**** Official Super Bowl 50 **** Broncos v. Panthers (1 Viewer)

[pizzatyme]

I find it interesting that some think Denver's Defense cannot adjust their gameplan to what Carolina does. If I'm Denver, I play man-2-man on the WRs, a safety over the top of Olsen, focus on outside containment and less on pass rushing. Use Miller to spy Cam. Cam's not outrunning Miller.

To me, this game is all about gap control and contain. If Cam beats you over the top throwing the ball, then so be it. Eliminate their strength which is running the ball.

They have run on and beaten loaded boxes many times this season. They have also beaten several of the top ranked defenses this season. I don't think people truly understand the issues Cam causes with his ability to run ans his ability to direct a very complicated running game.

Then I guess we shall see. I think people are underestimating Denver's defense. Not taking anything away from Cam, but they haven't played a defense this good IMHO.

Edit to add that I realize Denver may not have seen a dynamic rushing attack as Carolina's too. Just hoping for a good game.

I think Denver's D is top notch, but why isn't Seattle or Arizona close? Seattle was the #1 scoring D, Denver #3 and Arizona #4. Carolina put up 107 combined points against them in 3 games. I am not trying to sell Denver's D short, but people seem to dismiss teams after they lose as if Seattle and Arizona all of a sudden suck on D because they lost. Even in ypc/ypa, Seattle was just behind Denver and Arizona a shade behind them. All four teams (including Carolina) were top 10 in ypc and ypa. Throw in the fact that Denver was 19th in scoring offense, compared to #1 for Carolina, #2 for Arizona and #4 for Seattle, maybe the four defenses were closer in real numbers (i.e. I know Carolina let up a lot of garbage points/yards because they had many blow out games). Again, not saying Denver wasn't the top overall defense, just that dismissing Seattle and Arizona as if Carolina hasn't played anyone close might be a mistake.

I think it will be a good game. I am not predicting a blow out like some, that is just silly. 3 weeks ago Carolina was struggling and going to lose to Seattle, now they will blow out Denver? Short term memories due to recent results. I hope we play well and win. I think where we have the advantage is our D versus their O. Again, I just hope we win. Getting out to a hot start like the last two games would be fantastic.

I would agree with this assessment. I think Honey Badger was sorely missed by AZ, and I wasn't sold on Seattle's D as a top one just from the eyeball test. I'd agree that Carolina should be favored but think Denver has a 40% chance.

 

[solorca]

I find it interesting that some think Denver's Defense cannot adjust their gameplan to what Carolina does. If I'm Denver, I play man-2-man on the WRs, a safety over the top of Olsen, focus on outside containment and less on pass rushing. Use Miller to spy Cam. Cam's not outrunning Miller.

To me, this game is all about gap control and contain. If Cam beats you over the top throwing the ball, then so be it. Eliminate their strength which is running the ball.

Denver’s defense isn’t the problem. I’m pretty sure they will be able to make things really difficult for the Panther offense.

That being said I think that Carolina’s defense can make things even tougher on the Broncos offense especially if Demaryius Thomas keeps playing like he has recently.

What happened to that guy?

Denver #1 total defense & #4 scoring defense vs. Carolina #11 total offense & #1 scoring offense

Carolina #6 total defense & #6 scoring defense vs. Denver #16 total offense & #19 scoring offense

I'm 100% on board with this. I said this in the AFCCG thread, Thomas can make a difference, a huge difference. If Thomas Davis can't get back to a place (or has to play in a cast that affects his tackling) I think the big body, strength, speed of Thomas can really be a factor in getting the Panthers D back on it's heals. But, as Yen pointed out...he's been playing sooo tentative. Is he really hurt in some way??

I would expect Josh Norman to shadow Demaryius Thomas, holding him in check. Sanders will likely be covered by McClain on the outside and Finnegan on the inside, with help. When he's running in the slot, Shaq Thompson will also be on him quite a bit (they used this scheme successfully against Fitzgerald).

The thing that is getting lost in the top defense vs. top offense discussion is that the Carolina defense is fantastic as well...so it's not the usual matchup of this type that you are used to seeing. For the most part, it's a played out storyline that isn't tremendously relevant to this game.

A lot of what is being said is absolutely true. Shut down Cam and double team Olsen, while containing the receivers with man coverage. That's what team after team has tried to do this season. This Carolina team is weird. You can't just decide to do something like that without having an insane plan. Is Denver capable of doing it? They certainly have a better chance than any other team this season...but it's a tall order and much easier on paper than in practice.

I just rewatched the Arizona game and there is a sequence in the 3rd quarter that shows the amazing maturation of Cam Newton as a player. With about three minutes left, the Arizona defense finally started to get some pressure on Cam. On 1st down, Cam takes a hit and manages to get rid of the ball just before a sack. You see him watching the replay on the screen following it. Two plays later, pressure comes from the exact same spot and Cam is ready for it. He steps up, makes a move to the side, and he runs for a 10 yard first down. Two plays after that, the pressure comes again and he rushes for a 12 yard TD. He essentially used the offensive lines weakness on those plays to create two huge plays.

