C.J. Anderson hopes Broncos' win boosts hometown

SANTA CLARA, Calif. – About 15 miles south of the world-famous vineyards of Napa, a whole different world awaits those who enter C.J. Anderson’s hometown of Vallejo.

In recent years, the city has suffered through bankruptcy and pangs of violence, including again on Saturday when a man was shot dead in a confrontation near a restaurant.

“My city is going through some tough times right now,” said Anderson, a running back for the Denver Broncos.

But now it has reason to celebrate. Anderson, a third-year pro out of the University of California, rushed for 90 yards and one touchdown on 23 carries to help lift the Broncos to a 24-10 victory in the Super Bowl against the Carolina Panthers.  It was a happy Bay Area homecoming for Anderson, who mentioned his hometown after the game.

He said the victory would be “huge” for Vallejo.

NFL DRAFT HUB: Latest NFL Draft mock drafts, news, live picks, grades and analysis.

“It’s just good to have a positive vibe out of the city,” Anderson said. “There’s a lot of kids that watched the game today. They go, 'Hey mommy, I can do that too.' It just feels good.”

Vallejo “is going crazy right now,” he said. “I’m lost for words. I know they’re lost for words. I can’t wait to get home.”

PHOTOS: Halftime show at Super Bowl 50