Popcorn Pass: Old Man Manning Wants Two Thumbs Up From the Broncos' Rookies
In a recent interview conducted from the rocking chair on his porch, Peyton Manning admitted to having trouble connecting with the kids:
"The past few years, as I've reached my elder years as a quarterback in the NFL, I've kind of tried to get to know these rookies and tried to get on the same page with them." Between an anecdote about the war and a wheezing fit, Manning added, "But what I'm finding out is we don't speak the same language because we don't know the same favorite movies."
Ergo, the four time MVP and senior coupon collector has commanded the newbies to view Betamax copies of his five fave films: 'Vacation', 'Fletch', 'Stripes', 'Caddyshack' and 'The Jerk'.
On the surface, this would seem a simple, thoughtful gesture from a doddering football codger trying to reach out to the younger generation. But with the workaholic Manning, nothing is ever whimsical or devoid of a deeper purpose. To that end, let's examine the real reasons Number 18 wants his greenhorns to see these shows:
'Vacation': The Griswolds' ill-fated journey to Wally World is clearly a metaphor for the pitfalls of the Super Bowl path. From porn mags to Ferrari blondes to dead aunts to shifty Eddies, many challenges stand in the way of your quest.
'Fletch': The art of disguise is the message here. Fletch's catalogue of faces can be compared to the offense's playbook; deception and subterfuge are essential to convince on-rushing defensive linemen that their (Chevy) chase of the QB is in vain.
'Stripes': Peyton wants his youngbloods to know that even though he may never again be their big arm, he will always be their big toe.
'Caddyshack': Be the ball ... Except if you're the ball being thrown back foot, across the body.
'The Jerk': No real subtext here - ol' Number 18 just letting the first-years know they, like Eric Decker, are billed for his time.
So, Rooks, watch and learn. And if you're quick to get on the same page as Peyton, he might even spare you having to watch 'Spies Like Us'.