The debate raged for years during the most bitter and beautiful rivalry I've seen in professional football, who was better Manning or Brady. The focus was mainly on the players to a good degree as it should be but there many other factors that play into this debate
I have heard many wonder if Peyton would have been considered far greater than Tom had he had a great defense.
I think not.
From seeing it up close and personal for over 20 years I think it is the fundamental difference is in organizational philosophy, not just the defense.
The team of Kraft and Hoodie are second to none in NFL history. This organization just bleeds and breeds success flowing from its fundamental principles.
Bill, I assert afforded Brady the environment, coaches, and direction to develop and he handled him to perfection, it's what he does, gets the most out of all his players.
That takes nothing away from Tom cuz it was on him to develop in that situation. It was his heart, fire, and driven determination that made him the GOAT.
I have seen only one other player with Tom's level of drive and incredible will to win and that was Michael Jordan.
One major difference though, MJ was phenomenally gifted athletically, Brady, not so much. LOL.
But much like Tom, he had that fire and they were more clutch than any other players I can think of. When it’s all on the line they kick it into another insane gear, a level of focus and athletic skill second to none, and nailed it far more often than not.
Peyton had the gifts and the pedigree and training but it seems he was lacking somewhere in that realm. Still a helluva QB. One of the greatest to ever toss a pigskin.
Bottom line, Brady started out solid, developed into the all-world player, second to none but it was Bob Kraft and Bill Belichick who created the culture of winning and the perfect environment for Brady.
Now, as the dynasty enters its 3rd iteration let’s see what they do with Mac Jones. He has every chance and skill to be one of the all-time greats. It’s up to him.
I have heard many wonder if Peyton would have been considered far greater than Tom had he had a great defense.
I think not.
From seeing it up close and personal for over 20 years I think it is the fundamental difference is in organizational philosophy, not just the defense.
The team of Kraft and Hoodie are second to none in NFL history. This organization just bleeds and breeds success flowing from its fundamental principles.
Bill, I assert afforded Brady the environment, coaches, and direction to develop and he handled him to perfection, it's what he does, gets the most out of all his players.
That takes nothing away from Tom cuz it was on him to develop in that situation. It was his heart, fire, and driven determination that made him the GOAT.
I have seen only one other player with Tom's level of drive and incredible will to win and that was Michael Jordan.
One major difference though, MJ was phenomenally gifted athletically, Brady, not so much. LOL.
But much like Tom, he had that fire and they were more clutch than any other players I can think of. When it’s all on the line they kick it into another insane gear, a level of focus and athletic skill second to none, and nailed it far more often than not.
Peyton had the gifts and the pedigree and training but it seems he was lacking somewhere in that realm. Still a helluva QB. One of the greatest to ever toss a pigskin.
Bottom line, Brady started out solid, developed into the all-world player, second to none but it was Bob Kraft and Bill Belichick who created the culture of winning and the perfect environment for Brady.
Now, as the dynasty enters its 3rd iteration let’s see what they do with Mac Jones. He has every chance and skill to be one of the all-time greats. It’s up to him.
Last edited: