Brian Spurlock-US PRESSWIRE
A year ago this question would have seem ridiculous, nobody would be wondering if Houston Texans quarterback Matt Schaub would have a better year than Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning. However, times change and players get older while others enter their prime.
Schaub was drafted in 3rd round by the Atlanta Falcons out of the University of Virginia. He has been the starting quarterback since 2007. He has been a productive quarterback in the league but not considered to be an elite talent. His best season came in 2009 when threw for 4,770 yards, 29 touchdowns and 15 interceptions with a completion percentage of 67.9.
Manning was the number 1 overall selection of the Indianapolis Colts in the 1998 draft. He has had a Hall of fame career including a Super Bowl Victory in 2006. His best year statistically was 2004 when he threw for 4,557 yards, 49 touchdowns and 10 interceptions with a completion percentage of 67.6. He has been a dominate force in the league and has put great numbers and has consistently led his team to the playoffs.
This year the situation has shifted. Schaub is an established veteran leading a strong team that is expected to go far into the playoffs. The Texans are a team stacked with veteran talent throughout the roster. Schaub, has familiar and talented weapons to throw to in wide receiver Andre Johnson and tight end Owen Daniels. The Texans ground game is led by running back Arian Foster who is in his prime. Manning is in a different situation after coming to a new team. He does not have the familiarity with his teammates and coaches. The Broncos have some promising talent at wide receiver in Demaryius Thomas and Eric Decker. The Broncos running game is led by a an older running back Willis McGahee. He is still talent but is definitely and the tail end of his career.
The season is setup for Schaub to have a better year. He is entering the prime of his career and is surrounded by weapons. Manning is in the decline of his career as age and injuries catch up with him. He is in a new place without the talent he has had in previous years. In the end look for Schaub to come out on top.
Joe Serenka, Houston Texans Blogger. Follow him on twitter @Texansblogster
