SuperBowl 50 Thread

paulie21

Carolina Panthers v Denver Broncos @ Levi's Stadium, Santa Clara (KO 11.30PM)

Live On Sky Sports 1 and BBC from 10PM

adrian522

Taking Carolina in this one, Denver will keep it close but Carolina's superior offense will see them home as long as Cam doesn't suffer some sort of meltdown.

Ted Ginn for MVP!

paulie21

Hey meant to add a poll. Can a Mod please do this

Rock Lesnar

Really would like to see the Panthers win this now, they are just exciting to watch, Cam looks like he's just having the craic, and to get this far without your best receiver in Benjamin while relying on lads like Ted Ginn has been a great achievement.

Go Panthers

I could see the panthers win this comfortably to be honest (though i would hate to see manning go out like that particularly after how his last sb went)

adrian522

Broncos get both end zones?

https://twitter.com/SamuelYLam/status/692221830623563778

adrian522

Broncos get both end zones?

https://twitter.com/SamuelYLam/status/692221830623563778

j8wk2feszrnpao

I would love to see Manning go out on a high. Been a great player and a factor in the growth of the sport. It's been the defense that's got him to this SB and they need to be great to get him another ring.

Carolina have been great this year. They've been outstanding in the playoffs and have really cruised to the SB. Could do with less of Cam's overly practiced and overly long TD celebrations, but he's the MVP and been a joy to watch this year. His personality and the general vibe within the team has made them a fun team to watch.

With Denvers D, they should keep the game interesting into the 4th quarter. But it's hard to see a weakness in Carolina who possibly have as good a defense and superior offense. I really hope we don't see a repeat of Super Bowl XLVIII when it was over by HT.

j8wk2feszrnpao

I would love to see Manning go out on a high. Been a great player and a factor in the growth of the sport. It's been the defense that's got him to this SB and they need to be great to get him another ring.

Carolina have been great this year. They've been outstanding in the playoffs and have really cruised to the SB. Could do with less of Cam's overly practiced and overly long TD celebrations, but he's the MVP and been a joy to watch this year. His personality and the general vibe within the team has made them a fun team to watch.

With Denvers D, they should keep the game interesting into the 4th quarter. But it's hard to see a weakness in Carolina who possibly have as good a defense and superior offense. I really hope we don't see a repeat of Super Bowl XLVIII when it was over by HT.

Jolly Red Giant

munstermagic11 wrote: »

But it's hard to see a weakness in Carolina who possibly have as good a defense

Jaysus - not this nonsense again - the Panthers defence is not as good as the Broncos - it has glaring weaknesses in the secondary - the Broncos defence does not have any - and the Broncos get more pressure (and faster pressure) than the Panthers. Furthermore the Panthers play a lot of zone which matches up well with Manning's ability to read defences and use his quick release (the big question is whether Manning can go deep enough to take advantage of the zone and the weak secondary)

munstermagic11 wrote: »

and superior offense.

The Panthers offence is better than the Broncos offence - but again the Broncos defence matches up very well against the Panthers.

From a Denver perspective - NE were a more difficult offence to pay against. This doesn't mean that the Broncos will keep Carolina to less points than NE - but that the type of offence employed by the Panthers suits the Broncos defence better.

(It must be a Pats thing - )

JCTO

Jolly Red Giant wrote: »

(It must be a Pats thing - )

I really don't care what team wins but if I had to choose I would like to see Manning win and go out on a high but when I see your posts and your constant obsession with Pats fans the more I'd like to see the Panthers do it. Love how you take digs at Pats fans all the time and tar us all with the same brush you just can't help yourself. Hilarious really.

j8wk2feszrnpao

Jolly Red Giant wrote: »

Jaysus - not this nonsense again - the Panthers defence is not as good as the Broncos

Grow up. People can have a different opinion than you. I said they "possibly" have as good a defense, I didn't state any definates.

Jolly Red Giant wrote: »

(It must be a Pats thing - )

The guy that's banned from the Pats thread can't make an argument without taking a shot at the Pats. You've an issue with Pats fans, yet you've no problem with your own behaviour.

Moist Bread

The thread has taken a predictable turn.

