Why Andrew Luck Will Never Fully Fill Peyton Manning's Shoes

Imagine having to replace everyone's hero. Having to fill the shoes of the best player to ever suit up for an organization. That would be about the worst job I can possibly think of. And in all likelihood, Stanford quarterback Andrew Luck will have to do just that.

Let's review just what kind of guy Luck will be replacing if the Indianapolis Colts do take Luck with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2012 NFL draft, anoint him their quarterback of the future and move on from the Peyton Manning Era.

Manning is a four-time NFL MVP, an 11-time Pro Bowler and an eight-time All-Pro selection. He has been selected AFC Player of the Year six times and is the Colts' all-time leader in career wins, passing touchdowns, pass attempts, pass completions and passing yards. He also led the Colts to their only Super Bowl title in 2007.

He also holds dozens of NFL records and is on pace to set even more if he does return healthy to the NFL. Also, until this season, Manning had never missed a game during his NFL career.

I know Luck is supposedly the best quarterback prospect to enter the NFL since Manning, but how could Luck ever live up to what his predecessor has accomplished?

The first thing people point to when referencing the Manning-Luck situation is the success Aaron Rodgers has had following Brett Favre in Green Bay, but that comparison doesn't hold water. Rodgers spent three years watching Favre and developing behind him. Luck will likely be thrust into the starting role immediately.

No matter how well Luck plays, he will likely never live up to what Manning has accomplished during his 14 years in the Circle City.