The hype has begun.  This year’s Super Bowl pits the Carolina Panthers against the Denver Broncos and will take place at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California.  Most people are predicting the Panthers will defeat the Broncos, citing the Panther’s performance against the other top defenses in the league and the Bronco’s offensive struggles.  As usual, much of the hype surrounding the Super Bowl is focused on the quarterbacks, Peyton Manning and Cam Newton.  On paper, Newton shows up as far superior, at least for this year.  While both QBs have the same pass completion percentage (59.8%) Newton dominates the rest of the stat line with 35 touchdowns compared to Manning’s 9, and Newton’s 3,837 yards overpowering Manning’s 2,249.  However, Manning’s supporters are quick to point out that Manning played in a mere 12 games compared to Newton’s 18, due to a foot injury and subsequent rehab.  Still, any knowledgeable football fan will passionately explain that a team is much more than just a quarterback.  The Panthers win this category as well with 10 players selected to this year’s Pro Bowl compared to the Broncos 4 players.  

Still, Broncos fans shouldn’t lose hope.  While they may be projected to lose “the big game”, anything could happen, we’ll just have to wait and see.  Who knows, maybe all of us yelling at our TVs could have some effect.