The Politics of Peyton Manning
I originally posted this on our sister site, IndyPolitics.org.
When it comes to the Indianapolis Colts I am fundamentally indifferent. I grew up in Chicago, went to law school in St. Louis, and try to make it out to Seattle every other year for a few weeks. That means Bears, Sox, Blackhawks, Blues, Rams, Cardinals, Seahawks and Mariners tend to show up more on my radar screen.
With that said, I can appreciate fan loyalty to any team (even if they are 0-2) and my hope is always that the team reciprocates that appreciation. However, with Indianapolis Colts quarterback Peyton Manning sidelined, one has to wonder what happens if he never plays again. And what does that mean for the Colts, and more importantly, what does that mean for the relationship between the team and the City of Indianapolis.
If Manning goes, what does that mean for ticket sales? We’ve already seen the impact start to show in some areas. But what about the long-term? Two games does not an end of the world make, but when the Colts deal struck their deal with the City of Indianapolis, there were a lot of assumptions made on revenue, including a $41 million in annual revenue guarantee. If some of that cash doesn’t materialize will it drive the City and Capitol Improvement Board into a bigger hole or will the Colts actually have to bite the bullet? And does that mean a bailout is down the road? And what about the all but impending NBA lockout which will also have an impact on City/CIB coffers. That could cost the city $55 million in sales tax revenue.
You might recall the Colts’ response to helping the City back in 2009 when there was a debate over whether they would help the City and CIB cover their estimate shortfall. It was not very flattering. I even recall State Senator Luke Kenley telling the colts that they won’t have Manning forever and one day they may come back to the city looking for help and he said he would remember that day. If Manning is out for good, that day could already be here.
Some Previous Links From Indiana Barrister on the Indianapolis Colts
http://www.indianabarrister.com/archives/2009/04/pony_up_or_shut_up.html
http://www.indianabarrister.com/archives/2009/04/colts_fumble_getting_their_facts_straight.html
http://www.indianabarrister.com/archives/2009/04/irsay_colts_aint_givin_up_jack.html
http://www.indianabarrister.com/archives/2009/04/100_million_contribution_my_a.html
http://www.indianabarrister.com/archives/2009/04/does_bill_polian_get_it.html