I'm a Panthers fan so I'm obviously biased in my analysis and I haven't watched enough of the Broncos to analyze what they offer effectively. I do know that they are a very good team and likely the biggest challenge Carolina has faced this year, certainly the biggest challenge for the offense. I'd like to think that the Panthers great offense and a very good defense can outscore the Denver's decent offense and great defense. Regardless it will be a fun game that I think will come down to performance in the late fourth quarter. I wouldn't be shocked with a 14-10 final score.

 

[solorca]

I find it interesting that some think Denver's Defense cannot adjust their gameplan to what Carolina does. If I'm Denver, I play man-2-man on the WRs, a safety over the top of Olsen, focus on outside containment and less on pass rushing. Use Miller to spy Cam. Cam's not outrunning Miller.

To me, this game is all about gap control and contain. If Cam beats you over the top throwing the ball, then so be it. Eliminate their strength which is running the ball.

Denver’s defense isn’t the problem. I’m pretty sure they will be able to make things really difficult for the Panther offense.

That being said I think that Carolina’s defense can make things even tougher on the Broncos offense especially if Demaryius Thomas keeps playing like he has recently.

What happened to that guy?

Denver #1 total defense & #4 scoring defense vs. Carolina #11 total offense & #1 scoring offense

Carolina #6 total defense & #6 scoring defense vs. Denver #16 total offense & #19 scoring offense

I'm 100% on board with this. I said this in the AFCCG thread, Thomas can make a difference, a huge difference. If Thomas Davis can't get back to a place (or has to play in a cast that affects his tackling) I think the big body, strength, speed of Thomas can really be a factor in getting the Panthers D back on it's heals. But, as Yen pointed out...he's been playing sooo tentative. Is he really hurt in some way??

I just asked a former NFL doctor about this issue on twitter because Davis' tackling was a concern of mine. Here is his response....

"Davis will be Able to wrap/tackle/grip. Minimal effect on LB"

I feel much better about his effectiveness with his return now. If the cast doesn't limit him due to the physical design (which is appears it won't), I have no doubt he'll play at his usual level.

 

[Jayrok]

I find it interesting that some think Denver's Defense cannot adjust their gameplan to what Carolina does. If I'm Denver, I play man-2-man on the WRs, a safety over the top of Olsen, focus on outside containment and less on pass rushing. Use Miller to spy Cam. Cam's not outrunning Miller.

To me, this game is all about gap control and contain. If Cam beats you over the top throwing the ball, then so be it. Eliminate their strength which is running the ball.

Denver’s defense isn’t the problem. I’m pretty sure they will be able to make things really difficult for the Panther offense.

That being said I think that Carolina’s defense can make things even tougher on the Broncos offense especially if Demaryius Thomas keeps playing like he has recently.

What happened to that guy?

Denver #1 total defense & #4 scoring defense vs. Carolina #11 total offense & #1 scoring offense

Carolina #6 total defense & #6 scoring defense vs. Denver #16 total offense & #19 scoring offense

I'm 100% on board with this. I said this in the AFCCG thread, Thomas can make a difference, a huge difference. If Thomas Davis can't get back to a place (or has to play in a cast that affects his tackling) I think the big body, strength, speed of Thomas can really be a factor in getting the Panthers D back on it's heals. But, as Yen pointed out...he's been playing sooo tentative. Is he really hurt in some way??

I just asked a former NFL doctor about this issue on twitter because Davis' tackling was a concern of mine. Here is his response....

"Davis will be Able to wrap/tackle/grip. Minimal effect on LB"

I feel much better about his effectiveness with his return now. If the cast doesn't limit him due to the physical design (which is appears it won't), I have no doubt he'll play at his usual level.

It doesn't appear that any cast he will be wearing will interfere with the range of motion with his arms/elbows. A dislocated elbow would be a different story altogether.

 

[solorca]

I find it interesting that some think Denver's Defense cannot adjust their gameplan to what Carolina does. If I'm Denver, I play man-2-man on the WRs, a safety over the top of Olsen, focus on outside containment and less on pass rushing. Use Miller to spy Cam. Cam's not outrunning Miller.

To me, this game is all about gap control and contain. If Cam beats you over the top throwing the ball, then so be it. Eliminate their strength which is running the ball.

Denver’s defense isn’t the problem. I’m pretty sure they will be able to make things really difficult for the Panther offense.

That being said I think that Carolina’s defense can make things even tougher on the Broncos offense especially if Demaryius Thomas keeps playing like he has recently.

What happened to that guy?

Denver #1 total defense & #4 scoring defense vs. Carolina #11 total offense & #1 scoring offense

Carolina #6 total defense & #6 scoring defense vs. Denver #16 total offense & #19 scoring offense

I'm 100% on board with this. I said this in the AFCCG thread, Thomas can make a difference, a huge difference. If Thomas Davis can't get back to a place (or has to play in a cast that affects his tackling) I think the big body, strength, speed of Thomas can really be a factor in getting the Panthers D back on it's heals. But, as Yen pointed out...he's been playing sooo tentative. Is he really hurt in some way??

I just asked a former NFL doctor about this issue on twitter because Davis' tackling was a concern of mine. Here is his response....

"Davis will be Able to wrap/tackle/grip. Minimal effect on LB"

I feel much better about his effectiveness with his return now. If the cast doesn't limit him due to the physical design (which is appears it won't), I have no doubt he'll play at his usual level.

