The first overall pick in the NFL draft one day, featured in a Super Bowl commercial in the Ad Meter ratings the next—or, at least, a few seasons down the road.
While the NFL is no stranger to the Super Bowl commercial world and USA TODAY Ad Meter, holding that distinction in pop culture history is to be in rare company.
Since the Ad Meter ratings began in 1989, several memorable spots have cast a top NFL draft selection, beginning with Bo Jackson’s cameo in this 1990 Nike ad.
From there, the NFL and few brands have tapped the No. 1 pick as part of the cast, with one family holding repeated billing: The Mannings.
From the Ad Meter vault, these are our three favorite Ad Meter commercials that have starred Peyton, Eli, or both.
Honorable Mention – Caesars Sportsbook: “Sit Down Dinner” | Super Bowl 56 — 2021
Caesars Sportsbook’s Super Bowl commercial debut didn’t resonate with Ad Meter panelists—for whatever the reason—finishing 38th of 64 ads. But we’d be remiss not to include it as the pinnacle achievement of the Brothers Manning in Super Bowl commercials.
Not only are Peyton and Eli at the dinner table, but so is their dad, Archie, who really could have made for a fun trivia fact had the Patriots selected him No. 1 overall back in 1971 and not Jim Plunkett.
Alas, this commercial provided us with two top NFL draft choices. (And yes, there is also Cooper Manning, who does an excellent job going with the punchline.)
3. NFL: “The 100-Year Game” | Super Bowl 53 — 2019
An all-time classic, the NFL’s 2019 ad created a fumblerooski for the ages, leading to one of the wildest recovery attempts in history. And in the mix was Peyton Manning, who still had enough in the right arm to complete a pass (while wearing a tuxedo, no less).
The commercial was also a hit with Ad Meter panelists that year, taking the 2019 top spot out of 58 ads.
2. Michelob ULTRA: “Welcome to Superior Bowl” | Super Bowl 56 — 2021
The nostalgia was in full force for Michelob ULTRA’s two Super Bowl commercials in 2021, with this homage to “The Big Lebowski” and “Kingpin” setting the stage for an incredible cast of athletes hitting the bowling lanes.
At the forefront with a confident strut? Yep, Peyton Manning, who picks up a beer and some anti-fungal-sprayed shoes before working his magic with a bright-orange bowling ball.
Game. Set… Serena?!
1. NFL: “Touchdown Celebrations to Come” | Super Bowl 52 — 2018
Eli might not have the comedic-timing cred’ that Peyton has achieved, but he has earned the bragging rights for the best “Manning” commercial in the Ad Meter ratings.
The NFL’s 2018 ad was equal parts hilarious and nostalgic, a reboot of the iconic “Dirty Dancing” scene complete with the catchy score by Bill Medley and Jennifer Warnes.
The commercial finished second that year—just behind an Amazon Alexa who lost her voice—but still is a true classic in Super Bowl commercial history.
And… in No. 1 overall NFL draft pick history as well.
