2015 ESPY Predictions: Winners, Losers, & The In-Betweens

The Best Breakthrough Performance Was…

Jan 11, 2015; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning (18) throws a pass during the NFL divisional playoff game against the Indianapolis Colts at Sports Authority Field at Mile High Stadium. The Colts defeated the Broncos 24-13. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Records are meant to be broken and these athletes have done just that.

The nominees for Best Breakthrough Performance are Lauren Chamberlain hitting her 91st home run in NCAA softball, Devin Hester scores his 20th return touchdown, Peyton Manning throwing his 509th TD pass, Klay Thompson going off for 37 points in a quarter.

All of these accomplishments deserve to win, but like in every sport, there is a winner and a loser.  Since there have been so many great quarterbacks over the years, I am choosing Peyton Manning.  Just think of the number 509.

This is a lot of touchdowns.

Coming out of the University of Tennessee, Manning was absolutely great, but people thought he didn’t have the arm strength.  He might not have had the best arm, but he was sure the smartest player on the field, and his numbers speak for themselves.

Next: Breakthrough Athlete