It doesn't appear that any cast he will be wearing will interfere with the range of motion with his arms/elbows. A dislocated elbow would be a different story altogether.

I'm not seeing anything about a dislocated elbow. It's certainly not a concern here in NC.

 

[Leroy Hoard]

Carolina will call the coin toss.

Denver will wear white.

Carolina will wear black jerseys with silver pants.

...and this totally screws up the decor for my Super Bowl party. I've got tons of Orange & Light Blue from the 99cent store.

Go with a retro décor. Everything in black & white.

 

[The Commish]

Seattle is the hottest team in the NFL. No way Panthers can win. Legion of Boom. Be afraid Beastmode is back.

Oh no really Arizona is the best team in the NFL going to win the Super Bowl after they beat the Panthers. Panthers won't be able to run or stop Arizonas offense with the unstoppable Fitz.

Excuse me, but you don't get to play the "no respect" card when you are favored by 4.5.

What does the media have to do with a Vegas line?

 

[The Commish]

I find it interesting that some think Denver's Defense cannot adjust their gameplan to what Carolina does. If I'm Denver, I play man-2-man on the WRs, a safety over the top of Olsen, focus on outside containment and less on pass rushing. Use Miller to spy Cam. Cam's not outrunning Miller.

To me, this game is all about gap control and contain. If Cam beats you over the top throwing the ball, then so be it. Eliminate their strength which is running the ball.

This translates to a huge day for Stewart....count me in

 

[Insein]

Denver 26

Carolina 24

 

[pizzatyme]

I find it interesting that some think Denver's Defense cannot adjust their gameplan to what Carolina does. If I'm Denver, I play man-2-man on the WRs, a safety over the top of Olsen, focus on outside containment and less on pass rushing. Use Miller to spy Cam. Cam's not outrunning Miller.

To me, this game is all about gap control and contain. If Cam beats you over the top throwing the ball, then so be it. Eliminate their strength which is running the ball.

This translates to a huge day for Stewart....count me in

If you have an assigned gap or 3, and you control those gaps, then it is reasonable to expect to keep Stewart and Cam in check on the ground. Maybe gap control means something different to you.

 

[Yenrub]

Denver 26

Carolina 24

So you expect Denver's offense to score more points against Carolina's defense than they did against Pittsburgh's (23 pts) and NE's (20 pts) defenses or do you think the Denver defense and or special teams to score points as well?

 

[moleculo]

Seattle is the hottest team in the NFL. No way Panthers can win. Legion of Boom. Be afraid Beastmode is back.

Oh no really Arizona is the best team in the NFL going to win the Super Bowl after they beat the Panthers. Panthers won't be able to run or stop Arizonas offense with the unstoppable Fitz.

Excuse me, but you don't get to play the "no respect" card when you are favored by 4.5.

What does the media have to do with a Vegas line?

By on large, the media are, and will continue to, favor the Panthers. Like it or not, you guys are the favorites.

 

[Sebowski]

The game will come down to how many drops Ginn has.

 

[Insein]

Denver 26

Carolina 24

So you expect Denver's offense to score more points against Carolina's defense than they did against Pittsburgh's (23 pts) and NE's (20 pts) defenses or do you think the Denver defense and or special teams to score points as well?

Sure why not

 

[devouredbychaos]

I just hope all the Denver homers stick around when they lose, unlike the Seahawks homers last season who disappeared after they lost

I was here before you got here, and I'll be here long after you leave. I'm not going anywhere.

What will be the excuse this time when they lose in the Super Bowl? You can't use the injury excuse this time This will be the Broncos 7th Super Bowl appearance, and yet they've only won 2?? Yikes.

At least they won those two Super Bowls honestly. The Panthers are probably glad that their second trip to the Super Bowl will be against a team that hasn't illegally taped their play calls.

Illegally?

You mean when they were caught sitting in the wrong section of the stadium? The recording part was legal and allowed, and every single other team was doing it. So did I miss when the NFL added asterisks to the Patriots Lombardi trophy's?? Some internet troll calling their wins dishonest means absolutely nothing. It's yet another excuse in a very long line of excuses. At least the Patriots weren't caught circumventing the salary cap to win their only 2 Super Bowls like the Broncos did. Did you not know they were fined and docked a top draft pick for it?? It happened twice in 3 years. Talk about illegal. Let's not forget about Miller and Wolfe being suspended for PEDs either. As I've said before the Broncos are a classless cheating organization.

 

[moleculo]

I just hope all the Denver homers stick around when they lose, unlike the Seahawks homers last season who disappeared after they lost

I was here before you got here, and I'll be here long after you leave. I'm not going anywhere.

What will be the excuse this time when they lose in the Super Bowl? You can't use the injury excuse this time This will be the Broncos 7th Super Bowl appearance, and yet they've only won 2?? Yikes.

At least they won those two Super Bowls honestly. The Panthers are probably glad that their second trip to the Super Bowl will be against a team that hasn't illegally taped their play calls.

Illegally? You mean when they were caught sitting in the wrong section of the stadium? The recording part was legal and allowed, and every single other team was doing it. So did I miss when the NFL added asterisks to the Patriots Lombardi trophy's?? Some internet troll calling their wins dishonest means absolutely nothing. It's yet another excuse in a very long line of excuses. At least the Patriots weren't caught circumventing the salary cap to win their only 2 Super Bowls like the Broncos did. Did you not know they were fined and docked a top draft pick for it?? It happened twice in 3 years. Talk about illegal. Let's not forget about Miller and Wolfe being suspended for PEDs either. As I've said before the Broncos are a classless cheating organization.

