With Win, Andrew Luck Could Make More Postseason History
Earlier in the week, we acknowledged that the Indianapolis Colts Andrew Luck could make NFL postseason history by being only the 3rd quarterback (in addition to Joe Flacco and Mark Sanchez) to beat both Peyton Manning and Tom Brady in a season’s playoffs.
However, there’s more.
According to ESPN Stats & Info, with a win on Sunday, Luck would be the 1st QB selected No 1. overall to reach the Super Bowl within his first 3 seasons:
Of course, Luck was drafted #1 overall in the 2012 NFL Draft by the Colts and hasn’t looked back. He’s met the initial hype and more, far exceeding the early expectations that were placed upon him. The Colts have made the postseason in all 3 seasons that Luck has been their starting quarterback, although Sunday poses the opportunity to place him in his own elite company.
Jan 11, 2015; Denver, CO, USA; Indianapolis Colts quarterback Andrew Luck (12) against the Denver Broncos in the 2014 AFC Divisional playoff football game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. The Colts defeated the Broncos 24-13. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
It would be a pretty impressive feat to say the least given that several Hall of Fame and Super Bowl Champion caliber quarterbacks have also been taken No. 1 overall in past NFL history including Terry Bradshaw, John Elway, Troy Aikman, Peyton Manning, and Eli Manning. However, on Sunday, Luck has a chance to do something that no one in the aforementioned group has done.
Of course, a win will be easier said than done on Sunday. The Colts will be going up against Tom Brady’s New England Patriots at Foxborough in the AFC Championship game. Not only do the Patriots feature their own all-time great quarterback in Brady, but they have one of the NFL’s all-time best coaches in Bill Belichick.
Still, if last Sunday was any indication, Luck is among the best quarterbacks the league has to offer. Featuring a strong arm and surprising mobility, he’s as dangerous as any quarterback left in the playoffs. However, it’s been his decision making and pocket awareness that has arguably been most impressive in this year’s postseason.
He’ll look to keep the momentum going this Sunday against the Patriots, and perhaps, make even more postseason history in the process.
Nov 16, 2014; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Indianapolis Colts quarterback Andrew Luck (12) shakes hands after the game with New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) at Lucas Oil Stadium. New England defeated Indianapolis 42-20. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports