With various annual NFL awards ballots already in hand, the end of the world as we know it looming on the Mayan calendar and the fast-approaching Fiscal Cliff, this might be the best -- or only -- time to examine honors candidates for the 2012 season. The most interesting debate is over who deserves the Comeback Player of the Year Award. The only real candidates are Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning and Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson, who also qualify as finalists in several categories. Manning returned from a year off and four neck surgeries to lead the Broncos …