Hope Manning plays well, but I would be happy if either team wins.

Paully D

A nice predicament of just being able to relax and enjoy the game as I don't care who wins.

It'd be great to see Manning sign off with another ring and given how the season went for him it'd be a cool way to end the story. Though the HGH report is definitely an elephant in the room.

I'm also a big fan of Cam and I'm still in disbelief that this Panthers roster went 15-1 and made it to the Super Bowl after being 60/1 to win it all before the season kicked off. If they were to win it it'd also be a great story.

Hopefully it's a great game with the best team on the night winning.

Jolly Red Giant

JCTO wrote: »

I really don't care what team wins but if I had to choose I would like to see Manning win and go out on a high but when I see your posts and your constant obsession with Pats fans the more I'd like to see the Panthers do it. Love how you take digs at Pats fans all the time and tar us all with the same brush you just can't help yourself. Hilarious really.

Pats fan comes on and makes a throwaway comment that the Panthers defence are better than the Broncos defence.

I demonstrate how the Broncos defence are better

Pats fan makes another throwaway comment

I post a long and detailed analysis of the Panthers offence and how the Broncos defence matches up very well to what the Panthers do on offence

Pats fan comes along and takes an arrogant dig but provides zero commentary on what I posted

Others comment

I make a return comment outlining the weaknesses with the Panthers defence and how the Broncos offence can exploit the defence

Pats fan comes in and makes a throwaway comment that the Panthers are possibly as good on defence as Denver.

I have no problem with people expressing an opinion - but if your opinion is refuted by evidence than I would suggest that instead f simply repeating your opinion and adding nothing to the discussion your should make an effort to outline the reasons why you hold this opinion.

I will proceed to demonstrate.

I have suggested that the Panthers defence has weaknesses.

In November the Panthers signed Finnegan to play CB - a guy who has a history of violence on the field and who retired many months before being signed. This guy is now the starting CB for the Panthers - he is a loose cannon who matches up poorly against WRs and is prone to losing the plot.

In December the Panthers signed McClain to play CB - a player who has bounced around teams for several seasons and was cut by the Pats in pre-season. McClain is now e nickel back with the Panthers. Surely if McClain is good enough to play nickel back in a defence that is possibly the best in the NFL then BB would have considered him good enough for a roster spot on a Pats defence that is not close to being the best in th NFL.

Now - if you want to discuss and debate the merits of either teams offence or defence then have at it - but is it really worth the effort just to keep repeating throwaway comments.

j8wk2feszrnpao

JRG, you took your bitterness from another thread into this one. And struck out like a child because someone felt that the Panthers D may possibly have as good a defense. That's all on you.

SantryRed

I hope the Broncos get smashed, purely because JRG is pissing me off at this stage.

adrian522

It's going to be weird watching the Super bowl kick off in daylight. 3:30pm kickoff I think.

First time since 2003 I think.

poldebruin

adrian522 wrote: »

It's going to be weird watching the Super bowl kick off in daylight. 3:30pm kickoff I think.

First time since 2003 I think.

Yeah, it is strange the kickoff is so early - what's the thinking behind it? That said, it'll be far easier to watch with an 23:30 kickoff time here.

adrian522

Always the same kick off time I think, just on the West coast its 3 hours earlier, last year it would have been 6.30ET but still 11:30pm hre.

Areyouwell

Manning has virtually done nothing this season to deserve a ring, but as a Colts fan & for sentimental reasons it would be kinda nice to see him retire with another one.

Jolly Red Giant

munstermagic11 wrote: »

JRG, you took your bitterness from another thread into this one. And struck out like a child because someone felt that the Panthers D may possibly have as good a defense. That's all on you.

may 'possibly' have - right -

eagle eye wrote: »

You have to respect the Denver D but the Panthers D is arguably even better.

Not a 'may possibly be' - but an 'arguably even better'

Now I have zero issue with people expressing their opinion - but if you are going to express and opinion then please explain the reasons for this opinion.

In my opinion the Panthers defence has glaring weaknesses - I have outlined some of those weaknesses.

Now - lets debate and discuss the merits of both teams and the impact it might have on the game.

