During the latter part of Eli Manning’s career, the debate started over whether or not the two-time Super Bowl champion would get the nod to be inducted into the Hall of Fame when he was eligible. Now, with his playing days in the rearview mirror, the debate continues.
While some of Manning’s accolades certainly put him in the conversation, many “Eli-haters” get stuck on his .500 record and usually fall back on the “well, if you take away the two Super Bowls” argument.
One of Manning’s former New York Giants teammates, kicker Lawrence Tynes, believes Eli happens to be more qualified for the Hall of Fame than a quarterback who will very likely get in on the first ballot: Aaron Rodgers.
Eli Manning is a more qualified Hall of Famer than Aaron Rodgers.
Bring all the smoke you want. I’m taking 10 over 12 anytime a game is on the line or the playoffs.
— 𝗟𝗮𝘄𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗧𝘆𝗻𝗲𝘀 (@lt4kicks) January 24, 2022
The former kicker’s tweet came following an early exit for the top-seeded Packers in the divisional round of this years playoffs, which included the a sub-par performance by Rodgers.
Tynes had another former teammate, Dave Tollefson, step in and offer some support for the argument.
I’m here for that smoke too brother!!! https://t.co/FZ1YoSydVw
— David Tollefson (@DTollefson71) January 24, 2022
Certainly, nobody is suggesting that Manning is more talented than Rodgers. However, in a game played to achieve the ultimate prize of winning a Super Bowl, Manning has two Super Bowl rings to Rodger’s one ring.
Manning’s postseason resume is impressive and includes one win at Lambeau Field over the Rodgers-led Green Bay Packers on their way to Super Bowl XLVI. However, Manning’s more impressive Super Bowl run was the earlier of the two when the Giants took down the undefeated New England Patriots in Super Bowl XLII.
When it’s all said and done, Manning will likely get the nod but the question is more how many years will it take.