Tom Brady considers Peyton Manning the NFL position's 'gold standard.' Peyton Manning honored Brady at his Patriots Hall of Fame induction, an occasion that marked yet another poignant moment in the storied rivalry and friendship between two of the NFL's greatest quarterbacks.
Brady paid homage to Manning's impact on his career, recognizing the immense influence his competitor had on him. Manning had already taken the mantle from Brett Favre when Brady started as the Patriots' quarterback. Interestingly, Brady's first NFL victory came against Manning's Colts, a win that would set the stage for their historic rivalry.
Manning's Foxborough Struggles and Humor
Manning, known for his sharp wit, joked about his lack of success in Foxborough, the home of the Patriots. He mentioned his consecutive postseason losses there, drawing laughter and understanding nods from the audience. Manning quipped that he is more popular in Foxborough than his brother Eli, further showcasing his good-natured humor despite the competitive nature of their matchups.
The Rivals' Career Stats
The statistics of their careers highlight the intensity of their rivalry. Brady won 11 out of 17 career matchups against Manning. However, in the playoffs, Manning managed to tilt the scales slightly with a 3-2 record against Brady-led teams. Notably, Manning held a 3-1 record in AFC Championship games against Brady.
Between them, they amassed some of the most staggering numbers in NFL history. Together, they won nine Super Bowls, 14 conference titles, eight league MVPs, and six Super Bowl MVPs. Such statistics not only underscore their individual greatness but also highlight the significant impact they had on each other's careers.
Mutual Respect Between Two Legends
The mutual respect between Manning and Brady is both heartfelt and well-documented. Brady has often stated that he couldn't have been the player he was without the challenge and inspiration Manning provided. "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 added.
Manning, too, has acknowledged the high standards set by 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," Manning said.
The respect is mutual and deeply personal. Manning was honored to be part of Brady's Patriots Hall of Fame ceremony. "I'm honored to be here tonight," Manning said during his speech. Brady had been a guest at Manning's Pro Football Hall of Fame induction in 2021, and Manning plans to reciprocate. "And I promise I'll be there in a couple of years when he is there in Canton as well," Manning said, further cementing their bond beyond the gridiron.
Brady and Manning's careers are celebrated not just for their statistical achievements but also for how they pushed each other to new heights. Their rivalry was significant, but their bond transcends football, and it is clear that they hold each other in the highest regard.
Quotes
"They liked me here ... because I always lost here," Manning joked, reflecting on his battles in Foxborough.
"I'm much more popular than Eli [Manning] here, I promise you that," Manning quipped, bringing a touch of humor to the otherwise serious gathering.
Brady’s admiration for Manning was evident: "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 confessed. "I looked at him as the gold standard for quarterback play, and I still do," he added.
Manning’s respect for Brady shone through his words: "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 acknowledged.
"I'm honored to be here tonight," Manning said, expressing his genuine admiration for Brady. "And I promise I'll be there in a couple of years when he is there in Canton as well," Manning concluded, promising to honor Brady as Brady had honored him. Their careers and mutual influence on each other remain a testament to their greatness and to the enduring significance of their rivalry and friendship.