Super Bowl 50: Broncos vs. Panthers Open Thread

Today is the day.  We're getting close to kickoff of Super Bowl 50, featuring the AFC Champion Denver Broncos and the NFC Champion Carolina Panthers.

Of course, Colts fans have a big rooting interest in the game even though their team didn't make it, as the greatest player in franchise history will be looking for his second Super Bowl title.  Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning has had a very rough season, but Denver has won two playoff games behind a dominating defense and a turnover-free Manning.  Now, Manning will be playing in his fourth Super Bowl and, in what is perhaps his last ever NFL game, will be looking to add another Super Bowl ring to his resume.

It won't be easy, however, as the league's MVP this year in Cam Newton leads the top-ranked offense against Denver's top-ranked defense.  Newton has been absolutely tremendous this year, presenting perhaps the toughest test yet for the Broncos' vaunted defense.

As much as I want the Broncos Peyton Manning to win, I'm picking the Panthers in this one, 28-24.  I think it will be a closer game and I think the Broncos defense will be able to keep them in the game, but I just think Cam Newton will find a way to make enough plays to win it (and I'm picking Newton as the MVP, by the way).  Of course, I also picked the Patriots to beat the Broncos in the AFC Championship game, so hopefully I'm wrong about this game too.

Either way, it should be a good game and a big event as it's the 50th Super Bowl.  Here's your open thread to discuss the game, but first, here's some need-to-know information:

When: Sunday, Feb. 7, 6:35 p.m. ET

Where: Levi's Stadium, Santa Clara, Calif.

TV: CBS

Announcers: Jim Nantz, Phil Simms, Tracy Wolfson

Online: CBS Sports

SB Nation team sites: Mile High Report | Cat Scratch Reader