Sitting with friends at the lunch table this week, there have been numerous discussions about this Sunday’s Bowl.  Trying to pick this year’s winner is tough. Most see the season that the Carolina Panthers are having and automatically assume that this game will be an easy win, but if the Broncos defense plays even close to the level that it showed at in their game vs. the defending champion Patriots, we could have a tight game on our hands.

On paper Carolina may look to be the better team, as defensively they feature stars such as Luke Kechley, Thomas Davis, and Josh Norman, while offensively they are led by quarterback Cam Newton, running back Jonathan Stewart, tackle/movie star Micheal Oher, and tight end Greg Olsen. There’s no doubt they are an exciting team, boasting the most efficient offense in football and playing with a certain swagger that captivates the younger generation of fans.

But that brings me to my next point: if you’re an older fan who has watched Denver quarterback Peyton Manning throughout his career, how could you not want him to win? This may be Manning’s final game, as it has been reported he told Bill Bellichek after last week’s victory over the Patriots. Manning has a real chance of winning this game, but it won’t be all because of him.  He will need help from his supporting cast, led by Aqib Talib, Von Miller, and Demarcus Ware.

If you’re a Bears fan, it is easy to find former players to root for on the Panther’s roster.  Head Coach  Ron Riviera, was the Bears’ defensive coordinator when they last made an appearance in the Super Bowl in 2006. Charles Tillman is not active for this game (but will still get a ring if Carolina pulls it out), while Greg Olsen, who was traded away, will have to pull a large load if his team wants to win the Super Bowl. Jared Allen, another former Bear, is said to be recovered from an injury and also will have a role in this Sunday’s game.

Then there is  Manning.  I personally still hold a small grudge since he defeated my beloved Chicago Bears in the Super Bowl in 2006. That loss hurt, and the Bears have never been quite the same since that magical season.

Overall, I feel that the Panthers will prevail over the Broncos in this Sunday’s game. While the two stout defenses may make for a tight game, I don’t see the Broncos being able to slow down Cam Newton with just their front 4, and if they need to bring extra rushers that will open the field up for Newton and the Panthers.

Also, I don’t see the Broncos making a comeback if they get down during the game. Manning does not seem to have the arm strength to air it out and get the ball down field. Although this game may be Manning’s last, I don’t see him pulling out the victory.

If Manning was to lose this game, his record would be dropped to 1-3 in the Super Bowl, which would hurt his reputation, even though regular season Manning puts up all-time great numbers.

My prediction:  Panthers 24, Broncos 21