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SANTA CLARA, Calif. -- Defense wins championships but what Von Miller did on Sunday against the Panthers wasn’t defense, it was domination. And it netted him a Super Bowl MVP award.

Miller, soon to be a free agent, showed up in a big, big way on Sunday, picking up 2.5 sacks, forcing two fumbles and destroying the Panthers offensive line. 

Carolina’s patchwork crew was no match for Miller’s speed, strength and pass-rushing moves and he spent the entire game in Cam Newton’s kitchen.

It was also memorable in that defensive players rarely earn the award, albeit this is the second time since 2014 when Malcolm Smith won it with the Seahawks. 

DeMarcus Ware also had two sacks but it was Miller’s ability to put pressure on Newton that helped the Broncos to win the Super Bowl.

Newton had more pressure on him than any other game this season and was increasingly frustrated by the hits he was taking from the Broncos. 

Miller was the biggest reason why and a very worthy MVP winner.

Miller knocks the ball loose from Newton. (USATSI)