Manning regains his timing ahead of the big game

Denver Broncos Offense SB50 Betting Preview

Written by on January 27, 2016

Okay, so Peyton Manning had a really dismal 1 TD to 8 INT ratio when playing at home during the regular season. His overall regular season numbers—9 TDS with 17 INTs—weren’t any better. But then, that isn’t everything you need to know about Denver’s offense, at least if were are to consider what the Gary Kubiak-led attack has done in its two playoff games, leading to two crucial victories over two stellar offense-oriented opponents. Obviously, there is still a dire need for Denver’s offense to find better rhythm if it is to dispatch the Carolina Panthers and their blistering offense, but going by what we’ve seen from the Broncos in the last two games (as is detailed below), there are sufficient reasons to believe that Denver’s attack will do just fine. As we come closer to game day, you can click here and check the current NFL betting lines.  
 

Denver’s Offense is a Great SB Betting Pick, But Not Perfect

Just to be clear, I am not saying that a Denver’s offense that is averaging 22.11 PPG scoring in its 18 games this season (and 23.33 PPG scoring in its last 3 games) will be scoring big to match up to Carolina’s fluid attack that is averaging 32.22 PPG scoring in its 18 games (and an astounding 39.33 PPG scoring in its last three). In fact, it would be a miracle if the Broncos put up anywhere near 30 points on the Panthers, given that this is a Denver team that has scored just 30 points twice all season (including the playoffs). Still, 13 of Denver’s 18 games this season were decided by seven points or less, showing just how good the Broncos (14-4 SU) are good managers of the game, something that has bailed them out repeatedly and seen them make it all the way to the Super Bowl. Moreover, Denver’s starting QB Manning—a true game manager that has led his team to two wins in his last three games without throwing a touchdown pass—is coming off a morale-boosting two-touchdown performance against the Patriots. In addition, Manning and the Broncos committed just one turnover against the Pats—on an incomplete pass that was successfully challenged by New England as a backwards pass. Apart from that instance, Manning and his offense showed a lot discipline. Matter of fact, the 39-year-old QB has not thrown an interception in the three games he has played since returning from injury. This is a big boost to the team, considering how Manning was incessantly troubled by miscues prior to his injury. So, although the Panthers defense is a different animal compared to the inferior versions of defense the Broncos have faced against the Steelers and Pats in the playoffs, it wouldn’t be far-fetched to expect The Sheriff and his attacking unit to figure strongly.  

Support from a Talented Running Game you can Bet on

Whether it has been out of necessity or simply based on a sheer plan from Coach Kubiak is anyone’s guess, but the bottom line is that the Broncos have been orchestrating a lot of running plays in their games this season. Despite starting the regular season slow with some abhorring numbers, the Broncos have importantly improved in their running ability, entering the Super Bowl averaging a healthy 107.00 YPG rushing. Running backs C.J. Anderson and Ronnie Hillman have been the biggest components of this running game, and if they can bring their A-game to the Super Bowl against Carolina’s rushing defense (which is allowing 86.28 YPG; the Broncos will not only control the clock, but Manning and his offense could witness better efficiency and more production in terms of scores.

 Final Remarks Before Betting on Super Bowl 50

Given the all-roundedness of the Panthers, the margin for error will be extremely thin for the Broncos. Essentially, this means Denver’s offense (both the running and passing units) will need to a strong start to the game (as was the case against New England) to avoid falling behind big to the Panthers, who have showcased their stellar ability to sprint off the blocks with scores of their own. Even more importantly, Denver will need to sustain its attacking momentum throughout the game, rather than cliffing off as the game progresses. Last but not least, Denver’s offense will need tons of support from its defense. Owing to Denver’s limited ability of lighting up the scoreboard, the defense must find a way of stopping the dynamic Newton-led offense. It is only through such a multifaceted approach that Denver’s imperfect offense can have a perfect day at the Super Bowl 50 game. It won’t be easy, but it’s definitely possible.