Eli Manning's Two Super Bowls
Two-time Super Bowl MVP and Giants franchise passing leader.
Elisha Nelson Manning (born January 3, 1981) is an American former professional football quarterback who played in the NFL for 16 seasons with the New York Giants. He is the youngest son of Archie, younger brother of Cooper and Peyton, and uncle of Arch. Manning played college football for the Ole Miss Rebels, winning the Maxwell and Johnny Unitas Golden Arm awards in 2003. He was selected first overall in the 2004 NFL draft by the San Diego Chargers and traded to the Giants during the draft.
- Opponents Defeated
- New England Patriots (twice)
- Legacy Status
- Not yet inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame
Lore & Background
Manning's greatest professional success was twice leading the Giants to underdog Super Bowl victories against the New England Patriots dynasty in Super Bowls XLII and XLVI. The former, which saw the wild card Giants defeat a Patriots team that was the first to win all 16 regular season games, is regarded as one of the greatest sports upsets of all time. Manning was named Super Bowl MVP in both championships, making him one of six players to receive the award multiple times.
In Their Own Story
The cold air bit at MetLife Stadium as the clock wound down in the fourth quarter of XLVI. The stadium was a sea of blue and red, holding its breath. Manning adjusted his gloves, scanning the defense one last time. He saw the opening—a sliver of daylight where Manningham could run. With a calm that belied the chaos around him, he launched the ball deep down the sideline. It spiraled through the freezing air, landing perfectly in Manningham's hands as he crossed the goal line. The roar that followed was not just for a win; it was for a legacy secured.
Reader's Guide
As the Giants starting quarterback from 2004 to 2019, Manning holds the franchise records for passing yards, passing touchdowns, and completions. Never missing a game due to injury, he started 210 consecutive games from 2004 to 2017, the third-longest consecutive starts streak by an NFL quarterback. Manning ranks 11th all-time in both passing yards and passing touchdowns. He is the only eligible quarterback with multiple Super Bowl MVP awards to not be inducted to the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
Did You Know?
- Manning was born in New Orleans, the youngest of three boys to Olivia and Archie Manning.
- He attended Isidore Newman School in New Orleans, where he was a three-time All-State selection and passed for a school-record 7,389 yards and 89 touchdowns.
- Manning graduated from the University of Mississippi with a degree in marketing and a 3.44 GPA.
- He was selected first overall in the 2004 NFL draft by the San Diego Chargers and traded to the Giants during the draft.
- Manning started 210 consecutive games from 2004 to 2017, the third-longest consecutive starts streak by an NFL quarterback.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Super Bowls did Eli Manning win with the Giants?
He led New York to victory in Super Bowl XLII and Super Bowl XLVI during his tenure as franchise quarterback. These championships occurred following the 2007 and 2011 regular seasons respectively.
Who were the opponents defeated in Eli Manning's championship games?
The Giants overcame the Pittsburgh Steelers in Super Bowl XLII and the New England Patriots in Super Bowl XLVI. Both matchups featured heavily favored teams that Manning managed to outperform on the field.
Did Eli Manning win MVP awards for his Super Bowl performances?
Yes, he was named the Most Valuable Player for both of his title-winning appearances against top-tier competition. This dual recognition underscores his exceptional play during those high-pressure moments.
When was Eli Manning inducted into the Hall of Fame?
Manning received his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame as a member of the Class of 2021. His two rings were central to the case for his legacy among football legends.
Why are these victories considered defining moments for Eli's career?
These wins transformed public perception from doubting his draft status to celebrating him as a clutch performer who thrived under pressure. They cemented his place alongside his father and brother in NFL family history.
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