Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning, Miami Dolphins defensive end Cameron Wake and Oakland Raiders kicker Sebastian Janikowski have been named the AFC's top players for the month of October.
Manning, in his first year under center in Denver, earned offensive recognition by completing 77-of-104 passes for 951 yards and nine touchdowns while only being intercepted once in three games. The Tennessee product recorded at least 300 passing yards in each of the Broncos' October contests, finishing first in the AFC in completion percentage (74 percent) and passer rating (126.7).
The 36-year-old signal caller posted his fifth career monthly honor, on the heels of being voted the AFC's top offensive player for Week 6.
Wake picked up monthly defensive honors for the first time in his career. The fourth-year pro out of Penn State amassed nine tackles and tied for the conference lead with three sacks as Miami went perfect in its three games during the season's second month. He is the first Dolphins defensive end to take home a monthly award since Jason Taylor in November of 2006.
Janikowski was recognized for his superb special teams play, having booted 10 of his 11 field-goal attempts en route to 36 total points -- half of Oakland's October total in a 2-1 month. The Florida State product, who accumulated his fourth career monthly honor, connected on a 40-yard attempt in overtime to best the Jaguars on Oct. 21.
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