(Image source: New York Post)

BY JUSTIN PROCHASKA

ANCHOR BLAKE HANSON

You're watching multisource global video news analysis from Newsy 

Tim Tebow is not the only quarterback making headlines over religion these days. Earlier this week, Tom Brady’s wife, supermodel Gisele Bundchen, sent an e-mail to friends and family asking them to “pray for Tom” in Sunday’s Super Bowl.
 

The New York Post leaked the e-mail -- calling it “disgustingly sappy.”

"So I kindly ask all of you to join me on this positive chain and pray for him, so he can feel confident, healthy and strong. Envision him happy and fulfilled experiencing with his team a victory this sunday."

The Today Show met with football wives in Indianapolis about praying for spouses before the game.

 

“Who prays -- show of hands, who will pray before a game?
“For these wives, watching their husbands' tough hits is hard enough.”
“You try not to live in fear, but you have that concern.”

ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith says the email is “embarrassing” and shows Bundchen’s lack of confidence in Brady.

“It’s like you’re predicting that misery is forthcoming. I mean, ‘let’s pray’ for my husband. I mean he’s one of the greatest quarterbacks in the game.”

And a contributor for Fox News says the email misinterprets the purpose of prayer.

“Based on Christian scripture and practical experience, the purpose of prayer is for God to win. Not for you to win. Or your favorite team.”

But Madonna, who will be performing at halftime of the Super Bowl, defended Gisele.

“I think that's great. She is a good wife.”

And a contributor for Larry Brown Sports doesn’t think prayer is the issue, but rather the release of a private e-mail.

“As a supermodel and millionaire, she should know nothing is private in this day and age.”

Jay Leno topped off the conversation by lampooning both Brady and Bundchen

“You think God is going, I made this guy 6'4". He is handsome, rich. Fix him up with Gisele. He wins three Super Bowls. How many prayers do I have to answer for this guy?”

We’ll find out if Gisele’s prayers are answered Sunday night.