EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. (AP) — The streak for the most consecutive starts among active quarterbacks is going to stay in possession of the Manning family.
With Peyton Manning’s streak of 227 consecutive starts — including the postseason — coming to an end because of a neck injury, the new leader in the category is little brother, Eli, of the New York Giants. He has started 110 consecutive games and he will go for No. 111 in the season opener in Washington on Sunday.
“I don’t know what my number is,” Eli said. “You try to be out there every week and perform and be on the field with your teammates. It’s not something that I’m keeping track of.”
There have been times that Eli Manning was doubtful. But he overcame a shoulder injury in 2007 and a foot injury in 2009 to keep his streak alive.
“There have been a few down the road that it’s been a Friday decision or a gametime decision,” said Eli, who led the Giants to a Super Bowl title in February 2008, taking MVP honors. “That’s going to happen every once in a while. I always felt that I could go out there and perform at a high level and be the best option for the team.”
Eli Manning said he has not spoken with his brother in recent weeks because he knew Peyton had a lot on his mind.
“I don’t know how he is feeling and what’s going on,” he said. “I know he wants to be out there. He gave his all and he will give his all to be back out there.”
Eli was impressed with Peyton’s streak.
“If you can go through 13 years of not missing a game, that’s impressive,” he said, “no matter what position and what sport. Just playing for 13 years is impressive.”
Copyright 2011 The Associated Press.
