Super Bowl 2016: Panthers vs. Broncos Game Odds, Final Score Predictions

The Carolina Panthers have been the most dominant team in the NFL this season, but the Denver Broncos still stand in their way of winning the 2016 Super Bowl.

With a 15-1 record during the regular season and two impressive showings in the playoffs, Carolina has become the favorite to raise the Lombardi Trophy. Cam Newton has been one of the best quarterbacks in football this season, and the squad has playmakers to help him out on both sides of the ball.

Although Denver hasn't been quite as consistent, its defense is still elite and could create some problems for Newton. Adding in a quarterback who is arguably one of the best in the history of the sport in Peyton Manning and the underdog still has a great chance of pulling off an upset.

Both sides have a lot going for them in this game to create a fun battle, although those looking to bet on the game need a bit more help in picking a side. Here is what you need to know from a gambling perspective.

Super Bowl Betting Odds (via Odds Shark)

Spread: Panthers -5.5

Over-Under: 45

Money Line: Panthers (-220), Broncos (+180)

Prediction

The Panthers have probably the most dynamic player on the field in this game in Newton. The quarterback has beaten teams through the air and on the ground this year and has been especially impressive down the stretch. In his last 10 games including the playoffs, he has 24 passing touchdowns and seven rushing touchdowns to go with just two interceptions.

He is incredibly difficult to prepare for and even tougher to stop on the field.

Carolina has an outstanding defense that can keep Denver in check to at least keep the score close. If this game comes down to a few plays, as it should with two great teams, Newton could be the difference as he leads his team to a title.

Picking against the spread, however, is a different story. With a relatively large spread of 5.5 points, the Broncos certainly have a chance to keep it close enough to cover.

Manning might get most of the attention due to his history but this team is led by its defense. Denver allowed the fewest total yards in the NFL this season, and it won't be easy for the Panthers to move the ball in this one.

While Carolina's ability to run has helped them all year long, Broncos linebacker Danny Trevathan isn't scared, per Brian Costello of the New York Post:

"

We take a lot of pride in it. A lot of people said they were going to run this on us or run that on us. The whole year this defense has stepped up to the plate. We’re not just one of the best passing defenses, but rushing defenses. They’re one of the best rushing offenses. It’s going to be a great challenge, but I’m always up for a challenge.

"

Denver's front-seven will close any holes Jonathan Stewart is used to seeing while Newton will be chased by athletic linebackers like Von Miller and DeMarcus Ware. With Chris Harris and Aqib Talib covering ground in the secondary, there won't be many chances for big plays.

Another interesting factor is while more than two-thirds of the public is betting on Carolina, per Sports Insights, the favorites haven't done too well in recent Super Bowls. Pro Football Talk breaks down the recent history:

This doesn't guarantee success for the Broncos, but it does force you to remember the confidence people had on other favorites that was ultimately misguided.

The Broncos will likely struggle offensively in this one against an aggressive Panthers defense that led the NFL in takeaways. They will press the receivers and force Manning to beat them over the top, something he no longer has the ability to do. Even in a loss, though, the Broncos should be able to keep the score close.

With both defenses also playing to their strengths, you can expect a relatively low-scoring battle to stay slightly under the total.

Carolina can become one of the best teams in NFL history with an 18-1 record, but don't bet on them to cover the spread.

Predicted Score: Panthers 24, Broncos 20

Follow Rob Goldberg on Twitter for year-round sports analysis.