Peyton Manning, the former Indianapolis Colts quarterback, returned to Omaha, Nebraska for the third time to cheer on his alma mater Tennessee in the College World Series. He expressed that Omaha is like a second home to him and that people are always nice to him when he visits. Manning enjoyed watching his son play in a youth baseball tournament around this time before getting to watch his alma mater later in the day.
Manning praised Vols coach Tony Vitello for his impressive work with the program, stating that players want to play for him and give their all. Although Manning had attended UT’s games in the past and witnessed losses, this time there was a different outcome. The Vols won 12-11 in a thrilling game that saw them score four runs in the bottom of the ninth inning, including a walk-off hit by Dylan Dreiling.
In a turn of events, Manning’s call of “Omaha!” has gone from a play-call to the name of a production company he owns. He has since partnered with ESPN and Omaha Productions on projects like “Monday Night Football with Peyton and Eli,” where the Manning brothers break down games live. Their partnership has recently been extended through 2034, solidifying the relationship between Manning, ESPN, and Omaha Productions.