Master vs Apprentice: Manning’s Broncos face Newton’s Panthers in Super Bowl 50

The Carolina Panthers, led by star quarterback Cam Newton and a defense that forced seven turnovers, mauled the Arizona Cardinals 49-15 in Charlotte on Sunday to set up a Super Bowl 50 clash against the Denver Broncos. Newton ran for two scores, soaring above defenders at the goal line, and threw for two others to set off a victory party at Bank of America Stadium. Earlier, Denver and veteran quarterback Peyton Manning edged last year’s champion New England Patriots and their signal caller Tom Brady 20-18 for the AFC title. The Panthers will meet the Broncos in San Francisco on February 7.

Oh, wow, playing ‘The Sheriff’.

Cam Newton, on the prospect of facing Manning

Brady almost led the Patriots to a miraculous comeback as he converted two fourth downs to Rob Gronkowski - the second for a touchdown - on the game’s final drive before failing to convert a game-tying two point conversion with seconds remaining. Denver hurried Brady into throwing to Julian Edelman, who was double covered, and Aqib Talib broke up the pass. Manning - at the age of 39 - will be the oldest starting quarterback in NFL history.

To be going to our second Super Bowl in four years is very special and just an awesome effort.

Peyton Manning, who turns 40 in March

Super Bowl