Luck bests Manning in Colts’ 24-13 win over bungling Broncos

Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning (18) is sacked by Indianapolis Colts outside linebacker Erik Walden (93) during the second half of an NFL divisional playoff football game, Sunday, Jan. 11, 2015, in Denver. The Colts won 24-13 to advance to the AFC Championship game against the New England Patriots. (AP Photo/Jack Dempsey) Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning (18) is sacked by Indianapolis Colts outside linebacker Erik Walden (93) during the second half of an NFL divisional playoff football game, Sunday, Jan. 11, 2015, in Denver. The Colts won 24-13 to advance to the AFC Championship game against the New England Patriots. (AP Photo/Jack Dempsey)

By Associated Press January 12, 2015 5 min read

DENVER (AP) – Andrew Luck displaced Peyton Manning in Indianapolis, and now he might have sent his predecessor into retirement, too.

Manning was murky about his future following Denver’s 24-13 loss to the Colts in the AFC divisional round Sunday, the Broncos’ first loss at home in 13 months.

After saying last month that he planned on coming back for an 18th season, the five-time MVP wasn’t so certain after his latest playoff fiasco.

“I guess I just can’t give that simple answer,” Manning said. “I’m processing it. So, I can’t say that.”

Luck, the top pick in the 2012 draft following Manning’s tearful divorce from the Colts, has Indy one win away from its first Super Bowl since 2009. And he’s not the least bit surprised the team has gone from 2-14 in 2011 to the cusp of a conference championship in three short years.