Tom Brady, a name synonymous with NFL greatness, has often referred to Peyton Manning as the 'gold standard' of the quarterback position. This sentiment was palpable during Brady's induction into the Patriots Hall of Fame, where Manning honored his long-time rival and friend. The mutual respect between these two legends, forged through countless battles on the gridiron, is a testament to their impact on the sport and each other.
A Rivalry Born
When Tom Brady began his illustrious career as the New England Patriots' quarterback, Peyton Manning had already established himself as a formidable force, having taken the mantle from Brett Favre. It was only fitting that Brady's first NFL victory came against Manning's Indianapolis Colts, initiating one of the most storied rivalries in NFL history.
Their initial encounter set the stage for numerous memorable clashes. Brady won 11 of their 17 career matchups, while Manning held a slight edge in the playoffs with a 3-2 record. Manning also boasted a 3-1 record in AFC Championship games against Brady. Together, they accumulated nine Super Bowl titles, 14 conference championships, eight league MVP awards, and six Super Bowl MVP honors, solidifying their legacies as two of the greatest quarterbacks of all time.
Manning's Foxborough Struggles and Humor
During his speech at the Patriots Hall of Fame induction, Manning humorously touched on his struggles in Foxborough. "They liked me here ... because I always lost here," Manning joked, referring to his consecutive postseason losses in New England. Despite these challenges, Manning quipped that he is more popular in Foxborough than his brother Eli, illustrating his good-natured spirit and sense of humor.
Mutual Respect Between Two Legends
The mutual respect between Manning and Brady is unwavering. Brady has often expressed that he couldn't have become the player he was without Manning's influence. "I think that I could never have been the type of player that I was without having someone like Peyton that I aspired to be like," Brady remarked. "I looked at him as the gold standard for quarterback play, and I still do," he added.
Manning, in turn, acknowledged the high level of competition that Brady demanded. "You knew when you were playing against a Tom Brady team, you better be at your best, because if you weren't, Tom Brady was going to beat you every time," Manning said. This sentiment highlights the driving force behind their fierce rivalry and mutual admiration.
The bond between these two icons transcends the football field. Manning was honored to attend Brady's Patriots Hall of Fame induction, just as Brady was a guest at Manning's Pro Football Hall of Fame induction in 2021. "I'm honored to be here tonight," Manning said, adding, "And I promise I'll be there in a couple of years when he is there in Canton as well."
Quotes from the Legends
Manning's humorous take on his Foxborough legacy resonated with the audience. "They liked me here ... because I always lost here," he quipped. He also playfully asserted his popularity over his brother Eli in New England, saying, "I'm much more popular than Eli [Manning] here, I promise you that."
Brady, reflecting on Manning's influence, expressed deep respect for his rival. "I think that I could never have been the type of player that I was without having someone like Peyton that I aspired to be like," Brady said. "I looked at him as the gold standard for quarterback play, and I still do," he emphasized.
Manning, acknowledging the challenge of facing Brady, said, "You knew when you were playing against a Tom Brady team, you better be at your best, because if you weren't, Tom Brady was going to beat you every time." He concluded with heartfelt praise for Brady, saying, "I'm honored to be here tonight. And I promise I'll be there in a couple of years when he is there in Canton as well."
The careers of Tom Brady and Peyton Manning are inextricably linked, their mutual respect and admiration serving as a powerful reminder of the impact they have had on each other and the sport of football. Their rivalry was significant, but their bond—transcending the game itself—is a testament to their greatness both on and off the field.