I was recently in a deli ordering a sandwich for lunch, and had to make a big decision — wheat, rye, ciabatta or baguette? Hmmmm, I like whole wheat a lot, but sometimes there’s something delicious and fulfilling about a baguette. And tuna on rye is always a winner. Tough decision. In some situations or with some sandwich choices, I really prefer one roll over another. Moral of the story — know your rolls.
Watching Super Bowl 50 was another lesson in knowing your role. Peyton Manning, one of the best quarterbacks in NFL history, knew his role. In perhaps an ironic twist of football fate, Manning did not have to do much to help this team. In the past, remember when Manning had to carry the load, slinging the ball all over the field, to Marvin Harrison, Reggie Wayne, or Dallas Clark, scoring touchdowns, racking up passing yards or other stats? He would do so much, and still often end up on the wrong side of the scoreboard in big games, and was also 1-2 in his first three Super Bowls.
Now of course, Peyton is an incredible player, his football intellect up there with the best, his audibles legendary (“Omaha!”), and his dedication to his craft, and pursuit of excellence unmatched. Who in their right mind would come back after not one, not two, but three neck surgeries at the already advanced athletic age of 35? Who would still be subjecting their body to that much punishment at age 39? Yes, Peyton is now the oldest quarterback to start in the Super Bowl, taking the record from his own GM John Elway. poetic justice there.
Even with being out for a chunk of this season, Peyton took the ball in week 17, and knew his role big-time. Manage the game, protect the football, give the defense a breather, move it on the ground, use the clock effectively. Score just enough to let the defense shut it down & bring it home. No need for long passes, risky throws, or acrobatics. Know your role.
Peyton knew his role and performed it almost flawlessly, especially the last two games v. the Patriots and Panthers. In the post-game pressers, he spoke of how grateful he was to be a part of this, to contribute to this group of grinders, resilient, & unselfish players. It was an emotional week, with everything on the line, this season, plus his legacy. There’s always the risk of losing in sports. Peyton stared it all down, and played his role to perfection, letting his defense carry him over the goal line to his 2nd Lombardi trophy. Moral of this story — if you know your role, and trust your team, good things will happen.
