Panthers’ front seven vs. Broncos’ Anderson
In the week leading up to Super Bowl 50, USA TODAY Sports will highlight five matchups that could help decide whether the Carolina Panthers or Denver Broncos prevail. In our second installment, we highlight Broncos running back C.J. Anderson against the Panthers front seven.
The Broncos likely can’t afford to have “The Sheriff ” lead them into a shootout.
Though Peyton Manning hasn’t been held back in his return from a torn plantar fascia, Broncos coach Gary Kubiak has continued to demand a balanced attack from his offense. Facing a ballhawking Panthers defense that ranks first in the NFL with 39 regular-season takeaways, the Broncos will be further enticed to establish their running game early.
Maintaining an evenkeeled attack against the Panthers, however, is a game plan far more easily outlined than executed. The Panthers have outscored opponents 265-121 in the first half this season, which has frequently forced teams to abandon the run and play a more predictable style.
Kubiak, however, has taken the long view over the course of games in remaining committed to the run. Anderson has 239 rushing yards on 46 attempts (5.2 yards per carry) over his last three games for the Broncos. Though he splits carries with Ronnie Hillman, his one-cut style has suited Denver more than Hillman’s laterally oriented running.
The Panthers have allowed 100 rushing yards or more (the Broncos average 107.4 per game) in one of their last 11 games. Nose tackle Star Lotulelei and linebacker Luke Kuechly have made Carolina particularly imposing up the middle, and the two could make it difficult for Anderson to find the seams he seeks.
Teams have chipped away at the big leads the Panthers have compiled, though coming all the way back has been an insurmountable task. How Anderson and Co. fare in the Super Bowl might determine whether the Broncos will face a similar climb.