They share the same last name and ability to play quarterback in the NFL. But Peyton Manning and his younger brother, Eli, are not the same quarterback.
Peyton Manning, obviously, is more accomplished, having twice won NFL MVP honors. Eli Manning is entering his third season, coming off an up-and-down second year in which he started well but faded down the stretch.
Peyton Manning has built his game around his brain, which, combined with a strong arm, has worked well. Eli Manning was not known for his study habits when he entered the NFL. And it’s doubtful anyone watches as much film as his older brother. Also, Eli Manning is considered the better improviser of the two and probably more at ease in the fish bowl that is New York; Peyton is more robotic.
The older Manning has guided his team deep into the postseason, though never to the Super Bowl. The younger Manning is expected to achieve such heights any day now.
And this opener will be the first time the brothers, said to be close, will face each other in a game.
Both teams are coming off playoff seasons. Peyton Manning’s Indianapolis Colts won their first 13 games last year, but they flubbed once again in the playoffs, losing to Pittsburgh at home in the AFC divisional playoffs.
Since that game, they have lost one of the NFL’s best running backs in Edgerrin James, but they let him go because of their confidence in Dominic Rhodes. Also, the receiving corps remains strong.
The Giants lost badly to Carolina 23-0 in the first round of the playoffs. But they added defensive firepower — they hope — in linebacker LaVar Arrington and cornerback Sam Madison. They will try to pressure Peyton Manning all day; but if they don’t get him, he’ll make them pay.
Conversely, the Colts will try to make Eli Manning beat them with his head, disguising coverages. The game will provide a reminder as to the quarterbacks’ differences.
