Ahead of the New England Patriots' game next week against the Denver Broncos, quarterback Tom Brady discussed his relationship with future Hall of Famer Peyton Manning and called it a "special" rilvary. Brady also spoke about his teammates on offense, whom he said he "wouldn't change" for anybody.
With both quarterbacks nearing the end of their careers, it's uncertain how many more times fans will be able to see a Brady vs. Manning matchup. Brady, also aware of this, acknowledged the historical significance of their long-time rivalry.
"Probably five, six years ago you don't think about those things," Brady said Monday on WEEI. "But you're right, as you mature a little bit and realize this could always be the last one, then you do. It's pretty special. He's been one of the greatest players to ever play. I've been fortunate to share a field with one of the best players that ever has played the game. Every time we play a Peyton Manning-led team it comes down to the wire. Everything's usually at stake. ...
"Fortunately I don't have to go against him, our defense does."
While Manning continues to make history each game, Brady continues to get in sync with his offense. Ever since New England's blowout loss at Kansas City on Sept. 29, Brady and the offense have looked improved. In the four games since, Brady has passed for 1,268 yards, 14 touchdowns and zero interceptions.
Although Brady no longer has a star receiver to throw to, he wouldn't trade any one of his teammates for someone else.
"I love the guys that I play with," he said. "I wouldn't change anyone of them for anybody. The group that I've been lucky enough to play with - and I've had some great ones over the years. As a quarterback you work all offseason with a group of guys and you develop a chemistry and a camaraderie with each other, and it's great when it all pays off."
New England hosts Denver on Sunday at 4:25 p.m. ET.
