Former NFLer Peyton Manning is joined by Texans DE J.J. Watt in a new Papa John's commercial in which the recently retired QB hosts his own gameday party. The spot was scheduled to debut last night on ESPN, NFL Network, Spike, FX and Comedy Central. In addition to his cameo in the new creative, Watt will be featured on his first national, NFL-themed pizza box. Grey is Papa John's creative agency of record (THE DAILY).
HOLDING ONTO TRADITION: In Boston, Fluto Shinzawa wrote observers can "wax about the sanctity of the NHL jersey," but the league and the players would be "shortsighted not to consider adding advertising in subtle and tasteful ways to increase the bottom line." If growing the league means "adding a corporate logo on the shoulders, chest, trims, or anywhere else on the jersey, so be it." Shinzawa: "Nobody's going to reach for the remote because of the offending nature of a uniform. The league is better off thinking of ways to improve the product than fretting about altering its wardrobe" (BOSTON GLOBE, 8/21).
DRIVING SCHOOL: In Charlotte, Rick Bonnell noted NASCAR Sprint Cup Series driver Chase Elliott and Charlotte Motor Speedway are "partnering on a promotion to draw college students to the Bank of America 500." Under the label "Chase University" the promotion will "offer discounted tickets to the Oct. 8 race to students with valid college IDs." These passes can be "purchased for $24, symbolic of Elliott's car number" (CHARLOTTE OBSERVER, 8/20).
