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Peyton Manning: Patriots Fans 'Should Miss Me'

Bryan Altman

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. (CBS4) - Peyton Manning's retirement speech covered a wide swath of the emotional spectrum. Manning was insightful, tearful, joyful, optimistic, and reflective over the course of a lengthy and often teary-eyed retirement speech he made today at the Broncos' team headquarters in Englewood.

But one of the most memorable quotes from Manning centered on his arch rivals to the Northeast for the better part of his decorated 18-year career.

While Manning made sure to recall all of the great coaches and players he's gone up against over nearly two decades, including the "coaches like Fisher, Ryan and Belichick," he made sure to specifically acknowledge the New England Patriots and their fans as well.

Peyton Manning Retires
Peyton Manning with former teammates (credit: CBS)

"And I'll even miss the Patriots fans in Foxboro, and they should miss me," Manning said. "Because they sure did get a lot of wins off of me."

Even before Tom Brady took over for Drew Bledsoe, the Patriots had No. 18's number. Manning went 6-13 against the Patriots during the regular season over the course of his career. However, even after being derided for not getting it done in the playoffs at times, Manning finished 3-2 against nemesis Tom Brady in postseason play, including besting New England in the last two postseasons when their two teams met.

But as you'd expect, Manning gave his greatest rival a special, heartfelt nod in his speech as well.

"I'll miss the handshakes with Tom Brady," Manning said.

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