There is another factor that will cause problems for the Panthers defence - Davis will play less than two weeks after he had 12 pins inserted in his broken arm. Now matter how well he recovers Davis will struggle in the tackle.

JCTO

JRG grow up. You had some excellent posts about why and how the Broncos can win but yet becasue a Pats fan made a comment you didn't agree with that makes his comments throwaway and you then tar all Pats fans with the same brush. Got to love it. My question had non Pats fans made the comments or disagreed would you have gotten your knickers in a twist? I bet not. You constantly undo some solid posting with your obsession with the Patriots. I agree with a lot of your posts but its sad you can't accept the difference of opinion at all or accept you are not always right. Your opinion is just as valid as anyone elses.

Jolly Red Giant wrote: »

Now - lets debate and discuss the merits of both teams and the impact it might have on the game.

I don't see how anyone can with you as if they don't agree with you they are throwaway comments or wrong.

OldMrBrennan83

This post has been deleted.

Jolly Red Giant

JCTO wrote: »

JRG grow up. You had some excellent posts about why and how the Broncos can win but yet becasue a Pats fan made a comment you didn't agree with that makes his comments throwaway and you then tar all Pats fans with the same brush. Got to love it. My question had non Pats fans made the comments or disagreed would you have gotten your knickers in a twist? I bet not. You constantly undo some solid posting with your obsession with the Patriots. I agree with a lot of your posts but its sad you can't accept the difference of opinion at all or accept you are not always right. Your opinion is just as valid as anyone elses.

If you go through the different threads it was actually 4 different Pats fans

I don't see how anyone can with you as if they don't agree with you they are throwaway comments or wrong.

A silly one line comment without any reasoning to back it up is a throwaway comment. And EE made more than one.

Disagree with me all you want - take the posts I have made and make counter arguments to demonstrate that I am wrong - I have no problem with any of that. But simply saying stuff like 'the Panthers defence is arguably better' is rightly treated with derision.

The SB is the biggest game of the year - between the best team in each conference (and note I didn't say the two best teams in the NFL). We have a week to go and I would love to debate the merits of both teams. But if someone has no interest in such a debate/discussion then what is the point of posting a nonsense comment.

eagle eye

I still think the Panthers D is arguably better.

JCTO

Jolly Red Giant wrote: »

If you go through the different threads it was actually 4 different Pats fans

So 4 Pats fans means all Pats fans? Sure. And ifd they weren't Pats fans would you be making ridiculous sweeping generalisations back or making the point about the team they support? I bet not as you are obsessed with the Pats.

A silly one line comment without any reasoning to back it up is a throwaway comment. And EE made more than one.

In your opinion they are throwaway comments. Just because someone doesn't go into detail with their opinion that doesn't make it a throwaway comment. You are basically rubbishing their opinion.

Disagree with me all you want - take the posts I have made and make counter arguments to demonstrate that I am wrong - I have no problem with any of that. But simply saying stuff like 'the Panthers defence is arguably better' is rightly treated with derision.

I will remember that the next time you do the same thing which happens a lot with you. Only time you don't use to use your phrase throwaway comments is when you are telling us the facts or your opinion on the Broncos sometime hard to distinguish between the two.

The SB is the biggest game of the year - between the best team in each conference (and note I didn't say the two best teams in the NFL). We have a week to go and I would love to debate the merits of both teams. But if someone has no interest in such a debate/discussion then what is the point of posting a nonsense comment.

This right here sums you up. Saying my comments are nonsense. Where did I say I have no interest in the bowl? I would happily discuss the merits of each team but to be honest not with you as it would be a waste of time for two reasons. 1. I agree with a lot of what you said but I wouldn't say someone is responding with throwaway comments 2. It would be pointless debating with you anyways because you have banged in a lot of posts in here and it is clear you only see it one way and that is your way.

I actually think the panthers d may be better all round as well to be honest.

I missed some of the posts where you outlined potential weaknesses in the panthers d also would you mind reminding me.

cosatron

I agree with nerd and eagle aswell.

bruschi

so peoples opinions should be derided? That if they dont agree with one person they are wrong? And this is considered "debating". The same opinion that says the Panthers D is over rated (ranked only number 3 in comparison to Denver at 2 and Seattle at 1 in a lot of overall ranking tables) and that the offence too is over rated (ranked number 2 with Arizona 1 in comparison to Denver at 18).

