Eli ?

Only two hours or so to go until kickoff of the Superbowl. Although I watch this game every year I usually don't have much of a rooting interest in either team. Most often, I only hope for a close game. I don't really care who wins. But this year I find myself rooting hard for the Giants.

And it's all because of Eli.

I'm not unlike a lot of other Mississippians. The Mannings have a special place in many of our hearts. Especially Eli and Archie. And add to the fact that the Manning roots originate just 15 miles from my hometown, I feel even more of a kinship to them. They still have family here in the Delta, and so many of Archie's former high school classmates are living here in Cleveland. It's great fun to hear first hand stories of his high school exploits.

A sobering, but admittedly truthful article was written about Archie's hometown of Drew recently by Time-Picayune columnist Billy Turner. You can read it here. It is sad and heartwarming at the same time and gives you great insight into how this family has been shaped.

So while again I want a great game, this year I wouldn't mind a blowout. Just so long as it's in the Giant's favor.