Denver Broncos vs. Carolina Panthers: Ten X-Factors in Super Bowl 50

Denver Broncos

Peyton Manning’s ability to push the ball down the field

Since Peyton Manning returned to the starting lineup in Week 17 versus the San Diego Chargers, this has been of the utmost importance for the Broncos. Manning’s ability to strike deep downfield does wonders for the team’s offense. With the opposing secondaries backed up a bit, Denver is able to implement the short and medium passing game, which has been their bread and butter since “The Sheriff” arrived. Look for Manning to take advantage of the Panthers’ banged up secondary.

Effectively running the ball

The Broncos had high hopes for a strong running game this season when Gary Kubiak was hired as head coach. Instead, all the team has gotten is inconsistencies and frustration. Denver has been better as of late, but will need to employ something that resembles an effective rushing attack against Carolina.

Dynamic running backs Ronnie Hillman and C.J. Anderson will be facing a defense ranked seventh versus the run, led by the leading tackler in the NFL (130), linebacker Luke Kuechly. When the Broncos rush for over 105 yards this season, they’re 9-0.

Keeping Cam Newton in the pocket

There isn’t much more the Broncos are more concerned with than this. Cam Newton has been sensational this year. He’s downright unstoppable, especially when outside the pocket. Newton is a master at extending plays and at making something out of nothing. He’s as effective running the ball as he is at throwing it, rushing for 636 yards and 10 touchdowns on the season.

To limit this, the Broncos will attempt to close up all running lanes when Newton drops back to pass, utilizing a “mush rush”. Denver defensive coordinator Wade Phillips will do everything in his power to keep Newton from getting outside the pocket, essentially making the Panthers’ signal-caller strictly a pocket-passer. Phillips may also employ a ‘Quarterback Spy’ on Newton to further limit his mobility.

Quick note: Cam Newton’s completion percentage in the regular season was 59.8%, as opposed to his 70% completion percentage in the postseason. Make of that what you will.

Defending the Panthers deep ball

Cam Newton and the Panthers offense have practically made a living off of the deep ball this season, and that won’t change even if they’re playing the NFL’s top-ranked defense. The Broncos have struggled with speedy receivers and that’s exactly what Carolina has in Ted Ginn Jr. and Corey Brown. It’s a must that Denver keep everything in front of them, so expect a heavy dose of zone coverage.

The health of the Broncos safeties

Darian Stewart and T.J. Ward have been lights out this season. They defend both the pass and run very well and have stood out on a defense loaded with stars. The problem is the two have been dealing with nagging injuries for some-odd weeks now.

Stewart hobbled off the field in the AFC Championship Game due a knee injury, while Ward came away with a banged up ankle. With thin depth at the safety position, the Broncos will need Stewart and Ward healthy and ready to go versus the Panthers high-octane offense