Set the record straight – backup quarterback isn’t the Colts biggest concern

Manning watches the Colts-Rams preseason game from the sidelines.

Everyone is worried about Peyton Manning’s neck. They are worried about his condition and whether he can make it the full season–and if he can’t, then what.

Relax people.

Sure, the neck of the franchise is a big deal. But by all indications, he is just fine. And if history tells us anything–it’s just that.

Peyton Manning has yet to miss a start at quarterback, a string 208 consecutive regular-season game over 13 seasons. He has lined up under center every snap but one (I believe) that he has wanted. When they open the season in Houston on September 11th, he’ll be okay. His 80% is better than many of the leagues QBs best.

The big topic of conversation throughout training camp has been on the backups: Painter, Orlovsky, Hartline and Davis. The Colts have been favoring Painter for the last couple of years.

Despite quality game repetitions, the Colts support Painter and have tabbed him as the No. 2 guy. Personally, I think it’s way to early to call the race and believe he has PLENTY more to prove. His only true test came two years ago when the team gave away the perfect season in week 16 against the Jets and then again at Buffalo. Medicore at best.

And before I can even take Curtis Painter seriously, someone needs to get him to clean up his appearance.

Growing up, I always believe you should look clean and professional because you never know who is watching and you want to look the part. Well right now, Painter looks like he hitchhiked to Anderson for training camp and found the jersey in the dumpster. Long, bleached hair and a few days old beard. Curtis needs to freshen up before taking the field.

Then it’s about proving he is worthy of the position but here’s the next big thing–the backup quarterback of the Colts will not win the team a Super Bowl. I know, shocking.

The backup’s role at most would be to win a critical game or two down the stretch if the unfortunate happened forcing 18 to sit for a couple games.

No Peyton, no Super Bowl. Book it.

This job should be taken seriously because you just don’t know when something might happen. Fans hope Peyton continues his durable streak and the backup is an afterthought. The No. 2 can’t think that way.

Dan Orlovsky is a strong contender right now but mostly trying to learn a piece of the dense play book in Manning’s offsense. Nothing stellar out of the first preseason game; a touchdown but also a poor, regrettable interception. It happens.

One thing to be clear: This team is built around Peyton. Without him, I’d guess they’re a 6-win team. If he for some reason would have a season-ending injury (knock on wood), there’s no doubt the Colts would turn their head in a different direction and go elsewhere with a replacement. The No. 2 guy right now is all about holding down the fort, keeping the rhythm should Manning have to miss a couple games. Something none of us want to see.

Until then, turn the attention to the defensive line, or secondary because they need some work. And Painter, cut the locks and follow Peyton’s lead.

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