Reggie was talking about how the losing season changed his perspective. In short, he appreciates each game more. Another way to interpret this is he is hungrier for wins, which is hard to believe. Remember this is lunch bucket Wayne who has taken above average talent and physical attributes and worked his tail off to become a great, top tier receiver. His comments seemed sincere and heartfelt. This sentiment surprised me and led me to think about how Peyton will react to the season.

If Manning returns to 98% and plays again, I think that he too will bring a new, increased hunger to his game, and that is downright scary. Every year when reading discussions about coaching, I see the argument that the players are professionals and do not need external motivation. This is true to a certain degree, but great coaching can squeeze that additional % out of a team that puts them over the top.

In addition to a new level of intensity and play from Manning (again, just plain scary), having football taken away from him for an entire season, and staring squarely at a premature end of his entire career, could result in Manning playing longer, and at a higher level than had this season not occurred. Resting his body for a year might also add to this extended career scenario.

I know this is a team sport, but if Manning is 100% in February, we are going to the Super Bowl again.