Cam Newton, the young gunslinger from Carolina led his team to an impressive one-loss season and won the league’s MVP award. Meanwhile, Peyton Manning, the “Sheriff” from Denver, limped into the playoffs in what is likely his last of 18 great years of football.
This was the first Super Bowl to feature quarterbacks who were both drafted first overall.
The game was played in San Francisco’s new stadium. The 50th Super Bowl kicked off by introducing every Super Bowl MVP to the field. Joe Montana, the 49er’s Hall of Fame quarterback, performed the opening coin toss and Denver started with the ball.
The first quarter was an action packed defensive struggle. The players were clearly energized to be playing in the big game, but tensions were running high quickly. The Bronco’s defensive star Von Miller recovered a fumble and scored the first touchdown of the game, making the score 10-0 in Denver’s favor.
Carolina responded immediately in the second quarter thanks to RB Jonathan Stewart’s leaping 1-yard touchdown run. The Denver special teams unit answered with a huge 61-yard punt return, the longest in Super Bowl history. Ex-University of Michigan and rookie WR Devin Funchess was able to help the Panthers with a spectacular catch, but the Broncos headed to the locker room ahead 13-7.
The halftime show featured some classic tunes from Coldplay, some below average lip syncing by Bruno Mars, and a killer performance from Beyonce. Coldplay finished along to a montage of clips from the most memorable Super Bowl halftime shows. Vibes were high going into the second half of an already exciting game.
Unfortunately, the second half was not nearly as riveting. Despite each team’s defense forcing critical turnovers, neither offense could capitalize on the opportunities. The Panther’s kicker missed a field goal in the third quarter as the game stumbled into the final 15 minutes with Denver leading 16-7.
The Panthers had their chance to make a comeback, but a fumble from Newton deep in Carolina’s territory gave Manning an easy opportunity to score the game sealing touchdown. The final score was 24-10, Denver Broncos over the Carolina Panthers.
Manning won his second Super Bowl and 200th game; he now holds the record for all-time career wins (including playoffs). Von Miller was named Super Bowl MVP.
This Super Bowl was definitely great, but now I can’t wait for Super Bowl 51.
My prediction: Carolina returns in great style, and wins!
Contributed by: Jake Silver