The Broncos aren’t the popular choice. They aren’t flashy. The record isn’t what Carolina’s is. Their star isn’t up-to-date on the latest dance moves. Their defense could save them, though. They’ve slowed down Tom Brady and Aaron Rodgers, and Cam Newton is next on the docket. The last game of the NFL season will end in favor of the Orange and Blue: Peyton Manning won’t carry the team, but the Broncos will find a way to sneak away with the win.

Final: Denver 24, Carolina 22

Andrew Surma, Assistant Sports Editor

As interesting as it would be to see old Peyton Manning win a Super Bowl on his way out, the Carolina “football” Panthers are simply the standard, cream of the crop in the National Football League this season. Cameron “Superman” Newton is not only a specimen of physical ability, but has the mind of an elite pocket passer — not to mention his loose, confident attitude that rubs off on his teammates.

Final: Carolina 42, Denver 28

Evan Sasiela, Staff Reporter

Carolina quarterback Cam Newton is awaiting a MVP trophy and has been heralded as the new face of the NFL, with comparisons to Michael Vick in his prime.

Denver quarterback Peyton Manning has won only one Super Bowl ring with the Indianapolis Colts. Now approaching age 40, the Sheriff may be throwing in his badge after one final rodeo.

The perfect picture is painted for both players. Only one, however, will get the finishing touch.

With the two play callers in the spotlight, it may come down to the defense. The Panthers have Luke Kuechly in the middle, but Denver counters with Von Miller. Carolina’s Josh Norman is known for his strong play at cornerback, but so is the Broncos’ Aquib Talib.

Denver has had a strong running game and Carolina, despite not having Kelvin Benjamin this season, has been formidable in the passing attack. The game could come down to the final possession.

I believe when the clock hits zero at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, it will be Superman Cam Newton who will be taking the Lombardi Trophy back to his Fortress of Solitude in Charlotte.

Final: Carolina 34, Denver 27

Von Lozon, Staff Reporter

Super Bowl 50 is bound to be a nail-biter.

With the gunslinger Peyton Manning facing off against the new kid Cam Newton, this game could very well be a tossup.

Newton is having the best season he has ever had by far, throwing for 3,837 yards and 35 touchdowns, while also running for 636 yards and 10 touchdowns. Even if the Panthers lose this game, he is the favorite to win the NFL MVP award this season.

On the other side, Manning has struggled this year. Just two years removed from his record breaking season of 5,477 passing yards and 55 passing touchdowns, Manning only found the end zone nine times in 2015, while getting intercepted 17 times. Between his inconsistencies and his foot injury, backup quarterback Brock Osweiler played for six games in Manning’s absence.

Quarterback problems or not, the Denver defense stepped up like no other. Arguably the best defense in the game right now, they have decided many of the regular season games that were close for the Broncos.

However, Carolina’s defense is ready to fight back with stars like Luke Kuechly, Josh Norman and Kawann Short, who are having career seasons themselves.

At the end of the game, I think Carolina will become the Super Bowl 50 champions simply because of Newton and his ability to turn nothing into something.

Final: Carolina 35, Denver 30

Greg Wickliffe, Staff Reporter

The Panthers have been the best team all season, and on Sunday everything will come full circle. Although Denver’s defense is tough, Cam Newton and Carolina’s offense is on a roll and I don’t think Peyton Manning’s arm can beat out the Panthers’ defense. Cam will be dabbing all the way to a Super Bowl 50 trophy and probably the MVP.

Final: Carolina 31, Denver 17

Staff Predictions: Super Bowl 50 edition

Related Stories

Share: