Jarrett Stidham may not be the starting quarterback for the Denver Broncos, but he achieved a notable distinction over starting QB Bo Nix during the AFC Championship Game against the New England Patriots on Sunday. With Nix sidelined due to a broken right ankle sustained in a previous victory against the Buffalo Bills, Stidham took the reins as the starting quarterback. Reports suggest that Nix will need approximately 12 weeks to recover from his injury.
Having not started a game since the 2023 season, Stidham was given the opportunity to showcase his skills. Broncos head coach Sean Payton allowed Stidham to take risks, including a deep throw early in the game. During Denver”s second drive, Stidham connected with wide receiver Marvin Mims Jr. for a remarkable 52-yard completion on a crucial 3rd-and-10 from their own 41-yard line. According to Next Gen Stats, the ball traveled 41 yards in the air, marking the longest completion by air yards for a Broncos quarterback this season.
This impressive throw set the stage for a six-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Courtland Sutton just two plays later. Stidham”s performance highlighted his capability to make significant plays when given the chance.
While Nix does possess a strong arm, as evidenced by a 67-yard touchdown pass he threw during his rookie season in 2024, he has not matched Stidham”s recent achievement in this area. Over his first two seasons in Denver, Nix has averaged below 7.3 intended air yards per pass attempt, according to Pro Football Reference. Coach Payton has likely opted for a conservative approach to minimize the risk of turnovers, as deep passes can lead to interceptions.
However, it appears that Payton”s decision to allow Stidham to attempt deep throws early in the game was aimed at boosting the backup quarterback”s confidence. “That”s his personality. He”s gonna rip it, you know?” Payton remarked about Stidham earlier in the week. “That”ll be our approach.” Clearly, Payton was committed to giving Stidham the freedom to play aggressively, and the results spoke for themselves.
