Andrew Luck scouted by Colts days after Peyton Manning’s surgery?

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I’m not one to start conspiracy theories -- I merely want to point out a few facts about the quarterback situation with the Indianapolis Colts:

1. Last week, veteran quarterback Peyton Manning underwent neck surgery and could be out for a long time. Some are calling it a career-threatening situation for the four-time NFL MVP.

2. Colts vice chairman Bill Polian was on hand Saturday for Stanford’s game at Duke. Cardinal quarterback Andrew Luck is expected to be the top pick in next year’s NFL draft.

3. The Colts looked really bad in their 34-7 loss to the Houston Texans in Sunday’s season opener. Really, really bad.

Kind of makes you think, doesn’t it? After all, isn’t Luck supposed to be the best quarterback coming out of college since ... I don’t know, Peyton Manning? And doesn’t the NFL team with the worst record get the top draft pick? And did anyone expect the Colts to look that bad without Manning?

Hmmmm ...

Obviously, it’s pure speculation (with tongue in cheek, of course). I also should probably point out that Polian’s son, Brian, is Stanford’s assistant special teams coordinator. And that the family’s home is in Charlotte, N.C. And that the Colts have scouted top college quarterbacks before.

Plus, Manning could come back better than ever.

But if he doesn’t ... well, let’s just say the Colts could definitely use a little Luck.

ALSO:

Cam Newton: Is he the next Peyton Manning?

NFL Week 1: What was the biggest surprise?

Tony Romo getting bashed after Dallas Cowboys’ loss to N.Y. Jets

-- Chuck Schilken