The Denver Broncos finished a 14-3 regular season, earning the AFC’s No. 1 seed. In the divisional round, they defeated the Buffalo Bills in a close game. The victory set the stage for a potential Super Bowl run.
At a Glance
- Broncos finished a 14-3 regular season.
- Bo Nix broke his ankle after the divisional win.
- Jarrett Stidham will start the AFC Championship Game.
The Playoff Shock
However, just before the game concluded, quarterback Bo Nix suffered a broken ankle. The injury occurred during a play that left the crowd stunned. Nix’s season was over, and the team faced an immediate crisis.
The Broncos’ coaching staff had to act quickly to identify a replacement. The team’s depth chart placed Jarrett Stidham, a rookie from the 2019 draft, as the next option. Stidham had spent time with the Patriots, Raiders, and now the Broncos.
He was ready to step into the spotlight.
Stidham’s readiness is unusual for a first playoff start. He had only 20 games across six seasons, and his most notable outing came in 2022 against the 49ers, where he threw 365 yards and three touchdowns. That performance showcased his potential under pressure.
Who Is Jarrett Stidham?
Stidham is a 6-foot-3 quarterback who joined the Broncos in 2023. He was born on August 8, 1996, in Corbin, Kentucky. His college career began at Baylor in 2015, followed by a transfer to Auburn for 2017 and 2018.
After a year off in 2016, Stidham was drafted 133rd overall in the fourth round of the 2019 NFL Draft. He spent two seasons with the Patriots before moving to the Raiders in 2022. The Raiders released him after an injury, and the Broncos signed him in 2023.
Stidham’s career statistics include 117 completions on 197 attempts, a 59.4 percent completion rate, and 1,422 passing yards. He has thrown eight touchdowns and eight interceptions over his career in 20 games. His best single-game effort was 365 yards, three touchdowns, and two interceptions.
Despite limited playing time, Stidham has shown flashes of leadership and poise. He has been praised for his work ethic and ability to read defenses. His experience as a backup has prepared him for high-pressure situations.
Broncos QB Depth Chart
With Nix out, the Broncos’ depth chart now places Stidham as the starting quarterback. Sam Ehlinger, 27, serves as the emergency third quarterback. The team added 29-year-old Ben DiNucci to the practice squad for depth.
The coaching staff has emphasized continuity and familiarity in the offense. Stidham has been practicing with the offensive line and receivers for months. The team hopes his familiarity with the playbook will ease the transition.
The Broncos’ defense remains a key component of their success. Led by a Super Bowl-winning head coach, the defense has been a cornerstone of the team’s performance. The defensive unit will play a critical role in the upcoming championship game.
Other News
Patrick Surtain II, a cornerback for the Broncos, has launched a foundation to provide educational resources to middle and high school students. Inspired by his father, who played 11 seasons in the NFL, Surtain’s foundation aims to help students succeed academically. The initiative reflects the team’s commitment to community outreach.
The Broncos’ season has been described as a 14-3 dream regular season, but the playoff injury has changed the narrative. The team now faces uncertainty with a rookie quarterback in the AFC Championship Game. Fans and analysts are watching closely to see how the team adapts.
Stidham’s performance could set a new precedent for rookie quarterbacks stepping into playoff action. If he can maintain the team’s offensive momentum, the Broncos may still secure a Super Bowl berth. The outcome will be decided on Sunday.
Additional Details
During the divisional win, the Broncos’ offense executed 34 pass attempts, completing 20 of them. The team’s rushing attack added 120 yards on 25 carries. The balanced offense kept the Bills in check throughout the game.
The injury occurred on a play where Nix was hit after a pass attempt. The impact fractured his ankle, forcing him out of the game. The team’s medical staff confirmed the injury before the final minutes.
Nix’s last play of the season was a 12-yard touchdown pass to a receiver. The touchdown secured the win for the Broncos. It also highlighted Nix’s contribution to the team’s success.
Stidham’s first career start came in a 2022 game against the San Francisco 49ers. In that game, he completed 23 of 34 passes for 365 yards. He also threw three touchdowns and two interceptions.
The Broncos’ defense recorded 4 sacks and forced 2 turnovers in the divisional game. Their defensive line was praised for its pressure on the Bills’ quarterback. The secondary also made key plays to preserve the lead.
The coaching staff has been transparent about Stidham’s readiness. They emphasized that he has been practicing with the playbook and has shown confidence. They also noted his ability to read defensive schemes.
The AFC Championship Game will be played at a neutral site, adding another layer of challenge for the Broncos. The team must adjust to a new environment and a different crowd. The coaching staff is preparing the players for the change in conditions.
Stidham’s performance in the upcoming game could influence how teams evaluate rookie quarterbacks in the future. If he can maintain the offensive production, scouts may reassess the value of young talent. The Broncos’ success could set a new benchmark.
The Broncos’ offensive coordinator has been working closely with Stidham to refine the passing game. They have focused on timing routes and quick reads. The goal is to keep the offense efficient and unpredictable.
The defensive coordinator praised the team’s resilience after the injury. He highlighted the defense’s ability to step up in adversity. The defensive unit remains a key factor in the team’s playoff push.
The team’s front office is also monitoring the health of key players for the championship. They are ensuring that the roster remains healthy and ready. The front office’s decisions will impact the team’s chances.
As the season’s climax approaches, the Broncos face a unique challenge with a rookie quarterback in the spotlight. The team’s success will depend on collective effort and adaptability. Fans will be eager to see how the Broncos navigate this unprecedented situation.
