The running is good actually, as good or better than in previous years when it was near the top. They're just running less in most games. Even the defense might do, today was an anomally just as it was for NE in their loss. None of the other good teams in the NFL are great, therefore no team has to be great in all areas to win.
It comes down to Manning making plays under pressure. No different from Elway; if he eventually gets it done after falling short, most of the negatives will be similarly forgotten.