News - Malik Nabers Turns Fantasy Football Mistake into Hilarious Pancake Ad

In a brilliant marketing twist, IHOP closed 2025 with one of the year's standout sports advertisements, featuring New York Giants wide receiver Malik Nabers. The concept builds on the notorious fantasy football punishment of consuming 24 hours' worth of pancakes, cleverly tying it to Nabers' ill-fated season. Despite high expectations, Nabers was sidelined by an ACL injury just four games into what was expected to be a breakout year, disappointing fantasy team owners—like the outspoken child featured in the ad. The commercial captures a lighthearted moment where Nabers, instead of sulking, engages with his critics by humorously endorsing IHOP's pancakes while enduring good-natured jabs from an IHOP server and a persistent kid. The server cheekily comments on his fantasy performance, setting the stage for the child's sharp yet adorable critique: 'Are you Malik Nabers?! I wasted my first-round pick on you! Ugh!' This playful roasting highlights the sometimes harsh realities athletes face in the world of fantasy sports. Nabers embraces the spirit of the ad by showcasing resilience and humor amidst personal and professional setbacks. This commercial not only entertains but also serves as a poignant commentary on the pressures and unforeseen challenges of professional sports. It’s a masterclass in turning adversity into comedic brilliance, solidifying its place as a unique highlight of sports advertising. The ad offers a fresh perspective on how athletes can influence their narratives, transcending beyond game performances to connect with fans in unexpected and engaging ways, turning a missed season into a marketing win.