This is a discussion amongst men about their teams that are in the Superbowl. Take your childish remarks elsewhere and don't derail this thread.

 

[simey]

This is a discussion amongst men and women about their teams that are in the Superbowl. Take your childish remarks elsewhere and don't derail this thread.

 

[Dr. Octopus]

Some internet troll calling their wins dishonest means absolutely nothing.

seems like it.

 

[moleculo]

This is a discussion amongst men and women about their teams that are in the Superbowl. Take your childish remarks elsewhere and don't derail this thread.

 

[The Commish]

Seattle is the hottest team in the NFL. No way Panthers can win. Legion of Boom. Be afraid Beastmode is back.

Oh no really Arizona is the best team in the NFL going to win the Super Bowl after they beat the Panthers. Panthers won't be able to run or stop Arizonas offense with the unstoppable Fitz.

Excuse me, but you don't get to play the "no respect" card when you are favored by 4.5.

What does the media have to do with a Vegas line?

By on large, the media are, and will continue to, favor the Panthers. Like it or not, you guys are the favorites.

Perhaps they are beginning to finally acknowledge this Carolina team, who knows? Time will tell, but the narrative has been, for a very long time, not kind. That's what the narrative will be in the locker room. Should also be noted, I am not on the team and not a favorite of anyone (that I know of anyway)

 

[Worm]

Moleculo... I love you GB but it's not happening.

This Panther team is a locomotive. The loss against Atlanta was a fluke, a reality check game. When the stakes are high this team is on point.

The reason that the Broncos aren't winning this game? It's their offense vs. Panthers defense. They just don't have enough weapons, and the Panther defensive scheme is wrecking shop. The d-line will be all over Peyton, and he will make mistakes. There's no way I can see the Broncos sustaining drives against the Panthers, which is what you need to do to beat them. Broncos will struggle mightily to 17-ish points, and that's just not enough against this Panther team.

Sorry bud, you know it's true.

 

[Leroy Hoard]

From vegasinsider.com:

The real story in Las Vegas is that everyone is betting the Panthers as if they’ve seen the final score already. William Hill's 104 sports books across Nevada has seen 90 percent of its tickets Super Bowl tickets on the Panthers (-4) and 86 percent of actual cash wagered on them as well. It’s the same story all across town.

 

[Ditkaless Wonders]

The Panthers have the equivalent of a young Julius Peppers athleticism with Randal Cunningham's Q.B. skills leading their offense. That challenges and changes Defenses. The Broncos have The equivalent of Johnny Unitas in his San Diego year at quarterback. I'm going with the Panthers.

 

[PDX_Seahawk]

I have no horse in this race (no bronco pun intended) but I would not sleep on that Denver defense. No way in hell this turns out like the Seattle/Denver super bowl.

 

[SacramentoBob]

I honestly don't see any path to victory for the Broncos unless it's a mistake filled 13-10 win or something.

 

[cstu]

From vegasinsider.com:

The real story in Las Vegas is that everyone is betting the Panthers as if they’ve seen the final score already. William Hill's 104 sports books across Nevada has seen 90 percent of its tickets Super Bowl tickets on the Panthers (-4) and 86 percent of actual cash wagered on them as well. It’s the same story all across town.

Isn't the line supposed to move when all the cash is being bet on one side?

 

[bicycle_seat_sniffer]

From vegasinsider.com:

The real story in Las Vegas is that everyone is betting the Panthers as if theyve seen the final score already. William Hill's 104 sports books across Nevada has seen 90 percent of its tickets Super Bowl tickets on the Panthers (-4) and 86 percent of actual cash wagered on them as well. Its the same story all across town.

Fix factor. Denver covers for sure!!

 

[DeaLerZ]

I find it interesting that some think Denver's Defense cannot adjust their gameplan to what Carolina does. If I'm Denver, I play man-2-man on the WRs, a safety over the top of Olsen, focus on outside containment and less on pass rushing. Use Miller to spy Cam. Cam's not outrunning Miller.

To me, this game is all about gap control and contain. If Cam beats you over the top throwing the ball, then so be it. Eliminate their strength which is running the ball.

They have run on and beaten loaded boxes many times this season. They have also beaten several of the top ranked defenses this season. I don't think people truly understand the issues Cam causes with his ability to run ans his ability to direct a very complicated running game.

Then I guess we shall see. I think people are underestimating Denver's defense. Not taking anything away from Cam, but they haven't played a defense this good IMHO.

Edit to add that I realize Denver may not have seen a dynamic rushing attack as Carolina's too. Just hoping for a good game.