Even those rankings are all subjective. Some people weigh some things more important than other things. Weight of opposition etc should be taken into account and division etc. All these things are variable, but the one thing that you should not be able to deride is someone's opinion. If someone thinks the Panthers D is good and in some cases better than the Denver D, then why does anyone have the right to deride that opinion? Its not like we are talking about comparing the Denver D with the Jags or the Browns. We are talking about a defence that has good stats to back up their seasons work and that has lost only 1 game this year. That vaunted Denver D has had a lot of poor days out as well, as spectacular as they were against the Patriots, Cam and the Carolina offence bring a totally different type of gameplay, and importantly, a run game.

Personally, I think Carolina have enough on offence to score more than what Denver can do against Carolinas defence. If Carolina stop the run game early, which despite improvements for Denver is not exactly a well oiled machine, then I think they have enough in their secondary to stop the pass game if it comes down to leaving it on Mannings shoulder.

The Reservoir Dubs Anchorman

CJ Anderson is going to be MVP, is going to run for 150 Yards and 3 TD's and the Broncos are going to win this one 30-27



I agree with everything you said JRG

Boo to the Pats ... Boo I tell's ya, especially that Brady lad, hope he's at home shining his rings or at least Giselle's!

---

Seriously lads lets just discuss the Superbowl between the Bronco's and the Panthers.

No need to bring up the painful defeat for the Patriots fans I'm sure they haven't recovered yet.

Two playoff losses in a row to Manning might make Brady consider retirement.

Alright enough ..

---

Seriously though, I would love to see Peyton go out with a ring. Not sure it will happen though, his WR's have had a bad case of the dropsies over the last few games. Thomas has been terrible and he is going to be key if Denver are going to win. I think the Denver defence is a little bit better than Carolina, just looking at the numbers they don't give up nearly as many points but the Panthers problem on D is the deep ball and not sure Peyton has that in his locker at the moment.

Davis' injury is going to be a really pivotal factor, if he is not as effective as he has been then Peyton will get time to scan and even with a 75% arm I think he can cause damage, as long as the WR's catch the ball. Personally I think Gary Kubiak's continued use of Ronnie Hillman is baffling. Anderson is the talent here, just give him the rock and let him do the damage.

I hope as well that this one is a good game, like last year's not a Seattle or Patriots fan (Redskins for my sins) but man I enjoyed last year's it was terrific!

The Reservoir Dubs Anchorman

CJ Anderson is going to be MVP, is going to run for 150 Yards and 3 TD's and the Broncos are going to win this one 30-27



I agree with everything you said JRG

Boo to the Pats ... Boo I tell's ya, especially that Brady lad, hope he's at home shining his rings or at least Giselle's!

---

Seriously lads lets just discuss the Superbowl between the Bronco's and the Panthers.

No need to bring up the painful defeat for the Patriots fans I'm sure they haven't recovered yet.

Two playoff losses in a row to Manning might make Brady consider retirement.

Alright enough ..

---

Seriously though, I would love to see Peyton go out with a ring. Not sure it will happen though, his WR's have had a bad case of the dropsies over the last few games. Thomas has been terrible and he is going to be key if Denver are going to win. I think the Denver defence is a little bit better than Carolina, just looking at the numbers they don't give up nearly as many points but the Panthers problem on D is the deep ball and not sure Peyton has that in his locker at the moment.

Davis' injury is going to be a really pivotal factor, if he is not as effective as he has been then Peyton will get time to scan and even with a 75% arm I think he can cause damage, as long as the WR's catch the ball. Personally I think Gary Kubiak's continued use of Ronnie Hillman is baffling. Anderson is the talent here, just give him the rock and let him do the damage.

I hope as well that this one is a good game, like last year's not a Seattle or Patriots fan (Redskins for my sins) but man I enjoyed last year's it was terrific!

Jolly Red Giant

JCTO wrote: »

So 4 Pats fans means all Pats fans?

