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Colts quarterback Peyton Manning. He and the other leading candidate, the Saints' Drew Brees, have put up practically identical numbers. Manning has one less touchdown (16), but two fewer interceptions (five). He's got a slightly higher completion percentage (70.6 to Brees' 68.3), but a slightly lower yards-per-attempt average (8.13 to 8.82). But Manning's impressive play on third down puts him over the top in my mind. His 76.6 third-down completion percentage is the main reason the Colts are first in the league in third-down efficiency (51.0).
Saints safety Darren Sharper. Sharper is tied for the league lead in interceptions with seven, including three that he has returned for touchdowns. A close second: Vikings defensive end Jared Allen, who has three forced fumbles and is tied for the league lead with 10 1/2 sacks.
Brad Childress, Vikings. His team had all the parts to be a Super Bowl contender except a quarterback. He put his reputation on the line by hanging with Brett Favre through his spring-summer waffling. Then again, he knew he probably was going to get canned at the end of the season if he had to put Tarvaris Jackson or Sage Rosenfels behind center. So he really had no choice.
Vikings wide receiver Percy Harvin. He came with character issues, but so far, so good. He's got 28 receptions and three TD catches. He also has returned two kickoffs for touchdowns and is second in the league in kick returns with a 30.7 average. And, oh yeah, he's also rushed for 39 yards on eight carries out of the Wildcat.
Bills cornerback Jairus Byrd. The Bills may have screwed up in the first round with Aaron Maybin, but second-rounder Byrd has made an immediate impact. He's tied for the league lead in interceptions with seven. Close second: Texans linebacker Brian Cushing.
Don't be fooled by the rookie success of Joe Flacco and Matt Ryan last year. They are the exception rather than the rule. The college-to-pro transition is difficult for a quarterback, as the Jets' Mark Sanchez and the Lions' Matthew Stafford are discovering this season. Both have completion percentages below 54. Both have thrown more interceptions than touchdowns. And both are near the bottom of the league in passer rating.
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