I think Denver's D is top notch, but why isn't Seattle or Arizona close? Seattle was the #1 scoring D, Denver #3 and Arizona #4. Carolina put up 107 combined points against them in 3 games. I am not trying to sell Denver's D short, but people seem to dismiss teams after they lose as if Seattle and Arizona all of a sudden suck on D because they lost. Even in ypc/ypa, Seattle was just behind Denver and Arizona a shade behind them. All four teams (including Carolina) were top 10 in ypc and ypa. Throw in the fact that Denver was 19th in scoring offense, compared to #1 for Carolina, #2 for Arizona and #4 for Seattle, maybe the four defenses were closer in real numbers (i.e. I know Carolina let up a lot of garbage points/yards because they had many blow out games). Again, not saying Denver wasn't the top overall defense, just that dismissing Seattle and Arizona as if Carolina hasn't played anyone close might be a mistake.

I think it will be a good game. I am not predicting a blow out like some, that is just silly. 3 weeks ago Carolina was struggling and going to lose to Seattle, now they will blow out Denver? Short term memories due to recent results. I hope we play well and win. I think where we have the advantage is our D versus their O. Again, I just hope we win. Getting out to a hot start like the last two games would be fantastic.

I would agree with this assessment. I think Honey Badger was sorely missed by AZ, and I wasn't sold on Seattle's D as a top one just from the eyeball test. I'd agree that Carolina should be favored but think Denver has a 40% chance.

Carolina wasn't struggling and going to lose to Seattle?? They were up 31-0. They obviously learned from their mistake of allowing Seattle to crawl back into the game by being too conservative as evidenced by blowing out Arizona. Totally agree with the rest of your assessment though, there is no way Denver's putrid offense can sustain drives against Carolina, especially because Manning is a older, slower version of Palmer and can't throw at all.

The only thing I could potentially see happening is Manning getting benched and Brock Osweiler putting life back into the Broncos offense and throwing Carolina off guard. Hard to think that the Broncos will do this to Manning if he sucks, but if its bad that may be there only chance at winning this one.

30-13 Carolina

 

[Dismattle]

From vegasinsider.com:

The real story in Las Vegas is that everyone is betting the Panthers as if they’ve seen the final score already. William Hill's 104 sports books across Nevada has seen 90 percent of its tickets Super Bowl tickets on the Panthers (-4) and 86 percent of actual cash wagered on them as well. It’s the same story all across town.

This is concerning to me, because it seems like the only real potential to watching a WWE type SB... Its kinda sick to think some "friends" might be talking too players about "Bro, you chase a bad reaction resulting in broken coverage a few times? I be rakin in some bills"

I say, we just take it as some form of inspiration to further enjoy the game.. (ie. maybe it wont be a 30-7 blowout..)

But,. this news is enough to make me believe any huge bets (bets for the hell of it) should be considered at least a coin flip.. I think weve already seen Carolina lift the foot off the throat/gas pedal too

I know I like saying Defense Wins Championships.. But, some say the best Defense is a good Offense (P@NTHERS gots both imho)

p.s. IF the news keeps playing up the Broncos as the #1 Defense? Keep in mind, how its the type of inspiration that fuels a Carolina Defense too really up their game.. Theres just alot of angles too consider

 

[moleculo]

Moleculo... I love you GB but it's not happening.

This Panther team is a locomotive. The loss against Atlanta was a fluke, a reality check game. When the stakes are high this team is on point.

The reason that the Broncos aren't winning this game? It's their offense vs. Panthers defense. They just don't have enough weapons, and the Panther defensive scheme is wrecking shop. The d-line will be all over Peyton, and he will make mistakes. There's no way I can see the Broncos sustaining drives against the Panthers, which is what you need to do to beat them. Broncos will struggle mightily to 17-ish points, and that's just not enough against this Panther team.

Sorry bud, you know it's true.

I do. I get all of that. To win this game, IMO the Broncos need to shown more offensively than they have shown all year. I think they are certainly capable of more, it feels like they still have not put it all together for a variety of reasons - injury to the QB, implementation of a new offense, complete overhaul of OL, injuries at both tackle positions, etc. There is reason to believe that they started getting their act together vs NE - the first half, Manning looked like the Manning of old. In the second half, Kubes was sitting on a lead, and played overly-conservatively, which didn't work that well b/c Broncos cant run the ball when the D expects them to.

I know its foolish to expect an offense to get their act together in week 19, after struggling the previous 18.

At the end of the day, I wasn't thinking Superbowl at the start of the season. This Bronco team has far exceeded my expectations. Beating the Patriots was pretty awesome, and I'll call it a great season regardless of what happens in 50.

Still, there are a few historic points that give me some hope - primarily, the success top defenses have had against great offenses historically. The 2103 Seahawks. The 2002 Buccaneers. The 1990 Giants.

That one is my favorite - the 1990 Bills had a great offense, good defense, got on a roll in the playoffs including winning the AFCCG 51-3. They went to their first superbowl, only to lose to a Giants team with a #1 defense, back-up QB, and a running game that came alive when needed most.

 

[cstu]

Carolina reminds me a lot of the 2012 49ers and most people thought they'd roll over the Ravens.

 

[cstu]

I know its foolish to expect an offense to get their act together in week 19, after struggling the previous 18.

It's not like Denver lacks offensive talent, they just need Peyton to catch lightning in a bottle for one game and his receivers to not drop passes.

 

[Worm]

Carolina reminds me a lot of the 2012 49ers and most people thought they'd roll over the Ravens.

The 2012 49ers did not have a league MVP at QB.

 

[cstu]

Carolina reminds me a lot of the 2012 49ers and most people thought they'd roll over the Ravens.

