5 can't-miss plays from the Broncos' SB50 rematch

It was the first Super Bowl rematch in modern history, and it was epic. The Broncos came away with the victory over the Carolina Panthers -- a first for Trevor Siemian, who until Thursday was an untested signal caller.

The game didn't come without pitfalls for the Broncos, who stumbled against the Panthers at times, but strong defensive plays allowed for the offense to stand on its own feet, scoring three touchdowns against a testy Panthers team. 

While securing the victory, the Broncos made a host of replay-worthy plays, but these are the top five plays fans just can't miss.

1.) Demaryius Thomas started the night out right. Indeed, DT needed help from Siemian, but his athletic plays allowed the Broncos to start off on a good foot. 

Just throw it in the general vicinity...@DemaryiusT WILL make the grab. Wow. #Kickoff2016 #Broncos https://t.co/7CnNOSOvxK

— NFL (@NFL) September 9, 2016

2.) Andy Janovich, a rookie fullback, scored a touchdown while juking a tackle on his very first carry in the National Football League. 

Just give it to the FULLBACK!
He's gone!

Andy Janovich's 1st NFL carry?
27-yard TD run! #Kickoff2016 #Broncos https://t.co/pDPOV7uVMp

— NFL (@NFL) September 9, 2016

3.) Cam Newton, although he faced off against a top-tier defense, played like a top-tier quarterback. To ignore his successes would be unfairly disparaging to the Panthers. He used his arm and his legs to put up points against the Broncos. 

SUPERCAM doing SUPERCAM things...

Unstoppable. 6 points. #Kickoff2016 #KeepPounding https://t.co/1LwY1Jk45S

— NFL (@NFL) September 9, 2016

4.) But the pro quarterback was roughhoused by the Broncos -- by both DeMarcus Ware and Von Miller. Critical sacks may have saved the game for Denver. 

Check how quickly @demarcusware gets around the edge for the sack... #Kickoff2016 #Broncos https://t.co/JtPiPxVfcA

— NFL (@NFL) September 9, 2016

5.) In the end, defensive plays like this allowed the Broncos to score key points. nearly secured the game for the Broncos, although they came up short. 

Cam's pass is TIPPED.
And PICKED by @ChrisHarrisJr.@Broncos ball DEEP in @Panthers territory. #Kickoff2016. https://t.co/sxdIlJKnje

— NFL (@NFL) September 9, 2016

The game ended 21 to 20, as close a contest as it can get between two fierce competitors. The Broncos entered the game underdogs, but arose as victors.