Being picky - I said 'Pats fans' - not 'all Pats fans' - If I wanted to imply all Pats fans then I would have said 'all Pats fans'

JCTO wrote: »

In your opinion they are throwaway comments. Just because someone doesn't go into detail with their opinion that doesn't make it a throwaway comment. You are basically rubbishing their opinion.

Actually I don't have a problem with a throwaway comment either - as you allude to - I make plenty myself.

The issue I have is when someone comes in and repeats the throwaway comment when evidence has been presented that could refute such an 'opinion'

JCTO wrote: »

This right here sums you up. Saying my comments are nonsense. Where did I say I have no interest in the bowl?

And where did I say that your comments were nonsense or that you didn't have an interest in the SB. You are taking a general comment and directing it at yourself.

JCTO wrote: »

I would happily discuss the merits of each team but to be honest not with you as it would be a waste of time for two reasons. 1. I agree with a lot of what you said but I wouldn't say someone is responding with throwaway comments 2. It would be pointless debating with you anyways because you have banged in a lot of posts in here and it is clear you only see it one way and that is your way.

In fact I think I have been quite balanced in my comments on the merits of the SB teams.

I am a Broncos fan so I look at things from the perspective of the Broncos - but not for one moment would I suggest that they are not a limited team. The Panthers are a better all-round team - but the Broncos defence is good enough to actually influence the outcome of the game. Whether Denver can put enough points on the board to win is a different matter.

As for the throwaway comments - well - to demonstrate again -

eagle eye wrote: »

I still think the Panthers D is arguably better.

Why?

Jolly Red Giant

bruschi wrote: »

so peoples opinions should be derided? That if they dont agree with one person they are wrong? And this is considered "debating". The same opinion that says the Panthers D is over rated (ranked only number 3 in comparison to Denver at 2 and Seattle at 1 in a lot of overall ranking tables) and that the offence too is over rated (ranked number 2 with Arizona 1 in comparison to Denver at 18).

Even those rankings are all subjective. Some people weigh some things more important than other things. Weight of opposition etc should be taken into account and division etc. All these things are variable, but the one thing that you should not be able to deride is someone's opinion. If someone thinks the Panthers D is good and in some cases better than the Denver D, then why does anyone have the right to deride that opinion? Its not like we are talking about comparing the Denver D with the Jags or the Browns. We are talking about a defence that has good stats to back up their seasons work and that has lost only 1 game this year.

Have an opinion - but apart from the rankings which you accept are of limited use - can you provide evidence that the Panthers D warrants its rankings (if that is your opinion

bruschi wrote: »

That vaunted Denver D has had a lot of poor days out as well,

The Broncos D has had one poor performance - against the Steelers in the regular season - and it was a kick in the butt for them

bruschi wrote: »

as spectacular as they were against the Patriots, Cam and the Carolina offence bring a totally different type of gameplay, and importantly, a run game.

yes - Carolina are a different proposition to the Pats - and I have outlined why, in my opinion, the Broncos match up better against the Panthers offence. The running game will be the key - if the Panthers can consistently run the ball then they will win the game.

bruschi wrote: »

Personally, I think Carolina have enough on offence to score more than what Denver can do against Carolinas defence. If Carolina stop the run game early, which despite improvements for Denver is not exactly a well oiled machine, then I think they have enough in their secondary to stop the pass game if it comes down to leaving it on Mannings shoulder.

The secondary is the biggest weakness in the Panthers defence - and the weakness (particularly playing zone) is something even a poor and weak Manning can exploit.

Jolly Red Giant

The Reservoir Dubs Anchorman wrote: »

Seriously though, I would love to see Peyton go out with a ring. Not sure it will happen though, his WR's have had a bad case of the dropsies over the last few games. Thomas has been terrible and he is going to be key if Denver are going to win.

A big part of the reason for the dropped passes is the fact that Manning has no zip on the ball - WRs are used to catching balls that have zip - trying to adjust to a ball that is floated can cause problems.

I also wouldn't agree that Thomas has been terrible. He hasn't been playing elite but has had some good games and some important receptions. Some people have suggested that the distractions around his mother's release from prison have been an issue - I don't know - but I like Thomas and I think he will produce in the SB.

