Tom Brady has always regarded Peyton Manning as the 'gold standard' for NFL quarterbacks. This mutual respect was on full display during Brady's induction into the Patriots Hall of Fame, where Manning honored him with a touching tribute. Brady, in turn, paid homage to Manning's significant impact on his career, forming a narrative of two legendary athletes who pushed each other to unparalleled heights.
A Rivalry Rooted in Respect
When Tom Brady started his career as the Patriots' quarterback, it was Peyton Manning who had taken the mantle from Brett Favre. Brady’s first NFL victory came against Manning's Colts, marking the beginning of what would become a historic rivalry. Despite the fierce competition, the two quarterbacks have maintained a deep respect for one another.
Brady won 11 out of 17 career matchups against Manning. However, the postseason told a different story, where Manning went 3-2 against Brady-led teams. Manning also held a 3-1 record in AFC Championship games against his rival. Collectively, their careers boast nine Super Bowls, 14 conference titles, eight league MVPs, and six Super Bowl MVPs.
Manning's Struggles in Foxborough
During the Hall of Fame ceremony, Manning brought humor to his speech by joking about his lack of success in Foxborough, where he faced consecutive postseason losses. "They liked me here... because I always lost here," Manning jested. He went on to quip, "I'm much more popular than Eli [Manning] here, I promise you that."
Despite these struggles, Manning always knew that facing a Brady-led team required nothing less than his absolute best. "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 reflected.
Mutual Admiration and Influence
The mutual respect between Manning and Brady is evident and profound. Brady himself acknowledges that he couldn't have reached his level of success without the influence and competition from Manning. "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."
The admiration is mutual, as Manning has always expressed his respect for Brady's talents and accomplishments. "I'm honored to be here tonight," he said at the ceremony, acknowledging the significant influence Brady had on his career.
A Lasting Legacy
Both quarterbacks have consistently attended each other’s career milestones. Brady was a guest at Manning's Pro Football Hall of Fame induction in 2021, and Manning has promised to return the gesture. "And I promise I'll be there in a couple of years when he is there in Canton as well," Manning stated, ensuring their bond would transcend their playing years.
Brady and Manning's rivalry was more than just competition; it was a narrative of two athletes who made each other better. Their influence on each other is undeniable, shaping the landscape of the NFL for nearly two decades. As their careers are celebrated and their legacies cemented, it becomes clear that their bond goes beyond football, rooted in mutual respect and admiration.