The 2012 49ers did not have a league MVP at QB.

Record for league MVP QB's in the Super Bowl since Warner in 1999:

0-5

Peyton - 2013

Peyton - 2009

Brady - 2007

Gannon - 2002

Warner - 2001

 

[DeaLerZ]

Carolina reminds me a lot of the 2012 49ers and most people thought they'd roll over the Ravens.

The 2012 49ers did not have a league MVP at QB.

Record for league MVP QB's in the Super Bowl since Warner in 1999:

0-5

Peyton - 2013

Peyton - 2009

Brady - 2007

Gannon - 2002

Warner - 2001

None of those MVP's had 630yds rushing and 10 TD's to go with MVP caliber passing stats.... and none of them were named Cam Newton....Irrelevant stat.. Thanks for the insight though

 

[thatguy]

Carolina reminds me a lot of the 2012 49ers and most people thought they'd roll over the Ravens.

The 2012 49ers did not have a league MVP at QB.

Record for league MVP QB's in the Super Bowl since Warner in 1999:

0-5

Peyton - 2013

Peyton - 2009

Brady - 2007

Gannon - 2002

Warner - 2001

None of those MVP's had 630yds rushing and 10 TD's to go with MVP caliber passing stats.... and none of them were named Cam Newton....Irrelevant stat.. Thanks for the insight though

It is an irrelevant stat in that it likely has absolutely no predictive value whatsoever. But to claim that Cam's season was somehow more special then every one of those seasons is just silly. I would argue that several of those seasons are far more impressive than the season cam just put together. The fact that Cam did it as a dual threat makes his accomplishments somewhat unique when compared to those other seasons but that doesn't make it better.

 

[Worm]

Carolina reminds me a lot of the 2012 49ers and most people thought they'd roll over the Ravens.

The 2012 49ers did not have a league MVP at QB.

Record for league MVP QB's in the Super Bowl since Warner in 1999:

0-5

Peyton - 2013

Peyton - 2009

Brady - 2007

Gannon - 2002

Warner - 2001

What does that have to do with the 2012 49ers?

 

[Jayrok]

Carolina reminds me a lot of the 2012 49ers and most people thought they'd roll over the Ravens.

The 2012 49ers did not have a league MVP at QB.

Record for league MVP QB's in the Super Bowl since Warner in 1999:

0-5

Peyton - 2013

Peyton - 2009

Brady - 2007

Gannon - 2002

Warner - 2001

Records including Warner (won in 2000 as NFL mvp in 1999 season) and ten years before:

4-1 (MVP Brett Favre won in 1997 and lost in 1998)

1990 - Joe Montana (mvp in '89 season)
1995 - Steve young (mvp in '94)
1997 - Brett Favre (mvp in '96)
2000 - Kurt Warner (mvp in '99 season)

0-5 since Warner? Cam is due!!!

Go Panthers! keep pounding...

 

[Ditkaless Wonders]

I am going to disagree that we have never seen anything like Newton before. Steve young and Randal Cunningham both had multiple years of impactful running and extraordinary throwing. If you adjust their numbers to account for the inflation of offensive stats due to rule changes one could argue even better seasons. The point is newton is not unprecedented, just extremely rare.

If there are any lessons to learn from Young and Cunningham it is that the rare skill combination alone does not guarantee a Super Bowl victory.

BTW I see a double digit victory for Carolina unless Manning goes down early. I think Osweiller is a much better matchup in this game.

 

[stbugs]

Moleculo... I love you GB but it's not happening.

This Panther team is a locomotive. The loss against Atlanta was a fluke, a reality check game. When the stakes are high this team is on point.

The reason that the Broncos aren't winning this game? It's their offense vs. Panthers defense. They just don't have enough weapons, and the Panther defensive scheme is wrecking shop. The d-line will be all over Peyton, and he will make mistakes. There's no way I can see the Broncos sustaining drives against the Panthers, which is what you need to do to beat them. Broncos will struggle mightily to 17-ish points, and that's just not enough against this Panther team.

Sorry bud, you know it's true.

I do. I get all of that. To win this game, IMO the Broncos need to shown more offensively than they have shown all year. I think they are certainly capable of more, it feels like they still have not put it all together for a variety of reasons - injury to the QB, implementation of a new offense, complete overhaul of OL, injuries at both tackle positions, etc.There is reason to believe that they started getting their act together vs NE - the first half, Manning looked like the Manning of old. In the second half, Kubes was sitting on a lead, and played overly-conservatively, which didn't work that well b/c Broncos cant run the ball when the D expects them to.

I know its foolish to expect an offense to get their act together in week 19, after struggling the previous 18.

At the end of the day, I wasn't thinking Superbowl at the start of the season. This Bronco team has far exceeded my expectations. Beating the Patriots was pretty awesome, and I'll call it a great season regardless of what happens in 50.

Still, there are a few historic points that give me some hope - primarily, the success top defenses have had against great offenses historically. The 2103 Seahawks. The 2002 Buccaneers. The 1990 Giants.

That one is my favorite - the 1990 Bills had a great offense, good defense, got on a roll in the playoffs including winning the AFCCG 51-3. They went to their first superbowl, only to lose to a Giants team with a #1 defense, back-up QB, and a running game that came alive when needed most.

