Tom Brady considers Peyton Manning the NFL position's 'gold standard.'
During his Patriots Hall of Fame induction, Tom Brady paid tribute to his long-time rival and friend, Peyton Manning. Manning, who had passed the quarterback mantle to Brady after Brett Favre, was acknowledged as being instrumental to Brady's illustrious career. The camaraderie and mutual respect between Brady and Manning underscore their profound impact on each other's professional journeys.
The Genesis of a Rivalry
Brady's inaugural NFL victory was against Manning's Colts, marking the beginning of what would become one of the most historic rivalries in football history. Over the years, their matchups have been nothing short of legendary, with Brady winning 11 out of their 17 encounters. However, Manning notably held his own in the playoffs, boasting a 3-2 record against Brady-led teams and a 3-1 advantage in AFC Championship games.
Manning's Foxborough Struggles and Humor
During his speech, Manning humorously acknowledged his struggles in Foxborough, highlighting his consecutive postseason defeats there. "They liked me here ... because I always lost here," he joked, eliciting laughter from the audience. He also quipped about his relative popularity in Foxborough compared to his brother, Eli, saying, "I'm much more popular than Eli [Manning] here, I promise you that."
A Tale of Career Achievements
Between them, Brady and Manning have amassed a staggering nine Super Bowl victories, 14 conference titles, eight league MVPs, and six Super Bowl MVPs. These figures are a testament to their dominance and excellence in the league, setting benchmarks for future generations of quarterbacks.
Mutual Respect Between Two Legends
The mutual respect between Manning and Brady is palpable. Brady candidly expressed how integral Manning was to his development as a player, stating, "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." He continued, "I looked at him as the gold standard for quarterback play, and I still do." Manning reciprocated the sentiment, acknowledging the challenges posed by playing against Brady. "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 remarked.
Their rivalry transitioned into a profound respect and admiration for one another. Brady was present at Manning's Pro Football Hall of Fame induction in 2021, and true to his word, Manning attended Brady's ceremony and promised, "And I promise I'll be there in a couple of years when he is there in Canton as well."
The Legacy Beyond the Field
Brady and Manning's careers and mutual influence have left an indelible mark on the NFL. Their rivalry was more than just on-field competition; it was a testament to their dedication, hard work, and unwavering competitiveness. Together, they pushed the boundaries of what was possible in their positions, raising the bar for excellence in quarterback play.
As both legends look back on their storied careers, their bond transcends the sport, symbolizing the spirit of sportsmanship and mutual admiration. Their legacy is not just defined by the records they set or the titles they won, but also by the respect they have for each other and their contribution to the game of football.
In honoring each other, Brady and Manning have shown that their rivalry was never just about competition; it was about making each other better and setting an example for future generations. As they continue to celebrate each other's achievements, their friendship remains a cornerstone of their remarkable journeys in the NFL.