Who Won the 2016 Super Bowl? Full Recap & Stats

By Sarah Miller · January 8, 2028

The Denver Broncos won the 2016 Super Bowl, defeating the Carolina Panthers 24-10 in Super Bowl 50. The game took place on February 7, 2016, at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California. Linebacker Von Miller was named Super Bowl MVP after a dominant performance that included 2.5 sacks and two forced fumbles.

Super Bowl 50: A Defensive Masterclass

Super Bowl 50 marked the 50th anniversary of the NFL's championship game and featured a clash between the league's top offense and top defense. The Carolina Panthers entered the game with a 15-1 regular-season record, led by MVP quarterback Cam Newton. On the other side, the Denver Broncos boasted the league's best defense, anchored by future Hall of Famers DeMarcus Ware and Von Miller.

Key Highlights from the Game

The Broncos' defense set the tone early, pressuring Cam Newton throughout the game.
Von Miller forced a critical fumble late in the second quarter, leading to a touchdown just before halftime.
Cornerback Malik Jackson recorded a sack and defended multiple passes in the end zone.
Carolina managed only one touchdown, failing to capitalize on red-zone opportunities.
Peyton Manning became the first starting quarterback to win multiple Super Bowls with different teams.

Denver Broncos' Path to Victory

The Broncos finished the 2015 regular season with a 12-4 record, securing the AFC's fifth seed. Despite offensive inconsistencies, their defense carried them through the playoffs.

Playoff Journey

Defeated the Pittsburgh Steelers 23-16 in the Divisional Round.
Won 20-18 against the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship Game.
Limited Tom Brady to under 200 passing yards in the conference title game.

Carolina Panthers' Historic Season Falls Short

The Panthers dominated the 2015 season, finishing 15-1 and winning the NFC Championship by defeating the Arizona Cardinals 49-15. Cam Newton threw for over 3,800 yards and rushed for 10 touchdowns during the regular season.

Why the Panthers Lost

Overwhelmed by Denver's relentless pass rush.
Turnovers proved costly, including a key fumble by Newton before halftime.
Inability to sustain drives against a disciplined defensive scheme.
Lack of complementary play from secondary units when needed most.

Statistic	Denver Broncos	Carolina Panthers
Final Score	24	10
Total Yards	315	313
Passing Yards	146	260
Rushing Yards	169	53
Time of Possession	31:08	28:52
Third-Down Efficiency	5/13	4/11
Sacks	7	2
Turnovers	1	4

Table data source:1, 2

The statistical breakdown reveals how Denver’s defense controlled the game despite limited offensive production. The Broncos recorded seven sacks—the most in Super Bowl history at the time—and forced four turnovers. Although Carolina had slightly more total yardage, they gained only 53 rushing yards and failed to convert key third downs under pressure.

Legacy of Super Bowl 50

This victory marked the Broncos' third Super Bowl win in franchise history (previously winning Super Bowls XXXII and XXXIII). It also served as the final game of Peyton Manning’s legendary career, who retired after the season. For the Panthers, it was their second Super Bowl appearance, having lost previously in Super Bowl XXXVIII.

Von Miller’s performance cemented his status among the NFL’s elite defenders. His ability to disrupt Newton’s rhythm was pivotal in shifting momentum. The game is often cited as one of the greatest defensive performances in Super Bowl history.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2016 Super Bowl

Who won Super Bowl 50?

The Denver Broncos defeated the Carolina Panthers 24-10 in Super Bowl 50, held on February 7, 2016.

What was the score of the 2016 Super Bowl?

The final score was Denver Broncos 24, Carolina Panthers 10.

Where was Super Bowl 50 played?

Super Bowl 50 took place at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California, home of the San Francisco 49ers.

Who was named MVP of Super Bowl 50?

Linebacker Von Miller of the Denver Broncos was named Super Bowl MVP after recording 2.5 sacks and forcing two fumbles.

Was Super Bowl 50 Peyton Manning's last game?

Yes, Super Bowl 50 was Peyton Manning’s final NFL game. He retired after winning his second Super Bowl title, becoming the first quarterback to win Super Bowls with two different teams.