Despite a reported drop in interest, the Manning brothers returned for another installment of “ManningCast,” offering plenty of witty banter alongside their football discussions.

The alternative viewing experience for “Monday Night Football,” featuring Peyton and Eli Manning, initially captured audiences for ESPN when it launched in 2021. However, the premiere of the 2024 season saw the lowest ratings to date. While it’s unclear why interest has dipped, the strong ratings for the regular telecast of the 49ers vs. Jets may suggest viewers are either tiring of the brothers or prefer established commentators like Joe Buck and Troy Aikman.

Nevertheless, the Mannings continue with their show. Although the lineup wasn’t as star-studded as the first week, it still had notable guests, including regular Bill Belichick and Matt Ryan, who faced off against the Patriots in Super Bowl 51, alongside passionate Eagles fan and actor Miles Teller.

Belichick’s participation showcased improvement from his previous appearance, where he often interrupted the Mannings. This time, the conversation flowed well, and he seemed to enjoy it, displaying his characteristic bluntness and critiques.

Here are some key takeaways from Week 2 of “ManningCast.”

Belichick Calls Philadelphia ‘Sometimes the City of Unbrotherly Love’

Philadelphia fans are notorious for their passionate support, which Belichick knows well from playing two Super Bowls against the Eagles—one victory and one defeat. When asked about the atmosphere at Lincoln Financial Field, he remarked, “It’s sometimes the city of unbrotherly love. But they were nice to me tonight.”

Looking back on his first Super Bowl against Philadelphia—Super Bowl 39—Belichick recalled underestimating Terrell Owens due to an injured ankle. The team doctor had assured him Owens would struggle, but a significant reception in the first quarter proved otherwise. Belichick quipped, “‘Can’t run? He looks like the best player on the field,'” which forced the Patriots to alter their defensive strategy.

Belichick also humorously reflected on his three Super Bowl losses, stating that he has dartboards featuring the faces of both Eli Manning and Nick Foles, showing that the younger Manning’s data often struck a chord.

Belichick Revisits Super Bowl 51

With the Falcons in focus, Belichick discussed the remarkable 25-point comeback in Super Bowl 51. He recalled Julio Jones’ incredible catch in the fourth quarter, likening it to previous iconic receptions that cost his team championships. After the match, seeing the replay play on a hotel screen, he couldn’t help but watch to confirm his team was victorious, joking, “Maybe that was just a dream.”

Notably, there were no questions directed at Ryan about his Super Bowl experience—a potential source of lingering discomfort.

Miles Teller Throws Shade at Eli Manning?

As a devoted Eagles fan, Teller has certainly expressed his disdain for Eli Manning and the Giants. The Mannings showed a (genuine) photo of Teller flashing a double middle finger at Manning.

“That’s a real photo. I wish I had four hands,” Teller playfully stated.

Matt Ryan Accurately Predicts Touchdown

Ryan’s correct call that the Eagles would execute the “tush push” at the one-yard line earned him a spot on the highly sought-after predictions panel. Though Peyton Manning joked about Ryan’s intentions, Eli confirmed his brother’s accurate guess.