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BY TOM MARTIN

Leading up to Super Bowl 46, it’s all about Eli. The younger Manning led his underdog New York Giants back to the promised land -- leaving experts to wonder: Has he eclipsed big brother Peyton?

CBS’ Clark Judge says the two stand as close as ever:

“Like it or not, Eli Manning has narrowed the gap between him and his brother. He's not Peyton ... not yet, he's not. But I tell you what: I might trust Eli in a big game as much ... if not more ... than his big brother …”

And ESPN’s Merrill Hodge points out -- with a second Super Bowl ring, Eli would shine.

John: Here comes Eli with a chance to win his second to Peyton's one. You have to rank the all-time quarterbacks. I don't care where you put them. Who is ahead?
Merrill: Assume Eli wins this one. He is ahead.

Just like that? Eli vaults ahead of his big brother? SB Nation’s Bomani Jones writes, not so fast -- Eli still falls short:

“Eli may have better timing, but there isn't a soul who would have traded him for his older brother before this season. Not even a second Super Bowl MVP would vault No. 10 over a sure-fire Hall of Famer.”

Manning’s fate likely rests in his Super Bowl rematch with the New England Patriots, who his Giants beat in 2008. If you recall, Manning likened himself to Pats QB Tom Brady in the off season -- the New York Daily News’ Gary Myers says it’s time to back it up:

“Eli Manning said over the summer that he considered himself an elite quarterback and that he was in Brady’s class. It was out of character for Manning to be bragging on himself, but if he beats Brady again in the Super Bowl, then there’s nothing to discuss anymore.”

Manning’s Giants have two weeks until the big game. This year it’ll take place in Indianapolis -- the home of Peyton’s Colts.