March 29, 2024

Eli the Rapper and Pitchman Gets a Thumbs Up From Some Big Critics

Of course, with Eli Manning being the video’s co-star — alongside brother Peyton — 89 Giants not named Manning quickly found comedic moments to pounce on. For instance, there was a possible record number of N.F.L. players in one room simultaneously humming.

The video was made by DirecTV and featured the Mannings wearing goofy wigs and dorky costumes and mouthing lines to a rap parody, “Football On Your Phone.” At one point, Eli jumped through a portrait of Alexander Graham Bell.

Filmed in New Orleans during the off-season, the video was released online to promote the satellite broadcaster’s mobile initiative for N.F.L. Sunday Ticket. Bryan Buckley, the video’s director, outfitted the Mannings in retro clothing intended to spoof 1980s music videos. By midday Wednesday, it had been viewed more than 2.7 million times on YouTube.

For the typically football-obsessed Eli Manning, the commercial is the latest in a growing list of side ventures. Jon Gieselman, senior vice president of marketing for DirecTV, said Manning’s appeal for advertisers goes beyond just his football résumé.

“A lot of the funny things that have shown up over the years have been sort of ad-libbed on his part, or expressions we weren’t expecting,” Gieselman said in a telephone interview. “He brings a lot. It’s not just a director telling him what to do and him following directions.”

Manning has been featured in commercial spots for Toyota, Dunkin’ Donuts and Reebok, along with a handful of prior ads for DirecTV. Gieselman said Manning’s ease in front of the camera has grown noticeably since he began working with him eight years ago.

“Practice makes perfect,” Gieselman said. “The more you do it, the more comfortable you get with it. He’s definitely gotten a lot more comfortable with it.”

Manning certainly did not appear bashful when he hosted “Saturday Night Live” in May 2012, and performed a skit in which he dressed in drag.

That, predictably, became a focal point for some ribbing from teammates. The new rap video rekindled that sort of teasing and clearly offered a release from the routine grind of camp.

“The dance was the worst part,” running back David Wilson said. “The football on your phone, the chorus, that’s the funniest part.”

Guard Chris Snee said: “I’ve never heard Eli sing, period. When he controls the radio, it’s usually country or something nobody else wants to listen to.”

Manning did not seem to enjoy talking about himself, shrugging, blushing and chuckling uncomfortably. He sounded relieved when he was finally asked about preparing for the Pittsburgh Steelers, whom the Giants face in their preseason opener on Saturday.

“I think I’ll stick with my day job,” Manning said.

At this point, with the off-field requests multiplying, Manning’s quarterbacking ability might begin to get overshadowed. Along with receiver Victor Cruz, who has done commercials for Time Warner Cable, Campbell’s Soup and Foot Locker, the Giants suddenly might have an acting duo on par with any team in professional sports.

But in these grueling summer months, sometimes it is beneficial to have a diversion. Once again, the understated Manning helped provide comic relief, with an assist from Coach Tom Coughlin.

“I’m not sure what the music awards are,” Coughlin said. “But I’m sure he’ll be in the running.”

EXTRA POINTS

The former safety Deon Grant officially retired as a Giant on Wednesday, after 11 seasons with four different teams. He did not play in 2012. His final game was Super Bowl XLVI, in which he made five tackles. … Justin Tuck (back tightness) sat out practice for precautionary reasons, Coach Tom Coughlin said.

Article source: http://www.nytimes.com/2013/08/08/sports/football/eli-the-rapper-gets-a-thumbs-up-from-some-big-critics.html?partner=rss&emc=rss