The Real Manning Bowl

Mrs. Manning - Draft Analysis

I would dare say that the football gods have smiled upon both Peyton and Eli Manning. Well, for Peyton it was a big toothy grin, while for Elisha it was more of a half-hearted smirk...Smiles none-the-less.

And yes, everyone in the civilized world has heard the stories of Football's First Family: The cute little pickup games in the front yard, sibling rivalry, the endless cheese-dick commercials. All that without addressing the central issue...

Eli's recent engagement now begs the question that's been on everyone's mind: Which Manning recruited the best Wide Receiver (read: Wife)? The better half? As Dr. Phil says, a quarterback is only as good the one receiving his passes.

Without further ado, here's the talent...

Eli Manning Drafts fiancee, Abby McGrew - Brentwood, TN (Ole Miss)



First Impressions: Ole Miss, Typical Fake-blonde, Cleavage Enhancing Sunglasses are always a plus, Standard Issue Grove Sorority Girl?

Turns out, L.C. Abby is a material girl. She's in the fashion industry, and she lives near/with Eli in New Jersey. She went to High School at the uppity Tennessee, Football Factory, Brentwood Academy south of Nashville, but she seems to prefers Steve Madden to John Madden (huh?). A common disinterest for sports must have brought these two together. But is she more than just arm candy?


Peyton Manning drafts wife, Ashley Manning - Memphis, TN (UVA)



First Impressions: Girl Next Door, Bring home to Momma, Smart, Wholesome

There has to be something wrong with this girl. From this article, you'd think she was mother Teresa, Erin Brockovich and Jessica Biel all rolled into one. This quote was particularly impressive:

"The way I really help Peyton is that I don't demand a lot of his time," she says. "He's willing to give it, but I'm not the type of person that is nagging on him. I think that helps him. He's able to do what he needs to do and I'm very independent. I do a lot of my own things."

That's some big talk, but can she back it up?


Draft Analysis:

I gotta go with Peyton's choice, Ashley. She's what I like to call an All-purpose wife. On paper, she's a can't miss prospect. She makes all the throws, plus she's been able to avoid the off-the-field issues that have plagued so many other big time wives. Not to mention that she's from my neck of the woods. M-Town. Memphis, Tennessee.

Eli's pick, Abby has all the physical tools, however she's unproven in the spotlight. If she can keep her head on straight during her rookie season and improve her technique, she has the potential to become a stable contributor for years to come. Case in point: McGrew has plenty of upside, but on the surface, she appears to be somewhat of a project pick.


experience trumps youth once again