He’s back–at least in commercials. Peyton Manning, the endorsement king, already has had plenty of air time with all of his various commercials.

However, for the networks, the big payoff comes if Peyton Manning can become Peyton Manning again on the field.

In the very fortunate department, NBC lands his first regular-season game since 2010 with Pittsburgh at Denver Sunday. The game was slated for primetime prior to Manning signing with the Broncos in the spring.

So you can figure two elements were in play: The NFL had a hunch the quarterback would go to Denver; or Tim Tebow would be the starting QB for the Broncos. Never underestimate the Tebow factor.

NBC obviously is thrilled to have Manning’s return. Even though it’s early, I asked NBC Sports chairman Mark Lazarus if it is possible the game could set a new Sunday night ratings record of 27.6 million viewers.

“We know the anticipation will be there,” Lazarus said. “If the game holds up, and he has a great game, there’s always a chance. But it is difficult to predict.”

CBS definitely will be paying close attention. The network, which has the AFC package, will cash in if Manning returns to form. Houston-Denver already is slated for the national afternoon doubleheader slot for week 3, and Denver-New England–Manning vs. Tom Brady–is down for week 5.

And there’s much more down the line, if Manning is Manning. A big if, to be sure.