Super Bowl 50 is shaping up to be an epic showdown between the Denver Broncos led by their spectacular defense and the aging Peyton Manning and the Carolina Panthers led by the seemingly indestructible Cam Newton. The obvious players to watch are the classic pocket passer, Manning, versus the new school dual-threat QB, Newton, however, there are a few others you to keep your eye on as well.
1. Luke Kuechly
The leader of the Carolina D, Luke Kuechly, has been an absolute beast in the playoffs. The man has 19 combined and two interceptions returned for touchdowns – enough said. If he can continue his dominance, the great Peyton Manning will have a tough time securing his second Super Bowl ring.
2. Demaryius Thomas
Demaryius Thomas has been oddly quiet this post season. During the regular season, he was the Broncos top offensive weapon with 100+ receptions and 1300+ yards. Thus far in the playoffs, he has 6 catches for a paltry 52 yards. If the Broncos are going to do anything offensively against Carolina, Thomas must step up his game and be the force he was in the regular season.
3. Jonathan Stewart
Jonathan Stewart has averaged 5 yards per carry in the playoffs, quietly becoming a real weapon for the Panthers. While Cam Newton at times appears to be super human on the field, he does need assistance from his team. Jonathan is just the man for the job. With the lethal Denver pass rush looking to decapitate Newton, Stewart will have a few lanes open to run free.
4. Von Miller
The aforementioned Denver pass rush is led by none other than Von Miller. Von Miller took over the game versus the Patriots with constant pressure; Tom Brady is probably still having nightmares. Cam Newton has had a consistent pocket all season long and has picked apart every defense put in front of him as a result. Von Miller is one of the select few players in the league who has the ability to crush Cam Newton’s comfort zone, changing the whole scope of the game.
Any one of the above players can make or break this game. Whoever breaks through may be the difference between Cam Newton’s first Super Bowl victory and Peyton Manning cementing his legacy with his second championship.
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