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Super Bowl 50 preview: Broncos vs. Panthers

By Matt Verderame

Feb 5, 2016; San Francisco, CA, USA; General view of Super Bowl 50 logo helmet and NFL Wilson Duke football at the Golden Gate bridge. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 5, 2016; San Francisco, CA, USA; General view of Super Bowl 50 logo helmet and NFL Wilson Duke football at the Golden Gate bridge. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /
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February 3, 2016; San Jose, CA, USA; Carolina Panthers outside linebacker Thomas Davis (58) addresses the media during a press conference prior to Super Bowl 50 at San Jose Convention Center. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
February 3, 2016; San Jose, CA, USA; Carolina Panthers outside linebacker Thomas Davis (58) addresses the media during a press conference prior to Super Bowl 50 at San Jose Convention Center. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports /

Preview and Predictions

Denver has the best defense in the NFL, and it is going to need exceptional play from that unit to have a chance. The pass-rushiung duo of Von Miller and DeMarcus Ware will be keeping Cam Newton on his toes throughout, but the Broncos need to get an interior rush to make a difference. Without it, Newton will step inside the rush on the perimeter and run to daylight.

Carolina has been able to beat teams in a variety of ways. The Panthers have shown the ability to run the ball at will, win bu turnover margin or simply punish teams with a dominant front seven. The matchup to watch will be Denver’s offensive line against Carolina’s defensive front. Kawaan Short and Star Lotulelei are dominant tackles with Jared Allen coming off the edge. Can Denver deal with the rush up the gut? If not, Peyton Manning will spend ample time on his backside.

It is hard to see Denver moving the ball consistently against Carolina. Manning needs to get the ball out quickly, hitting Emmanuel Sanders and Demaryius Thomas. Josh Norman will take one out of the game, but can the other work open against safeties being rolled over the top and linebackers rotated underneath?

Ultimately, it is the Panthers who should walk away with the Vince Lombardi Trophy. Carolina has a superior offense and a terrific defense. The Panthers also have the best player in the game with Newton at the helm, and the defensive stars who could, and should, make the difference in a tight game. If the Broncos are to win, they will need to rush for more than 150 yards and win the turnover battle.

Pick: Carolina 24, Denver 13

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