Super Bowl 50: Five keys for the Denver Broncos
By Dani Bostick
2. Terrorize Cam Newton
Cam Newton has far too much fun on the football field. He rarely seems worried. His love for the game radiates throughout all four quarters.
The Broncos needs to wipe that smile off of Newton’s face; make him worry; and, apply so much pressure that Newton things, “Man, this really sucks” or “Ouch, that hurt.” As long as Newton is relaxed, carefree and optimistic, he is unstoppable. In sum, the Broncos defense needs to do to Newton what they did to New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady in the AFC championship game.
Disrupting Newton’s mood is also the job of the Broncos offense. When Manning and company are on the field, they need to play lights out, Newton, on the sideline clutching his towel around his neck and chewing gum in disbelief. “Whoa. Manning still has it.”
In addition to rattling Newton, the defense needs to keep him in the pocket. Newton had an astounding 10 rushing touchdowns during the regular season along with 35 passing touchdowns and only 10 interceptions.
Furthermore, the Broncos defense will need to be careful with the blitz. According to Pro Football Focus, Cam Newton has a higher passer rating against the blitz than when he isn’t blitzed. His offensive line allowed the fourth fewest sacks, hits and hurries this season, so the Broncos defense will have their work cut out for them when it comes to the pass rush.
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