ESPN NFL

Posted by ESPN.com’s Paul Kuharsky

Another Monday, another Colts’ win, another fantastic numerical breakdown of Peyton Manning.

This one comes from Justin Ray of ESPN Stats & Information.

While Manning didn’t eclipse 300 yards for the first time this season, he picked the St. Louis Rams apart making it apparent again that his offensive line and quick decision-making key a large degree of the Colts’ pass attack.

Manning has been sacked just twice in six games -- that puts him on pace for 5.3 sacks this season, and prompts us to look at the best pass protection seasons in league history.

Fewest times sacked in a season when starting 16 games at QB Year Player Times sacked Passer rating 1988 Dan Marino, Miami 6 80.8 1991 Mark Rypien, Washington 7 97.9 1979 Doug Williams, Washington Tampa Bay 7 52.5 2003 Joey Harrington, Detroit 9 63.9 1989 Dan Marino, Miami 10 76.9 >>Manning so far: 2 times sacked, 114.5 passer rating this year

Manning has never been sacked fewer than 13 times in a season. That came in 2004, when he threw 49 touchdown passes and had a passer rating of 121.1, both career-highs. Manning was sacked only 14 times last season despite injuries and upheaval on the Colts’ offensive line.

Peyton Manning, fewest times sacked in a season Year Times sacked Passer rating 2004 13 121.1 1999 14 90.7 2006 14 101.0 2008 14 95.0

According to Elias, Manning has been hit only 14 times all season. Around the league, 10 quarterbacks have been sacked 14 or more times. Aaron Rodgers has been sacked 25 times.