Broncos and Panthers in another Super Bowl 50 rematch
The Denver Broncos and Carolina Panthers meet once again in a Super Bowl 50-esque clash.
In 2015 in Santa Clara, Super Bowl 50 commenced with the Denver Broncos and Peyton Manning facing off against Cam Newton and the Carolina Panthers. When the gold confetti rained down, it was the decorated Manning who walked away with the glory and NFL retirement papers.
The following season, Graham Gano’s missed kick spoiled a revenge story in the season opener. This season, they meet once again with both teams experiencing similar fates and rebuilt rosters. Carolina is no longer led by Newton, who is now a member of the New England Patriots. Denver, on the other hand, has the young man from Missouri in Drew Lock.
Both sides also share a different look defensively as each side no longer has their defensive captains from the big game anchoring the calls. Von Miller is out for the season in Denver while Luke Kuechly has hung up his cape and cleats in Charlotte. Additionally, the same is said for the coaches as Ron Rivera leads Washington and Gary Kubiak is running the offense in Minnesota.
Even with no Super Bowl, the Broncos and Panthers both need a win.
Given the state of affairs, there are evaluations that will be taken from this game, specifically for the signal-callers. In his career in Denver under Vic Fangio, Lock has struggled at times and despite a young crop of talented playmakers, the former Tiger has had moments where the fans in the Mile High City were left scratching their heads.
In Charlotte, the Panthers under head coach Matt Rhule have been entrusted with Teddy Bridgewater as their starter. While the former Cardinal has shown promise, a number of moments resulted in interceptions and signs that the franchise is headed for a rebuild.
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Both quarterbacks have been given a season to prove themselves and there was good and there was bad. Given the number of quarterback prospects that are expected to be on the board, it might be possible that there will be a new starting face for each team come next season. For now, they face off with pride on the line.