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Bo Nix Injured; Stidham Leads Broncos into AFC Championship

1/25/2026

24 2 Full Breakdown

Summary

Nix Injured, Stidham Steps Up

Bo Nix suffered a fractured ankle during an overtime playoff win against the Buffalo Bills, ending his season.
Jarrett Stidham will start in the AFC Championship Game against the New England Patriots.
Stidham faces the biggest home underdog in AFC Championship history.
Sean Payton, the Broncos head coach, has confidence in Stidham, who has limited starting experience but has shown promise.
The game is set for Sunday.

Summary

Stidham Takes Charge

Jarrett Stidham will start in the AFC Championship Game against the New England Patriots.
The move mirrors Jeff Hostetler, the former Giants quarterback, whose waiting for an opportunity led to a Super Bowl win.
Stidham was drafted by the Patriots in 2019.
Tom Brady, the longtime Patriots quarterback, mentored Stidham during his rookie year.

History

Historical Context

The New York Giants' victory in Super Bowl XXV in 1991, led by backup quarterback Jeff Hostetler, exemplified the unpredictability of NFL playoffs. Hostetler stepped in after Phil Simms' injury, securing a narrow 20-19 win over the Buffalo Bills. This historical moment parallels Jarrett Stidham's upcoming start in the AFC Championship, highlighting the potential for underdog success in the league's competitive landscape.

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Nix Injured, Stidham Steps Up

Bo Nix suffered a fractured ankle during an overtime playoff win against the Buffalo Bills, ending his season.
Jarrett Stidham will start in the AFC Championship Game against the New England Patriots.
Stidham faces the biggest home underdog in AFC Championship history.
Sean Payton, the Broncos head coach, has confidence in Stidham, who has limited starting experience but has shown promise.
The game is set for Sunday.

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