The Reservoir Dubs Anchorman wrote: »

I think the Denver defence is a little bit better than Carolina, just looking at the numbers they don't give up nearly as many points but the Panthers problem on D is the deep ball and not sure Peyton has that in his locker at the moment.

there are holes in the secondary and Manning doesn't have to go deep to exploit them. If manning has the time then he can find the receivers - the big question is whether the OL can give him the time.

The Reservoir Dubs Anchorman wrote: »

Personally I think Gary Kubiak's continued use of Ronnie Hillman is baffling. Anderson is the talent here, just give him the rock and let him do the damage.

Anderson is the better back - but he has been playing injured most of the season. Anderson is most effective with the QB under center - Manning can't play under center - and hence the reason for using Hillman who is more effective with Manning in the pistol or shotgun.

The Reservoir Dubs Anchorman wrote: »

I hope as well that this one is a good game, like last year's not a Seattle or Patriots fan (Redskins for my sins) but man I enjoyed last year's it was terrific!

A blowout would be embarrassing for the Broncos and if Fox was still coaching the team I would be worried about that. But this Broncos team is a kicking and screaming team - they will fight to the bitter end for every yard - and it may well be enough for them to pull out the win in the end.

poldebruin

My two cents - for what it's worth.....

If someone replies that something is arguably better, they should possibly back up the statement with some sort of argument to support it. It *is* rather lightweight to claim, for example, that Philip Rivers is arguably a better QB than Tom Brady, without something substantive to back it up. There is a place for lightweight/throwaway comments on a fan forum, but i see nothing wrong in calling someone on it and inviting them to elaborate?

Denver's D is better though.

poldebruin

My two cents - for what it's worth.....

If someone replies that something is arguably better, they should possibly back up the statement with some sort of argument to support it. It *is* rather lightweight to claim, for example, that Philip Rivers is arguably a better QB than Tom Brady, without something substantive to back it up. There is a place for lightweight/throwaway comments on a fan forum, but i see nothing wrong in calling someone on it and inviting them to elaborate?

Denver's D is better though.

poldebruin

Patww79 wrote: »

This post has been deleted.

While I can *kind of* understand the feeling - Denver's Super Bowls have not really been exciting spectacles for the most part - but after watching NFL all season, the two no. 1 seeds from each conference reach the final, the no. 1 offense v the no.1 defense, probably Peyton Manning's last game, Cam Newton's possible coronation, and you have no interest? I think I'd just give up watching the NFL if I felt this way before a Super Bowl

bruschi

poldebruin wrote: »

My two cents - for what it's worth.....

If someone replies that something is arguably better, they should possibly back up the statement with some sort of argument to support it. It *is* rather lightweight to claim, for example, that Philip Rivers is arguably a better QB than Tom Brady, without something substantive to back it up. There is a place for lightweight/throwaway comments on a fan forum, but i see nothing wrong in calling someone on it and inviting them to elaborate?

Denver's D is better though.

I dont disagree with that either, but would you expect to be derided for making that comment? People have made comments on here as to why they think they are as good, but to be told they are "rightly treated with derision"?

I too think Denvers D is better. That's my opinion. Do I need to go into details as to why I think they are better? This place is for opinion and debate. Opinions arent facts. Ramming ones own opinions as facts and pretty much telling everyone else their opinion is wrong is not debate.

Anyway, as for the game, I think it will be similar in effect to the Patriots one and the real battle is between Denvers defence and Carolinas offence. Whoever wins that battle will win in my opinion.

Morrison J

Right now I don't really care but I reckon the Nantz/Sims Peyton love-in fest to come will have me cheering on the Panthers. Don't think I can deal with seeing that type of bias winning.

I think Newton could have a field day with his legs. Broncos definitely will regret it if they rush Newton like they did Brady. Newton will evade the likes of Miller and Ware and run for first downs all day. They've got to contain him. I'd be worried for Denver if Shane Ray sees the field.

Panthers by 10 is my prediction but I'm a bit afraid that the football gods will somehow make Peyton win this one. Just seems like it's destined to happen. I just don't see any logical way in which it happens unless the Broncos get themselves up a couple of scores early like they did against the Pats. Still don't think that'll be enough with the Panthers offense being so much more dynamic.

