Broncos’ Stidham Prepares for AFC Championship Challenge

This Sunday, Broncos quarterback Jarrett Stidham finds himself in a high-pressure situation in the AFC Championship against the Patriots. Interestingly, he won’t be the first backup quarterback to step up in such a crucial moment.

Jeff Hostetler, the former Giants quarterback known for stepping in for the injured Phil Simms during the 1990 season and leading his team to a Super Bowl victory, shared some insights with Stidham as he gets ready for this pivotal game of his career.

“My advice is to block out the noise,” Hostetler remarked. It’s understandable, though, with the media buzzing around, asking all sorts of questions. He recalled being told, “This coach doesn’t think you can make it,” and he remembers comments from John Madden questioning his capability as well.

“It’s important not to make the game feel bigger than it is,” Hostetler advised further. He noted that while this playoff game is indeed significant—a chance to reach the Super Bowl—it’s essential for Stidham to focus on his role and enjoy the experience.

Stidham, who started four games in the NFL since being drafted by the Patriots in 2019, has been elevated to the top spot for the Broncos following a serious ankle injury that took out starter Bo Nix during last week’s thrilling 33-30 overtime win against the Bills.

Reflecting on his own experience, Hostetler mentioned he faced skepticism when he took over for Simms, saying that virtually no one outside the locker room believed he could succeed.

“Honestly, I can probably count on one hand the number of people who thought I could do it, and they were all family,” Hostetler admitted.

Hostetler spent several seasons as a backup with the Giants before he became a starter with the Raiders in 1993, making the Pro Bowl the following year.

In similar circumstances, Nick Foles, who took over for Tom Brady and led the Eagles to a Super Bowl win against the Patriots in 2018, also chimed in. Foles offered encouragement, noting that the Patriots have had difficulty against backup quarterbacks in championship games.

The Broncos are set to clash with New England on Sunday at 3 p.m. ET, and the stakes couldn’t be higher for Stidham.