Indianapolis Colts quarterback Peyton Manning sat down for an interview with ESPN’s Rick Reilly on Thursday. Manning, who is still recovering from neck surgery on September 8th, says he can’t believe it’s been eight years since the Colts memorable fourth quarter comeback against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Monday Night Football.
Reilly asked Manning if reliving this weeks festivities about that night in Tampa, with the Colts traveling to face the Buccaneers this Monday night, is making him miss football.
“Absolutely” Manning replied. “I remember when the schedule came out, it was natural for this game to be on Monday night”. It’s hard to believe that it’s been eight years, and yeah it hurts not to be playing period, especially down there. I’ll be down there, but not on the field.
With the uncertainty of when Manning will be able to take the field again, Reilly asked Manning what the toughest pat of the whole process has been.
“Not being there with the guys” Manning said.”In the huddles, conversations with Jeff (Saturday) on the sidelines and on the line. You just don’t feel as much a part of it. I’m trying to help anyway I can, but it’s not the same.
With Speculation that Manning may never recover completely, or be the same on the field again, Reilly asked him if he’s thought about his future.
Manning replied, “I haven’t thought about it”
The Colts are 0-3 without the injured Manning, and are trying everything they can to compensate for his loss.
It hurts us, too!