
It's just that their 17th meeting no longer features a pair of icons in their considerable prime. While Brady remains as good as ever, Manning is clearly in his twilight.
Abraded, he now relies as much on guile and grit. His left foot damaged, his right arm diminished, his shoulders no longer haul the hopes of a franchise and its fans.
Manning's mind is now his most dangerous asset as he tries to reach Super Bowl 50 two months shy of 40.