Panthers by 10. Newton MVP.

Jolly Red Giant

Morrison J wrote: »

Right now I don't really care but I reckon the Nantz/Sims Peyton love-in fest to come will have me cheering on the Panthers. Don't think I can deal with seeing that type of bias winning.

A Peyton love-in would be annoying - as someone else said, Manning hasn't done anything this season to deserve a ring. If the Broncos win it will be a team win.

On the upside - Sims hates the Broncos

Morrison J wrote: »

I think Newton could have a field day with his legs. Broncos definitely will regret it if they rush Newton like they did Brady. Newton will evade the likes of Miller and Ware and run for first downs all day. They've got to contain him. I'd be worried for Denver if Shane Ray sees the field.

The Broncos got pressure with a four man rush against the Pats (and sometimes with only three).

The Panthers run narrow heavy lines - if they use max protection then the Broncos will have oppertunities to run down Newton from the backside - if they use six-man protection then Oher/Norwell will be matched up one-on-one with Ware/Jackson - a nightmare for the OLmen

Newton has to be contained - but the Broncos match up well against the offensive scheme the Panthers run in order to be able to contain him. I am looking forward to this because Newton is fun to watch.

It will all come down to how well the Panthers can run the ball - if they can run effectively then they will win - if the Broncos stop the run then Newton will be in for a long day.

Morrison J wrote: »

Panthers by 10 is my prediction but I'm a bit afraid that the football gods will somehow make Peyton win this one. Just seems like it's destined to happen. I just don't see any logical way in which it happens unless the Broncos get themselves up a couple of scores early like they did against the Pats. Still don't think that'll be enough with the Panthers offense being so much more dynamic.

The Broncos won up to 10 games this season they really had no right in winning - there does seem to be elements of destiny and that could get Manning a ring. But the reality is that such things really don't happen. If the Broncos win it will be because the defence plays its lights out and pounds Newton and the RBs all day long.

Jolly Red Giant

bruschi wrote: »

Anyway, as for the game, I think it will be similar in effect to the Patriots one and the real battle is between Denvers defence and Carolinas offence. Whoever wins that battle will win in my opinion.

Denver's offence will still have to put points on the board - the defence isn't going to score 3 TDs.

No matter how good the Broncos defence is Newton and the Panthers are capable of scoring 21 points.

dub_skav

Morrison J wrote: »

I think Newton could have a field day with his legs. Broncos definitely will regret it if they rush Newton like they did Brady. Newton will evade the likes of Miller and Ware and run for first downs all day. They've got to contain him. I'd be worried for Denver if Shane Ray sees the field.

I agree that Newton will be a threat, but I don't believe Denver should over plan for his legs, he really only seems to do that on designed runs or when things completely break down, he has really turned into a solid and disciplined pocket passer.

Just on the bolded bit though, :P

The Reservoir Dubs Anchorman

That's a valid point Newton has got great legs and has developed his awareness in the pocket but I would not be betting on him getting away from Von Miller or Ware, if the Bronco's consistently get pressure on him their defence will get some turnovers. As good as Cam has been he has turned the ball over a lot this season, 14 regular season , that's almost 1 per game and I think Denver will need to get 3 turnovers here to win this game but I wouldn't put it past them.

Also JRG I disagree on Thomas playing well. For me the surprising thing has been his inability to separate. While your saying the drop are because of a lack of zip on the ball if the ball is hitting players in the hands and they are simply not holding on then I don't accept the lack of zip as a reason for the drop. There were far too many passes that hopped off players because they had their eye up field.

Thomas is a gamers and gamers usually come up big on the big occasion and I hope he does it on Sunday but I think Manning goes to Sanders if he's under pressure in this game because Thomas just hasn't been good.

The Reservoir Dubs Anchorman

That's a valid point Newton has got great legs and has developed his awareness in the pocket but I would not be betting on him getting away from Von Miller or Ware, if the Bronco's consistently get pressure on him their defence will get some turnovers. As good as Cam has been he has turned the ball over a lot this season, 14 regular season , that's almost 1 per game and I think Denver will need to get 3 turnovers here to win this game but I wouldn't put it past them.

