Super Bowl 50: As they say, D wins championships

When things are going well, you don't want the game to end.

That's the way I feel about the NFL postseason.

It's been a hot postseason for me, going 7-3 against the spread, which is why Super Bowl 50 being the last game stinks on so many levels.

Since it is the last game, I will make two picks here, both against the spread and on the over/under pick.

As an offensive guy, it pains me to say this, but I am rolling with the defense. I think the Denver Broncos might be one of those special defenses for this era, loaded with pass rushers and cover players -- both of which are necessities with the way the game is played.

I know Carolina led the NFL in scoring, but the Broncos will do their thing, which means play a lot of man coverage and put pressure on Cam Newton. When he got behind the sticks and was put in second-and-long and third-and-long situations in the loss to the Falcons, he had problems. That will be the case here.

Broncos pass rushers Von Miller and DeMarcus Ware will get after him all day. There will be two turnovers by the Panthers that will lead to points.

On offense, the Broncos won't be explosive, but they will be patient. Peyton Manning is great at carving up a zone with his mind when given time. And even though he isn't the same passer he once was, he will get it done here with short throws.

Keep an eye on Ronnie Hillman for Denver. The Broncos will use him a bunch in the passing game when Carolina drops out in zone coverage. He might get 6-8 catches with a touchdown.

This is the Broncos game. That defense will slow Newton and the Panthers don't have the great edge rushers that great teams need in big games.

Denver does. That will be the difference.

The Picks: Broncos (+5.5) and Under 44.5

PS: You won't need the points.