No surprise here: Fox says Manning is his MVP

"We talk about that a lot, not coasting, pedal downhill," Fox said. "I appreciate him. I think that's a big reason why he's accomplished what he's accomplished, whether it's here or in Indianapolis. He's a tremendous competitor, doesn't let up. I think that's how you need to be to be successful."

Peterson is also coming off a major injury, a torn-up knee that knocked him out in December of last season, meaning he and Manning are also prime contenders for Comeback Player of the Year.

Brady, meanwhile, would be considered the third major candidate in the MVP voting.

In that case, voters would be choosing between:

—Peterson, a running back who made a remarkably fast comeback and, at present, has rushed for 1,898 yards and led a 3-13 team in 2011 to the verge of the playoffs in 2012.

—Brady, a quarterback who has more yards (4,543) but fewer touchdowns (32) than Manning and who also has a victory over Manning: New England's 31-21 win in October that marks the last time Denver lost.

—And, of course, Manning, who has engineered the league's longest winning streak and is turning a good team into a potentially great one.

Fox knows how he'd vote. But he said he's not in the business of lobbying.

"I was asked what I thought," he said, "and I told you."

Notes: Fox reported two injuries: KR Trindon Holliday (ankle) and CB Tracy Porter (concussion). ... Fox gave the Broncos a rare "Victory Monday" — the day off after a win. The team reports back to work Wednesday. ... With 65 yards receiving, WR Eric Decker joined Demaryius Thomas in the 1,000-yard club. The Broncos have their first 1,000-yard receiving duo since 2004. ... Denver moved up to fourth in overall offense and third in overall defense and, with a week left, remains the only team ranked in the top five in both categories.

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Online: http://pro32.ap.org/poll and http://twitter.com/AP_NFL