Five things to watch in Super Bowl 50
Five things to watch
1Cam Newton’s legs
The Denver Broncos’ No. 1-ranked defense hasn’t seen a quarterback as mobile as Cam Newton. The newly crowned league MVP has rushed for 686 yards, including the postseason, and 12 touchdowns on 153 carries. In 18 games this season, the Broncos have allowed 13 quarterbacks to gain only 207 rushing yards on 44 carries.
2Peyton Manning’s last rodeo?
Manning, 39, will retire with all kinds of NFL records, but will he end up with only one Super Bowl ring? Manning is 1-2 in Super Bowls, having completed 90 of 132 passes for 860 yards with three touchdowns, four interceptions and an 81.0 rating. Whether this is his “last rodeo,” or he tries to continue his career, Manning likely never gets to start another Super Bowl.
3Thomas Davis’ arm
The Pro Bowl linebacker broke his right forearm in the NFC Championship Game, requiring surgery. He will wear protection on the arm. But how effective will Davis be playing essentially with one arm? Davis was a difference-maker for the Panthers this season, ranking 33rd in the league in tackles with 105 during while intercepting four passes and forcing four fumbles.
4Panthers’ fast starts
Carolina has outscored its past six opponents by 118 points in the first half. The Panthers led Seattle 31-0 at halftime in the divisional round on their way to a 31-24 victory. They led Arizona 24-7 at halftime and increased their lead to 34-7 before winning 49-15.
5DeMarcus Ware’s first rodeo
The 11-year veteran will play in his first Super Bowl. Ware, 33, beat Patriots left tackle Sebastian Vollmer in the AFC title game, finishing with half a sack and seven quarterback hits. He draws Michael Oher this week. Oher allowed four sacks during the regular season, according to STATS, while being penalized twice for holding. He has not allowed a sack or been called for a hold in the postseason.
Charean Williams
Super Bowl 50
Kickoff: 5:30 p.m. Sunday
TV: CBS (KTVT/Channel 11)
Halftime show: Around 7 p.m.
This story was originally published February 6, 2016 at 4:59 PM with the headline "Five things to watch in Super Bowl 50."