Will History Repeat in Next Week’s AFC Title Game?
Nick Foles, the former Eagles quarterback, offered an uplifting message to Broncos fans on Sunday. With their starting QB, Bo Nix, sidelined due to a season-ending ankle injury, Foles aimed to boost morale as Denver gears up for the playoffs.
Now that Jarrett Stidham is at the helm, and with players like Drake Maye visiting Denver, Foles shared a timely reminder about New England’s tough history with backup quarterbacks in high-stakes games.
Foles reached out to the Broncos and their supporters, saying, “I know it’s been an emotional 24 hours. My thoughts are with Beau and the team, and I’m praying for a strong recovery.” He also pointed out, “The positive thing against the Patriots is they struggle against backup QBs in a championship-style game.”
Back in February 2018, Foles led Philadelphia to its first Super Bowl win against Tom Brady and the Patriots after stepping in for an injured Carson Wentz. His performance was stellar, throwing for 373 yards, three touchdowns, and earning MVP honors in the 41-33 victory.
The Broncos are now looking to Stidham to guide them to their first Super Bowl appearance since the 2015 season. Nix had been instrumental in helping Denver snag the top seed in the AFC, throwing for 279 yards, three touchdowns, and an interception in a thrilling overtime win against the Bills. Tragically, his celebration was cut short by an ankle fracture suffered during the game.
Head coach Sean Payton praised Nix, noting, “He’s a tough player… You’re the second quarterback to lead a team to the championship game as a sophomore, behind [Patrick] Mahomes.” He also acknowledged the team’s struggles with injuries and emphasized they must rise to the challenge ahead.
As Denver prepares to host New England next week, it’s noteworthy that the Patriots are making their first appearance in the AFC Championship game in seven years, having defeated the Texans 28-16 recently. For Stidham, this upcoming challenge will mark his first playoff start in just four career NFL games.
