Eli Manning Cooks Up Friendly Burger Battle with Chef Bobby Flay

The former NFL star and his co-host Shaun O'Hara learn kitchen tips from the renowned chef on The Eli Manning Show.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 12:45am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An extreme close-up photograph of sizzling burger patties on a hot grill, with dramatic high-contrast studio lighting creating a glitzy, high-fashion aesthetic.A friendly cooking competition between an NFL legend and a renowned chef offers a glimpse into the glamour and excitement of sports media.NYC Today

Eli Manning and his co-host Shaun O'Hara went head-to-head in a friendly burger-cooking competition against renowned chef Bobby Flay on The Eli Manning Show. While the former NFL players struggled to fully cook their burgers, Flay stepped in to share his expertise on making the perfect burger, including his signature Bacon Crunch Burger.

Why it matters

The segment highlights Manning's successful interview series that brings fans behind-the-scenes of big NFL moments, as well as his continued media presence after retiring from the NFL, including co-hosting the popular ManningCast on ESPN2 with his brother Peyton.

The details

In the video, Manning and O'Hara begin making their burgers, which are then left to get judged by Flay. Manning created a cheeseburger with beef, Swiss cheese, mustard, and tomatoes, while O'Hara added a twist with avocado and jalapenos. However, both former players' burgers came out raw, leading Flay to step in and show them how to make his signature Bacon Crunch Burger, which includes a special 'crunch' factor made by adding potato chips.

  • The segment was filmed for The Eli Manning Show, which Manning created in 2021.

The players

Eli Manning

A two-time Super Bowl champion and former NFL quarterback who played for the New York Giants from 2004 to 2019. He is the host of The Eli Manning Show and co-hosts the ManningCast on ESPN2 with his brother Peyton.

Shaun O'Hara

A former NFL center who played for the New York Giants from 2004 to 2010 and co-hosts The Eli Manning Show with Manning.

Bobby Flay

A world-renowned chef, restaurateur, and television personality known for his expertise in American and Southwestern cuisine.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

The segment showcases Manning's successful transition into media and entertainment after his NFL career, as he continues to engage with fans and share behind-the-scenes looks at the lives of professional athletes.