Honestly, the Broncos were way more favored (9-1, 6th) to go to this Super Bowl than Carolina (60-1, 23rd, after the freaking Rams). This season has been ridiculously above expectations for all Panther fans and is a success regardless of the result. We all want to win the Super Bowl, who wouldn't, but 17-1 and in the Super Bowl, that is ridiculous. Cam being the clear MVP, after a car wreck and his worst season last year? Losing our best offensive weapon in pre-season?* Just a crazy wonderful season to be a fan and watch every game. One more to go and lord Newton willing, a miracle season.

*I know, I know, Olsen is great, but a rookie KB had the same yardage and more TDs than Olsen last year and was looking fantastic in pre-season. KB was looking like he was going to explode this year.

 

[DeaLerZ]

Carolina reminds me a lot of the 2012 49ers and most people thought they'd roll over the Ravens.

The 2012 49ers did not have a league MVP at QB.

Record for league MVP QB's in the Super Bowl since Warner in 1999:

0-5

Peyton - 2013

Peyton - 2009

Brady - 2007

Gannon - 2002

Warner - 2001

None of those MVP's had 630yds rushing and 10 TD's to go with MVP caliber passing stats.... and none of them were named Cam Newton....Irrelevant stat.. Thanks for the insight though

It is an irrelevant stat in that it likely has absolutely no predictive value whatsoever. But to claim that Cam's season was somehow more special then every one of those seasons is just silly. I would argue that several of those seasons are far more impressive than the season cam just put together. The fact that Cam did it as a dual threat makes his accomplishments somewhat unique when compared to those other seasons but that doesn't make it better.

Wasn't saying that their seasons were any better or worse... just saying that who gives a #### about those seasons??

Cam is a different type of player, he is a 260lb QB who is a very athletic runner, and a clear goal line weapon. Cunningham, Steve Young, and Vick weren't goal line weapons like that by any means. The point is Cam's play this year is very difficult to defend seeing how the Panthers offense is the #1 scoring offense, the running game, and how he has become a true dual threat. Not to mention they just destroyed the Seahawks and Cardinals who had top notch defenses...

think whatever you want..

 

[thatguy]

Carolina reminds me a lot of the 2012 49ers and most people thought they'd roll over the Ravens.

The 2012 49ers did not have a league MVP at QB.

Record for league MVP QB's in the Super Bowl since Warner in 1999:

0-5

Peyton - 2013

Peyton - 2009

Brady - 2007

Gannon - 2002

Warner - 2001

None of those MVP's had 630yds rushing and 10 TD's to go with MVP caliber passing stats.... and none of them were named Cam Newton....Irrelevant stat.. Thanks for the insight though

It is an irrelevant stat in that it likely has absolutely no predictive value whatsoever. But to claim that Cam's season was somehow more special then every one of those seasons is just silly. I would argue that several of those seasons are far more impressive than the season cam just put together. The fact that Cam did it as a dual threat makes his accomplishments somewhat unique when compared to those other seasons but that doesn't make it better.

Wasn't saying that their seasons were any better or worse... just saying that who gives a #### about those seasons??

Cam is a different type of player, he is a 260lb QB who is a very athletic runner, and a clear goal line weapon. Cunningham, Steve Young, and Vick weren't goal line weapons like that by any means. The point is Cam's play this year is very difficult to defend seeing how the Panthers offense is the #1 scoring offense, the running game, and how he has become a true dual threat. Not to mention they just destroyed the Seahawks and Cardinals who had top notch defenses...

think whatever you want..

I wasn't disagreeing with you except it seems to me that you were suggesting Cam's MVP season was more special than any of the others. That was the only part I had an issue with but perhaps I misunderstood what you were implying. I agree 100% that the stat mentioned is meaningless

 

[cstu]

Cam is a different type of player, he is a 260lb QB who is a very athletic runner, and a clear goal line weapon. Cunningham, Steve Young, and Vick weren't goal line weapons like that by any means. The point is Cam's play this year is very difficult to defend seeing how the Panthers offense is the #1 scoring offense, the running game, and how he has become a true dual threat. Not to mention they just destroyed the Seahawks and Cardinals who had top notch defenses...

think whatever you want..

The Panthers squeaked out two wins against the Seahawks. In the first one at Seattle, Cam completed less than 56% of his passes and threw 2 INT's. In the 2nd one at home he only threw the ball 22 times. In both of those games Stewart had 2 rushing TD's.

Yes, Cam is a tremendous dual threat but he threw up some clunkers this year where he was fortunate to get the win.

 

[cstu]

I am going to disagree that we have never seen anything like Newton before. Steve young and Randal Cunningham both had multiple years of impactful running and extraordinary throwing. If you adjust their numbers to account for the inflation of offensive stats due to rule changes one could argue even better seasons. The point is newton is not unprecedented, just extremely rare.

If there are any lessons to learn from Young and Cunningham it is that the rare skill combination alone does not guarantee a Super Bowl victory.

BTW I see a double digit victory for Carolina unless Manning goes down early. I think Osweiller is a much better matchup in this game.

And Daunte Culpepper.

