Watch CBS News

Record-Breaking Punt Return Helps Broncos Extend Lead

SANTA CLARA, Calif. (CBSNewYork) -- A journeyman kick returner journeyed into the Super Bowl record book Sunday night.

With 9:29 left in the second quarter of Super Bowl 50 on Sunday, the Denver Broncos' Jordan Norwood fielded a punt and raced 61 yards down the right sideline before finally being stopped at the Carolina Panthers' 14-yard line.

MORE: Watch Super Bowl 50 Live | Live Blog | Photos

It was the longest punt return in Super Bowl history, breaking the previous mark of 45 yards set by the 49ers' John Taylor against Cincinnati in Super Bowl XXIII in January 1989.

The return by Norwood, who has spent time with four teams since entering the league in 2009, set up a 33-yard Brandon McManus field goal that extended the Broncos' lead to 13-7.

Denver might have cashed in on the return with a touchdown, but C.J. Anderson's 2-yard run on 4th-and-1 from the 5 was nullified by a holding penalty, forcing Broncos coach Gary Kubiak to send out McManus.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.