What does Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning think of how Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton is playing this season?
"He’s been awesome," Manning said. "It’s the best word I can think of."
"I tell you, he’s just had this incredible year," Manning said at Opening Night of Super Bowl week. "I mean, no doubt in my mind he’s going to be the MVP."
"He’s been a great passer, he’s been a great runner, he’s been a great leader," Manning said. "You don’t go 17-1 as a starting quarterback without being awesome and that’s what he’s been this year, without a doubt."
Yes, Manning has heard the comparisons between himself and Newton, and Manning said if he scores a touchdown like Newton does, he'll celebrate, too.
"If I run a touchdown – I promise if I run a touchdown on Sunday, I will celebrate. I can assure you of that," Manning said.
Manning also said he likes Newton's enthusiasm.
"I think his passion, his enthusiasm for the game, I think it’s great," Manning said. "I think it’s good for football."
The Broncos and Panthers play in the Super Bowl this Sunday.