The Manning family connects the starting quarterbacks of Ohio State and Notre Dame football.

As the excitement builds for the highly anticipated clash between Ohio State and Notre Dame, one fascinating connection that has emerged involves the Manning family, a dynasty synonymous with quarterback greatness. The Mannings, who have dominated the NFL quarterback scene for decades, have a surprising link to the starting quarterbacks of both powerhouse college football programs. This connection underscores the profound influence the Manning family continues to have on the sport at all levels, from high school to college to the NFL.

Both Ohio State and Notre Dame are among the most storied programs in college football history, with passionate fanbases and a long history of success. However, it’s not just their tradition, talent, and game-day atmospheres that have captivated fans, but also a shared connection that binds their starting quarterbacks in ways that might surprise some. The Manning family, led by legendary quarterbacks Archie, Peyton, and Eli, has ties to both Kyle McCord, Ohio State’s starting quarterback, and Sam Hartman, Notre Dame’s quarterback, bringing an extra layer of intrigue to what is already a highly anticipated matchup.

The Manning Legacy

Before diving into the specific connections to McCord and Hartman, it’s important to understand the scope of the Manning family’s influence on the football world. The patriarch, Archie Manning, a former NFL quarterback with the New Orleans Saints, set the foundation for what would become one of the most influential families in football history. His sons, Peyton and Eli, would go on to dominate the NFL, both winning multiple Super Bowl titles and becoming future Hall of Fame inductees.

Peyton Manning, widely considered one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history, earned a reputation for his football IQ, leadership, and record-breaking performances. His success at the University of Tennessee laid the groundwork for his illustrious career with the Indianapolis Colts and later the Denver Broncos. Peyton’s ability to read defenses, his work ethic, and his cerebral approach to the game made him a model for quarterbacks everywhere.

Eli Manning, while often overshadowed by his older brother Peyton, carved out his own legacy in the NFL, winning two Super Bowl championships with the New York Giants and being named Super Bowl MVP twice. Eli’s calm demeanor and clutch performances, particularly in high-stress situations, cemented his status as one of the great quarterbacks in NFL history.

The Manning family’s influence doesn’t end with the NFL. Through their company, Manning Passing Academy, and various other endeavors, the Mannings have also had a significant impact on college football. The family’s emphasis on quarterback development has resonated throughout the football world, and their connection to some of the most talented young quarterbacks in the college ranks is a testament to their ongoing influence.

Kyle McCord: Ohio State’s Star QB

Kyle McCord, the starting quarterback for Ohio State, has become a central figure for the Buckeyes, a program known for producing top-tier quarterbacks who often go on to have successful careers in the NFL. McCord, a former five-star recruit from Philadelphia, was highly sought after in high school for his combination of size, arm strength, and poise. His journey to Ohio State was marked by anticipation, as he was considered one of the top quarterbacks in his class.

While McCord’s early career at Ohio State was overshadowed by the presence of C.J. Stroud, a future NFL draft pick, McCord patiently waited for his opportunity. That moment came in the 2023 season, when McCord took over as the starting quarterback for the Buckeyes. Expectations were high, not only because Ohio State was transitioning from one of the top quarterbacks in the nation, but also because of the rich history of quarterbacks who had come through the program before him.

McCord’s connection to the Manning family comes through his personal relationship with Peyton Manning, who has served as a mentor and advisor to McCord. Through the Manning Passing Academy, McCord first met Peyton when he was in high school, attending the academy’s prestigious summer camp. The experience, which gathers some of the top high school quarterbacks across the country, had a lasting impact on McCord.

“Meeting Peyton was an eye-opening experience for me,” McCord said in an interview. “He’s been in the game at the highest level, and he has so much knowledge to share. Just being able to talk football with him and get his insights on everything from footwork to reading defenses—it’s been huge for me as I’ve transitioned to college football.”

For McCord, the advice and mentorship from Peyton Manning have been invaluable. The Ohio State quarterback has often credited Manning’s influence for helping him refine his skills and improve his decision-making. Peyton’s emphasis on preparation, understanding the mental side of the game, and studying film helped McCord develop a well-rounded approach to his position.

“He taught me that being a quarterback isn’t just about throwing the ball,” McCord continued. “It’s about knowing everything about the offense, understanding what the defense is trying to do, and being a leader. The way Peyton was able to break down film and anticipate defenses was something I really tried to incorporate into my own game.”

As McCord has blossomed into a starting quarterback for one of the premier programs in the country, Peyton Manning’s impact remains a constant presence in his development.

Sam Hartman: Notre Dame’s QB and Another Manning Connection

While McCord has a strong connection to the Manning family through Peyton, Notre Dame’s Sam Hartman also shares ties to the Mannings, albeit through a different channel. Hartman, who transferred to Notre Dame from Wake Forest, has quickly made a name for himself as one of the top quarterbacks in college football. A veteran of the college game, Hartman brought a wealth of experience and leadership to Notre Dame, and he was widely seen as a key piece in the Fighting Irish’s pursuit of a College Football Playoff spot.

Hartman’s connection to the Manning family comes through his ties to Eli Manning and the Manning Passing Academy. Like McCord, Hartman attended the Manning Passing Academy as a high school quarterback, where he worked closely with Eli and received guidance on his development. Hartman’s experience at the camp left a lasting impression on him, particularly in regard to how Eli approached leadership and decision-making on the field.

“Eli is one of the best at reading defenses and knowing where to go with the ball,” Hartman said. “What I took away from spending time with him was the importance of leadership and staying calm under pressure. He always had this ability to make big plays when it mattered most, and that’s something I really admired.”

Hartman’s connection to Eli Manning was solidified further during his time at Wake Forest, where he sought advice from Eli on how to handle the pressures of being a starting quarterback. Eli’s guidance wasn’t just technical but also psychological, emphasizing the mental toughness required to thrive in high-stakes situations.

“The best quarterbacks are the ones who can block out the noise and stay focused,” Hartman recalled. “Eli taught me that it’s not just about the X’s and O’s—it’s about being a strong presence on the field and having the confidence to lead your team, no matter what happens.”

Hartman’s arrival at Notre Dame brought immediate expectations, and while the spotlight was intense, he remained unfazed, much like Eli had throughout his career. That calmness under pressure is a direct result of the mentoring Hartman received from Eli, who is known for his stoic approach to the game.

The Stage Is Set: A Family Affair

As Ohio State and Notre Dame prepare for their high-profile showdown, the Manning family’s influence on both starting quarterbacks cannot be overstated. McCord and Hartman, two of the top quarterbacks in college football, will not only be representing their respective programs but also the legacy of one of the most famous quarterback families in football history.

For fans watching the game, it’s not just about the battle between two historic programs. It’s also about witnessing how the Manning family’s impact has extended beyond the NFL and into the heart of college football. With both McCord and Hartman taking the field as starting quarterbacks, the Manning legacy will continue to shine brightly, connecting two of the sport’s most important programs in a way that only a family like the Mannings could facilitate.

In a sport where family traditions are often passed down through generations, the Manning family’s involvement with these two quarterbacks serves as a reminder of the importance of mentorship, leadership, and the unspoken bond that connects all who play the game at the highest level. Whether it’s Peyton’s guidance to McCord or Eli’s advice to Hartman, the Manning influence is an integral part of what makes both quarterbacks special as they lead their teams into one of the most thrilling matchups of the season.