 

[cstu]

Honestly, the Broncos were way more favored (9-1, 6th) to go to this Super Bowl than Carolina (60-1, 23rd, after the freaking Rams). This season has been ridiculously above expectations for all Panther fans and is a success regardless of the result. We all want to win the Super Bowl, who wouldn't, but 17-1 and in the Super Bowl, that is ridiculous. Cam being the clear MVP, after a car wreck and his worst season last year? Losing our best offensive weapon in pre-season?* Just a crazy wonderful season to be a fan and watch every game. One more to go and lord Newton willing, a miracle season.

*I know, I know, Olsen is great, but a rookie KB had the same yardage and more TDs than Olsen last year and was looking fantastic in pre-season. KB was looking like he was going to explode this year.

Even if the Broncos somehow pull out a miracle, Panthers fans have a lot of winning to look forward to.

 

[stbugs]

Honestly, the Broncos were way more favored (9-1, 6th) to go to this Super Bowl than Carolina (60-1, 23rd, after the freaking Rams). This season has been ridiculously above expectations for all Panther fans and is a success regardless of the result. We all want to win the Super Bowl, who wouldn't, but 17-1 and in the Super Bowl, that is ridiculous. Cam being the clear MVP, after a car wreck and his worst season last year? Losing our best offensive weapon in pre-season?* Just a crazy wonderful season to be a fan and watch every game. One more to go and lord Newton willing, a miracle season.

*I know, I know, Olsen is great, but a rookie KB had the same yardage and more TDs than Olsen last year and was looking fantastic in pre-season. KB was looking like he was going to explode this year.

Even if the Broncos somehow pull out a miracle, Panthers fans have a lot of winning to look forward to.

Agreed. If they win, we'll have a great celebration but we've got a great young core with a lot to look forward to the next 5+ years and hopefully more Super Bowl trips.

 

[stbugs]

Cam is a different type of player, he is a 260lb QB who is a very athletic runner, and a clear goal line weapon. Cunningham, Steve Young, and Vick weren't goal line weapons like that by any means. The point is Cam's play this year is very difficult to defend seeing how the Panthers offense is the #1 scoring offense, the running game, and how he has become a true dual threat. Not to mention they just destroyed the Seahawks and Cardinals who had top notch defenses...

think whatever you want..

The Panthers squeaked out two wins against the Seahawks. In the first one at Seattle, Cam completed less than 56% of his passes and threw 2 INT's. In the 2nd one at home he only threw the ball 22 times. In both of those games Stewart had 2 rushing TD's.Yes, Cam is a tremendous dual threat but he threw up some clunkers this year where he was fortunate to get the win.

They squeaked out the first win, they didn't squeak out the second. They did what they shouldn't have done and tried to run the clock out and played prevent way too soon. They realized the mistake and played a full game against the Cardinals. Getting out to a 31-0 half time lead isn't squeaking out anything.

 

[solorca]

Honestly, the Broncos were way more favored (9-1, 6th) to go to this Super Bowl than Carolina (60-1, 23rd, after the freaking Rams). This season has been ridiculously above expectations for all Panther fans and is a success regardless of the result. We all want to win the Super Bowl, who wouldn't, but 17-1 and in the Super Bowl, that is ridiculous. Cam being the clear MVP, after a car wreck and his worst season last year? Losing our best offensive weapon in pre-season?* Just a crazy wonderful season to be a fan and watch every game. One more to go and lord Newton willing, a miracle season.

*I know, I know, Olsen is great, but a rookie KB had the same yardage and more TDs than Olsen last year and was looking fantastic in pre-season. KB was looking like he was going to explode this year.

Even if the Broncos somehow pull out a miracle, Panthers fans have a lot of winning to look forward to.

This is what I keep trying to tell myself. I don't want to be too overconfident in this game because I know the history of the Super Bowl and I know just how difficult it is to win. I remember watching Jake Delhomme play the game of his career, only to lose anyway.

If we win, it will be amazing. If we lose, I feel great about the future of this team. Damnit, I really want to win though.

 

[cstu]

Here's a surprising stat in Cam's favor.

QB's in their first Super Bowl against a QB with Super Bowl experience:

Wilson win vs. Peyton

Eli win vs. Brady

Rodgers win vs. Roethlisberger

Brees win vs. Peyton

Brady win vs. Warner

Aikman win vs. Kelly

Have to go back to 1984 to find a first time SB QB who lost to one with SB experience:

Marion loss vs. Montana

 

[Leroy Hoard]

Honestly, the Broncos were way more favored (9-1, 6th) to go to this Super Bowl than Carolina (60-1, 23rd, after the freaking Rams). This season has been ridiculously above expectations for all Panther fans and is a success regardless of the result. We all want to win the Super Bowl, who wouldn't, but 17-1 and in the Super Bowl, that is ridiculous. Cam being the clear MVP, after a car wreck and his worst season last year? Losing our best offensive weapon in pre-season?* Just a crazy wonderful season to be a fan and watch every game. One more to go and lord Newton willing, a miracle season.

*I know, I know, Olsen is great, but a rookie KB had the same yardage and more TDs than Olsen last year and was looking fantastic in pre-season. KB was looking like he was going to explode this year.

Even if the Broncos somehow pull out a miracle, Panthers fans have a lot of winning to look forward to.

Yes, and this is why all good Americans should be rooting for the old man to ride off into the sunset a winner. We will be seeing plenty of Carolina the next few years.