Hall of fame quarterback and ESPN analyst Peyton Manning knows why Joe Flacco is enjoying success with the Browns after essentially coming off the couch to resume his NFL career at the age of 38.
In appearance on the show "Pardon the Interruption," Manning lauded Flacco's unflappability.
"I'll tell ya, it's been impressive. Joe Flacco never sweats ," Manning said to co-host Tony Kornheiser. "He's as calm in the fourth quarter of a tight ball game as he is in preseason warmups."
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That indeed was on display in Flacco's 311-yard, three touchdown performance in a win over the Jacksonville Jaguars last week.
He's earned the respect of teammates who've referred to him as elite .
But Flacco's veteran status and Super Bowl title has earned him that and Manning believes that's earned him leeway when working with coach Kevin Stefanski.
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"It's hard for a young quarterback to come in and tell the coach 'I don't like those plays. These are the ones I like,'" Manning said. "A veteran quarterback like Joe Flacco can say that. I think he did that with Kevin Stefanski, and good for Kevin for saying 'You got it Joe. We want you to be comfortable.'"
Stefanski is obviously comfortable with Flacco, announcing earlier this week that the veteran would quarterback the team for the rest of the season, ensuring that the Browns' playoff prospects land squarely on his shoulders.
This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: 'It's been impressive': Peyton Manning praises Browns QB Joe Flacco
