The Denver Broncos took a major hit when head coach Sean Payton confirmed that rookie quarterback Bo Nix is out for the season with a broken bone in his foot, suffered in the game against the Buffalo Bills. For many, that injury felt like the final blow to Denver’s Super Bowl aspirations. After all, losing your starting quarterback just as the playoff intensity ramps up is never ideal - especially when the next opponent is the New England Patriots and their battle-tested, top-tier defense.
But let’s pump the brakes on writing Denver off just yet.
There’s a path forward here, even if it’s narrow. It starts with two things: a defense that’s been among the league’s most consistent units, and the undeniable edge that comes with playing at altitude in the hostile environment of Mile High Stadium.
That’s not just lip service - it matters. The Broncos’ defense has been the backbone of this team all season, and now more than ever, they’ll be asked to carry the load. Against a Patriots offense that, while efficient, isn’t known for explosive scoring, Denver’s defense has a real shot to keep this game within reach.
And then there’s Jarrett Stidham.
No, he’s not Bo Nix. But he doesn’t need to be.
Stidham isn’t being asked to light up the scoreboard - he just needs to manage the game, protect the football, and make a handful of timely throws. With the way Denver’s defense is playing and the potential for a grinding, clock-controlling run game, 17 points might be enough to get the job done.
That’s a realistic ask from a quarterback who’s been in the system and knows what’s expected of him.
The possible return of J.K. Dobbins - even in a limited role - could be a key factor here.
If Payton leans into the run game, controlling tempo and keeping the Patriots’ offense off the field, it plays right into Denver’s hands. A ball-control approach, paired with a defense that can force mistakes, is exactly how upsets are made in January.
Is it a long shot? Sure. But this is the NFL in the postseason - long shots are kind of the point.
The Patriots are the favorites, and for good reason. But don’t be so quick to pencil them into Super Bowl LX in Santa Clara. The Broncos still have fight left in them, and with the right game plan, a little Mile High magic, and a defense that shows up like it has all year, they’ve got more than just a puncher’s chance.