byau":12kw5tiz said:
In order:
Broncos
Patriots
Cardinals
Panthers
Broncos: love their defense, like Peyton Manning (old man like me coming back from neck surgery is a great story), hate Elway, but wife's born in Denver and also good friend at work is a Broncos fan
Patriots: call me crazy, I actually like the Patriots. Don't like Patriots fans much, but like the team
Cardinals: I like Fitz, don't like Arians, I kinda like Palmer (another old man trying to do it)
Panthers: I like their D, especially their three linebackers. Really don't like Cam, what's up with destroying other people's property dude? That's a step too far, otherwise I'd like you
As I was watching today's games, I switched my order. Not just because I'm a bandwaggoner either
Broncos and Panthers tied for #1

Patriots #3
Cardinals #4
Basically Panthers moved up and shoved the others down.
For the Seahawks, I would love if the Panthers won. It will make things much more interesting next year for the Seahawks and if/when they make it back to the SB they will have to beat the REAL New Sheriff In Town and I Don't Mean The Cardinals. Plus the storylines of both teams being built the same, powerful defense, high octane offense. I want it to be a rivalry for the ages, and for this to happen, the Panthers need to win.
For the story of sports, I would love if Peyton won. I sports-hate Elway, but you got to admit it's a good story to retire on top like that. And for Peyton to do it, especially after a devestating loss to the Seahawks two years ago and then not making it even to the AFC Championship the next year, it's a great story for sports. And I like what Peyton represents. You can almost see Russell in the same mold: separation is in the preparation and if Peyton can get the offense some scores against that Panthers' D because of his preparation (won't be his athletic skill) then that's a great story
I'm actually excited to watch the game