The Mighty Also Fall

Well, the game's over, and everything was just as predicted, a game between iron clad defenses. Cam Newton, over-hyped for the entire season, got his comeuppance as he was sacked seven times.  Peyton Manning, ever humble, let his team's defense stop the Panthers onslaught.  An onslaught, it should be noted, that wasn't even present at Superbowl 50.  We're using Arabic numerals rather than Roman this year, presumably because Superbowl L would be confusing to the low information fans.  They can decipher Xs, Vs and Is, but the L might throw them.  Oh, well.  Marketing must be served.

So Peyton Manning gained a couple of firsts.  He's the first NFL quarterback to get 200 wins, including playoffs and regular season.  He's won two Super Bowls, one as QB with the Colts, and the other last night with the Broncos.  And he's the oldest QB to win a Super Bowl. And at 39 years old, if he deciders to retire, he'll be doing so on top.      

Cam Newton, usually upbeat and vivacious, was uncharacteristically morose during the post game interview.  I can understand the intense letdown in losing a championship game, but I thought he'd have more class and breeding in being gracious in defeat.  He's young and not used to loosing, and has his entire career ahead of him, but his pouty walk off was uncalled for. 

Beyonce's half time show seemed to smack of overt political divisiveness.  All black power, all the time, raised fists and all.  The gag reflex continued when Coldplay's front man Chris Martin and Bruno Mars' joined her for the finale, which was a salute to Black Lives Matter..  It was in direct contrast to the patriotic pregame show, with a huge Stars and Stripes, Lady Gaga respectfully and professionally signing the national anthem, and the Navy's Blue Angels flyover.  Point and counterpoint, I guess.  Clever.

I can't wait for next season.