Peyton Manning Decision Will Pay off with Broncos Playoff Berth in 2012

The Denver Broncos made the playoffs last season with Tim Tebow under center and now they have moved on to four-time MVP Peyton Manning. Anything less than a playoff berth in 2012 would be a huge disappointment.

The Broncos relied on defense and the NFL's top rushing offense (164.5 yards per game) to win in 2011, and were able to overcome Tebow's deficiencies as a passer in doing so. Assuming that Manning is healthy, they should be even better with a true passing game.

The AFC West was weak in 2011 but should be improved next season, at least slightly. If the Kansas City Chiefs are healthy and the San Diego Chargers' new free agent additions fit in, both squads could be dangerous. But Manning will make the rest of the Broncos better thanks to his presence and the knowledge he can impart to the roster.

While Manning can't be expected to be the guy he was in the past numbers-wise, simply because he will be 36 when the season starts, that doesn't mean he can't provide a huge boost to the franchise. With an up-and-coming young receiver like Demaryius Thomas and a solid running game already in place, adding Manning should immediately vault the Broncos to the top tier of the AFC.

It has to be tough for a guy like Tebow who energized the franchise and fanbase in 2011, but simply put, Manning is a better quarterback and will be for the foreseeable future. He makes the Broncos a better team and gives them a more realistic shot at reaching the Super Bowl. That is why Denver had to make this move.

With Manning, the Broncos should be penciled in as a playoff team in 2012. In fact, they could be one of the best squads in the NFL as long as everyone stays healthy and falls in line behind their new quarterback.