“I Have a Lot of Respect for What He Is Able to Do”: Tom Brady Speaks Fondly About His Infamous Rival in a Old Book

Tom Brady vs. Peyton Manning. Arguably one of the greatest rivalries in the NFL. The two quarterbacks have had careers that have set them apart from almost everyone in the league.

Both quarterbacks have had stellar careers. Brady is still kicking. They set themselves apart from their contemporaries so much so that they have become each others’ rivals.

Tom Brady on Peyton Manning

Tom Terrific and The Sheriff have been compared by virtually everyone who’s laid eyes on either of them playing. Both the field generals have been judged on their passing, their leadership on the field, and their abilities to not just be players of the game. The true point of comparison between the two generational players comes from their ability to be the game-winners for their teams. The rivalry between the two has always been strong, but surprisingly, they’ve never been hostile or wary of each other.

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In the book, ‘Brady vs Manning: The Untold Story of the Rivalry That Transformed the NFL’, Tom Brady talks about Peyton Manning with a lot of fondness. Referring to Peyton’s year in 2013, Brady said, “I have a lot of respect for him and what he is able to do. I think it’s more of an appreciation, especially for a year like he had in 2013, the best year in the history of all NFL quarterbacks.” 

Brady firmly believes that Peyton’s season in 2013 was the best year a quarterback can have. Notably, Manning recorded 55 touchdowns, 5,447 yards, and 10 interceptions all in 16 games.  The rivals turned friends have a great relationship. They even poke fun at each other occasionally on Twitter. Brady had posted a video on Twitter making fun of a video of Manning.

Brady also spoke about how their competition and their friendship have impacted each other. He said, “When you are competing, it’s a whole different story. But it’s not like we’re boxers and we’re throwing punches at one another.”  From the way Brady speaks about Manning, it is clear that there is a great amount of respect and love between the two.

Manning’s career and his comments on Brady

Peyton Manning had a great career when he played in the NFL. He ranks 3rd on the all-time list in terms of touchdown passes with 539 passes. He has also won two Super Bowls and has been the NFL MVP 5 times. Even Manning has shared his public responses in support of Brady. When Brady had announced his retirement, Manning had issued a statement with nothing but love for his contemporaries.

Arguably, two of the greatest quarterbacks to play the game, are not just respectful rivals, but are also really good friends. In an era of competitive sports rivalries, Brady and Manning embody the positive spirit of the game and set examples for players that look up to them.

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