Jarrett Stidham will get his first start of the season for the Denver Broncos in the biggest game of the year, in the AFC Championship game against the New England Patriots.
With Bo Nix out with an injury, the Broncos, who will be at home, are going to have to lean on Stidham, who hasn't played a meaningful snap all season.
For most, this makes the Patriots the clear favorites to advance to the Super Bowl, but don't discount the Broncos, being at home and with one of the NFL's best defenses.
As for Stidham, per Babe Laufenberg, he's doing something against the Patriots that only one other NFL quarterback has done.
Stephenville’s own Jarrett Stidham gets the start today for Denver. His first start of the season. Only other QB to make his first start of the year in an AFC or NFC Championship game? Guy by the name of Roger Staubach (1972)
— Babe Laufenberg (@BabeLaufenberg) January 25, 2026
More: Analyst has incredible bold Broncos vs. Patriots prediction
Stidham has chance of a lifetime
Having been Nix's backup, Stidham must have been wondering when he would ever get his chance.
Well, in unfortunate circumstances, he now gets to start in an AFC Championship game with a spot in the Super Bowl on the line.
This is career-making stuff for Stidham, and he has home comforts and one of the best defenses in football behind him.
So, play smart, don't make mistakes, and play the role of bus driver, and who knows, maybe he can help steer Denver to the Super Bowl.
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