Leading Off

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PHOTOGRAPH BY DONALD MIRALLE FOR SPORTS ILLUSTRATED

Marked Manning Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning (18) took advantage of superior protection to throw a seven-yard pass in the first quarter of Super Bowl 50 in Santa Clara, Calif., on Sunday. Although he put up subpar numbers—13 completions in 23 attempts for 141 yards and no touchdowns—Manning led Denver to a 24--10 win over the Panthers in his 293rd and likely last game (page 24). At 39, Manning became the oldest quarterback to win a Super Bowl.

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PHOTOGRAPH BY BRAD MANGIN FOR SPORTS ILLUSTRATED

Manning Of the Hour All eyes—and cameras and microphones—were trained on the QB in the aftermath of his 200th career win and second Super Bowl victory (tying him with his younger brother, Giants quarterback Eli). Despite indications from those close to him that he would retire after the game, the five-time NFL MVP said he would wait for the emotions to subside before making a decision.

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PHOTOGRAPH BY DEANNE FITZMAURICE FOR SPORTS ILLUSTRATED

Isle of Manning After connecting on a 22-yard throw in the third quarter, Manning trotted upfield to rejoin his teammates. While the Broncos' offense converted just one of 14 third downs, their top-ranked defense came up with seven sacks, four turnovers and a touchdown to spearhead the win.