Also JRG I disagree on Thomas playing well. For me the surprising thing has been his inability to separate. While your saying the drop are because of a lack of zip on the ball if the ball is hitting players in the hands and they are simply not holding on then I don't accept the lack of zip as a reason for the drop. There were far too many passes that hopped off players because they had their eye up field.

Thomas is a gamers and gamers usually come up big on the big occasion and I hope he does it on Sunday but I think Manning goes to Sanders if he's under pressure in this game because Thomas just hasn't been good.

eagle eye

poldebruin wrote: »

My two cents - for what it's worth.....

If someone replies that something is arguably better, they should possibly back up the statement with some sort of argument to support it. It *is* rather lightweight to claim, for example, that Philip Rivers is arguably a better QB than Tom Brady, without something substantive to back it up. There is a place for lightweight/throwaway comments on a fan forum, but i see nothing wrong in calling someone on it and inviting them to elaborate?

Denver's D is better though.

So we can all have a go at you now?

bruschi wrote: »

I dont disagree with that either, but would you expect to be derided for making that comment? People have made comments on here as to why they think they are as good, but to be told they are "rightly treated with derision"?

I too think Denvers D is better. That's my opinion. Do I need to go into details as to why I think they are better? This place is for opinion and debate. Opinions arent facts. Ramming ones own opinions as facts and pretty much telling everyone else their opinion is wrong is not debate.

Anyway, as for the game, I think it will be similar in effect to the Patriots one and the real battle is between Denvers defence and Carolinas offence. Whoever wins that battle will win in my opinion.

Nope, apparently only have to do that if you think the Panthers D is better.

raze_them_all_

Panthers by at least 3 scores i Reckon

JCTO

Jolly Red Giant wrote: »

Being picky - I said 'Pats fans' - not 'all Pats fans' - If I wanted to imply all Pats fans then I would have said 'all Pats fans'

You have written so much it is clear you are forgetting what digs you are taking:

(It must be a Pats thing - )

This is clear taring all Pats fans with the same brush because you didn't agree with 1 Pats fan not 4.

Actually I don't have a problem with a throwaway comment either - as you allude to - I make plenty myself.

You don't have a problem with them but yet you keep throwing it back at a poster. Ok. Your posts give off a different impression.

The issue I have is when someone comes in and repeats the throwaway comment when evidence has been presented that could refute such an 'opinion'

How silly of me to jump the gun above. But your evidence is YOUR opinion and as much as I agree with some of your opinion in your posts they are not all fact and the other post is entitled to his opinion whether he goes into detail or not whether you agree or not. Getting all bent out of shape about a "throwaway comment is pointless at best.

And where did I say that your comments were nonsense or that you didn't have an interest in the SB. You are taking a general comment and directing it at yourself.

You don't remember saying this? You responded to me with it:

I would love to debate the merits of both teams. But if someone has no interest in such a debate/discussion then what is the point of posting a nonsense comment.

The funny thing is you say you would love to debate the merits but you have done nothing but force your opinion on people and talk about throwaway comments. I bet you anything had you not done so more would be debating you. I was going to get involved and give my take but decided not to because I know for a fact you would get bent out of shape if I brought up the Panthers D. In fact I I agree with a lot of your posts but I also do think the Panthers Defense is stronger than you think.

Also the end of this quote you mention the nonsense comment bit.

In fact I think I have been quite balanced in my comments on the merits of the SB teams.

Except when someone brings up the Panthers defense. I don't agree that you have been balanced to be honest.

I will say this though that this game will come down to turnovers. If the Panthers can pick off Manning or cause fumbles their offense will finish the Broncos off and it wont matter how good that defense is. The key for Carolina is to keep that Broncos defense on the field and that means shutting down Manning and creating turnovers. The Broncos defense will wear down.

Smart football needed by Manning and that offense and keeping the ball moving and they win this game as that Broncos D will do enough.

OldMrBrennan83

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The Reservoir Dubs Anchorman

Patww79 wrote: »

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Manning and Newton are two of the most likeable players in the league.

OldMrBrennan83

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