Von Miller prepared for Cam Newton threat in Super Bowl 50
Tuesday 2 February 2016 12:13, UK
Von Miller says Denver Broncos defensive unity can help them stop Carolina quarterback Cam Newton in Super Bowl 50.
Preparations are well underway for Sunday's San Francisco showpiece and while Peyton Manning's battle with Newton has dominated much of the build-up, there is an equal focus on what is likely to come down to a simple offense v defense battle.
The Broncos smothered New England's Tom Brady in the AFC Championship game and the NFL's top-rated defense will have to be at it again to stop Newton.
Linebacker Miller is well aware of the threat he and his teammates face as they target victory and knows stopping Newton is key to any hopes of victory.
"Cam is a great player. Super tough player to take down," he said at media day.
"It is tough. He is athletic, 6'6'', 270 pounds, 4.4 (40-yard dash). He is tough. From a physical standpoint, he is smart, strong and athletic. You put all of those together and it is extremely tough to take him down.
"He controls that whole offense. As Cam goes, their offense goes. We can only stick to our game plan, play the same type of defense we have been playing all year. If we can do that we will be alright.
Broncos' defense has won praise of the course of the season but Miller, who sacked Brady 2.5 times in the Broncos victory over the Patriots, insists simple teamwork has been the key.
"We just have to play our game," he added.
"I think what makes this defense so close is that we spend a lot of time together. It is like a college atmosphere in our locker room. It is not a seven in the morning to 5pm type of environment. We spend a lot of time with each other. I think that is the glue that makes this team go.
"There really isn't a magic call or magic play. We just have to go out there and want it more than they want it."
Miller's thoughts were echoed by outside linebacker DeMarcus Ware, who pinpoints Newton as key to the Panthers stunning season
"They're an awesome team. That's why they're here in the Super Bowl right now," said Ware.
"17-1, they've only lost one game. The quarterback they have is one of one. You can't find a quarterback that can sit back in the pocket and throw the ball but also can run just like a running back. (They) have a lot of trick plays, a lot of other great players on their team, especially their defense too.
"I am always predicated on being the best defense. Their defense is good also, so they are good all the way around. You have to prepare well for that team."
"I think the defense is always up for the challenge. Cam (Newton) is a dynamic guy where he runs the ball really well. He keeps the chains moving and if there is nobody open, he can run very, very effectively. You can't change how we play. We have to do what we do and do what we've been doing effectively."
Live NFL: Super Bowl 50
