COLUMN: Carolina likely headed to first-time win in Super Bowl 50

DJ Jarrett, Sports reporter

DJFor the 50th time in the history of the NFL, we will end this great season with America’s favorite game: the Super Bowl.

This year’s big game, which is set for Feb. 7, features a matchup of new school vs. old school. Thirty-nine-year-old Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning and 26-year-old Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton will be setting a Super Bowl record with an age difference of 13 years and 48 days. Both Manning and Newton are former No. 1 draft picks, though Newton was drafted 13 years after Manning.

Super Bowl 50 will also be only the second time the No. 1 defense (Broncos) and No. 1 offense (Panthers) have squared off in a Super Bowl game. The last time this happened, the Broncos’ No. 1 offense was trampled by the Seattle Seahawks No. 1 defense — and no doubt, Manning is hoping that history doesn’t repeat itself for the Broncos this year.

But his dreams might be dashed. After all, the Super Bowl hasn’t seen a quarterback with the athleticism of Cam Newton in quite some time, but Manning’s age and experience could counteract that. More than likely, the two will balance out in a close game, with scores staying in the 20s.

PREDICTION: Many students at ROMS believe that the Panthers will win for the first time in the history of the 20-year franchise, and I tend to agree. I’m going to say that the game will be slow-paced, with a final score of 24-20 in favor of the Panthers. I think Newton will throw for around 230 yards and two touchdowns, along with Jonathan Stewart running for a score himself. On the other side of the ball, I’m predicting that Manning throws for more than 300, with three touchdowns passing — but also with an interception or two.

At the end of the game, I think we will see likely MVP Newton and the Panthers delivering Jerry Richardson and the entire Panthers organization their very first Super Bowl win.

IN THE KNOW: SUPER BOWL 50

When is the Super Bowl?

  • Super Bowl 50 is Sunday, Feb. 7.

Who’s playing in the Super Bowl?

  • The Broncos and the Panthers.

Where is the game being played?

  • Super Bowl 50 will be played at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, Calif.

What time does the Super Bowl start?

  • The game kicks off at 5:30 p.m.

How can I watch Super Bowl 50?

  • The Super Bowl will be televised live on CBS. Also, ESPN Deportes will provide a Spanish-language telecast of the game.

Can I watch the game online?

  • Super Bowl 50 will be streamed live on CBSSports.com.

Who will provide the halftime entertainment?

  • CBS announced that Coldplay will headline the halftime show.