Giants vs. Patriots: How Eli Manning Accomplished What Brother Peyton Couldn't

If five years ago someone told you Eli Manning would win his second Super Bowl title before his brother Peyton, we would have all written them off as crazy. But during Super Bowl XLVI, the younger Manning brother did what Peyton couldn't during his last trip the the big game, and led his team to a huge comeback victory.

When he got his chance Eli took advantage of it. With his New York Giants trailing 17-15 with 3:46 remaining in the game and the ball on their own 12-yard line, Manning took charge and led a drive for the ages.

In nine plays, including several perfect passes, he took his offense 88 yards for the go-ahead score. He was poised, in command and made all the plays he needed to in order to ensure a 21-17 win over the New England Patriots. 

The win gave Manning his second Super Bowl ring in his second trip to the big game. His older brother, often lauded as possibly the greatest quarterback of all time, is one for two. 

Peyton had his chance to earn glory and a second world championship in Super Bowl XLIV. His Indianapolis Colts had a 17-13 lead midway through the third quarter. But the New Orleans Saints chipped away, then took a 24-17 lead with 5:42 remaining in regulation.

Manning and the Colts started the ensuing drive from their own 30-yard line and began a methodical march down the field.

Then they faced a third down and five at New Orleans' 31-yard line, and Manning tried to hit the reliable Reggie Wayne on a quick slant. Saints cornerback Tracy Porter read the play beautifully and jumped the route, intercepting the pass at the 26-yard line and returning it 74 yards for one of the most memorable plays in Super Bowl history.

Peyton couldn't get off the mat after that. Down 31-17 a final desperation drive ended inside New Orleans' five-yard line and he left the field knowing a second title had slipped from his grasp.

Where Peyton failed, Eli triumphed. I'm not going to be one of those reactionary crazies who are now claiming that Eli is better than his brother, because that's ridiculous. But it is certainly not insane to suggest that the younger brother has proven himself to be far better in clutch situations.