Denver Broncos

Broncos' weak link could shorten Peyton Manning's last run

Published Jan. 10, 2016 11:44 p.m. ET

foxsports

Peyton Manning's last playoff run could boil down to the play of a second-year right tackle.

In fact, it won't matter if Manning starts or sits if Michael Schofield flops. His past struggles have held the entire Denver Broncos offense hostage.

It was Schofield, not Manning or Brock Osweiler, who was most culpable for the team's last home loss. Raiders defensive end Khalil Mack toyed with the Michigan product to the tune of four sacks.

Head coach Gary Kubiak pulled Schofield in Week 17 when he surrendered too many pressures to San Diego's Melvin Ingram. Yet his replacement, Tyler Polumbus, won't start on Sunday in their biggest game yet.

Offensive coordinator Rick Dennison, via ESPN: "In the run game he did a good job. There were a couple (pass protections) and he was in fine shape. His hands were in a good spot. Then he drifts and something happens."

It'll be up to Schofield to make sure nothing happens against the visiting Pittsburgh Steelers. Manning's playoff fate -- and postseason legacy -- could depend on it.