In between the $2 million commercials, the best football player in the world will be working in front of the largest television audience of the year. He will probably be in a few of the commercials, too. Peyton Manning has cemented himself in a class by himself. He won his record-setting fourth MVP trophy this year, and will be attempting to win his second ring. The Indianapolis Colts beat the Chicago Bears in the Super Bowl following the 2006 season. Winning multiple rings is the only thing Manning hasn’t accomplished in the NFL. It’s the only thing that keeps him from being a unanimous choice as the greatest ever to play the position. By getting another ring, his resume is enhanced beyond the all-time greats. His cerebral approach to the game is what separates him. He has the numbers to back up the claim. He has started every game of his 12-year career. He led the Colts to the most wins by any team in the 2000s, but doesn’t have the rings to show for it.  Detractors harp on this fact, which makes this Super Bowl a must-win for Manning. The Colts as an organization also face pressure to cash this one in. Starting the season 14-0, the Colts had an opportunity to finish undefeated. Rookie head coach Jim Caldwell opted to concede wins in order to rest players and remain healthy for a Super Bowl run.  It was widely criticized because the Colts have rested in the past, only to appear rusty in the playoffs and not reach the Super Bowl. After looking sharp in the first two playoff games, Manning, who was born in New Orleans, faces a Saints team riding the emotions of a city that love its team. Hurricane Katrina is still in the minds of those in the bayou, and have put a lot of hopes and dreams into a Saints Super Bowl win. Drew Brees is the leader of “Who Dat” nation, and has established himself as one of the best QBs in the league. Boasting the highest-scoring offense in the league, the Saints have the firepower to match Manning. They’re just not as consistent and are playing in the franchise’s first Super Bowl. The Saints defense roughed up Favre two weeks ago and forced him into a couple of critical mistakes.  Getting pressure and hits on the quarterback will be the strategy again this week, but Manning doesn’t allow himself to take hits. The Saints must force turnovers, like they did against Minnesota, if they want to have a legitimate shot at winning.  As talented as the Saints are, lack of experience will play a factor. Just making the Super Bowl is a major accomplishment for the Saints organization. The Colts need this win more than the Saints and will win the game. And with that win, Peyton Manning adds to his legend and becomes the best quarterback in NFL history. And he’s still in his prime, with the opportunity to win more rings and break Favre’s records. Enjoy the hoopla, the game and the commercials.

 

Colts 30 Saints 24