The Denver Broncos are hitting their stride right now. Of course this team would not be in the position they are in without Peyton Maning, but Peyton would not be able to have the success he is having without his five buddies up front.

The Broncos starting offensive line consists of tackles Ryan Clady and Orlando Franklin, guards Zane Beadles and Chris Kuper, and center Dan Koppen.

Why am I talking about these five? They have been giving the award for Week 8's Madden Most Valuable Protectors Award, an award that honors the leagues top offensive line.

Winning this weekly award makes you a nominee for the year end award which is announced during the Super Bowl.

The award is defined as follows:

Serves to celebrate the loyal teammates in the trenches that most consistently provide the time and protection that is critical to their teammates' and overall team's success.

The group played a big role in Sundays game as the Broncos rushed for 225 yards and passed for 305. Clady also earned Sports Illustrated's Peter King's Offensive Lineman of the Week award.

Manning was not sacked Sunday.

Here are some numbers for the lineman this season.

Ryan Clady - 2 holds, 0 sacks allowed.

Zane Beadles - 1 False Start, 0 sacks allowed

Dan Koppen - 1 hold in 3 starts, 0 sacks allowed

Chris Kuper - 2 Starts, 0 penalties, 0 sacks allowed

Orlando Franklin - 3 False Starts, 1.5 Sacks Allowed

Manny Ramirez - 5 Starts, 2 Penalties (1 Hold), 3.5 sacks allowed