Bo Nix’s season-ending ankle injury hands starting duties to Jarrett Stidham, likely nudging bettors toward the Patriots — expect the Broncos’ moneyline to lengthen and the Patriots’ spread to tighten. However, coach Sean Payton’s confidence and the long list of backups who’ve won titles suggest savvy bettors could find value backing Denver at inflated odds or using smaller live bets to judge Stidham’s command.
Broncos’ Super Bowl Quest Hits a Roadblock: Bo Nix Out, Stidham In
Season-ending injury derails Nix
Bo Nix suffered a broken ankle on Denver’s game-winning drive in the 33-30 overtime win over Buffalo and will undergo season-ending surgery. The Broncos now head into the AFC Championship of the NFL with Jarrett Stidham taking over at quarterback, a development that reshapes the team’s immediate outlook and the matchup dynamics against the New England Patriots.
Sean Payton’s backing and team outlook
Coach Sean Payton publicly endorsed Stidham, pointing to historical examples where teams survived the loss of a starter and still reached — or won — the Super Bowl. Payton emphasized that losing a starter doesn’t automatically end a title run, citing past success stories and suggesting the team will rally around a new leader.
Why this matters for the AFC Championship and bettors
Matchup and market implications
A sudden QB change typically tightens spreads and shifts moneyline expectation in favor of the opponent. Oddsmakers will weigh Stidham’s experience, Denver’s supporting cast and coaching adjustments. Bettors should expect shorter confidence windows early in the game; live and small-stake wagers may offer the best value until Stidham shows game-to-game command.
Backup quarterbacks who won a Super Bowl — precedent and perspective
Historical list and quick context
1. Earl Morrall (Baltimore Colts) — Took over during Super Bowl V after an injury and helped secure the title.
2. Roger Staubach (Dallas Cowboys) — Replaced starter midseason in 1971 and led Dallas to Super Bowl VI.
3. Terry Bradshaw (Pittsburgh Steelers) — Reclaimed the starting job in 1974 and won Super Bowl IX.
4. Jim Plunkett (Oakland Raiders) — Replaced Marc Wilson in 1980 and won Super Bowl XV.
5. Doug Williams (Washington Redskins) — Replaced Jay Schroeder late in 1987 and drove a playoff run to Super Bowl XXII victory.
6. Jeff Hostetler (New York Giants) — Stepped in after Phil Simms’ injury in 1990 and won Super Bowl XXV.
7. Kurt Warner (St. Louis Rams) — Elevated after Trent Green’s preseason injury in 1999 and won Super Bowl XXXIV.
8. Trent Dilfer (Baltimore Ravens) — Took over five weeks into 2000 and won Super Bowl XXXV behind a dominant defense.
9. Tom Brady (New England Patriots) — Replaced Drew Bledsoe in 2001 and started a dynasty beginning with Super Bowl XXXVI.
10. Nick Foles (Philadelphia Eagles) — Returned as a backup in 2017, replaced Carson Wentz in the playoffs and won Super Bowl LII.
What’s next for Denver
Immediate priorities
Denver must install a game plan that leverages Stidham’s strengths while protecting him early. The coaching staff will focus on simplifying reads, emphasizing the run game and maximizing short-yardage passing to sustain drives and limit turnovers.
The path to the Super Bowl
Stidham’s first task is upsetting the Patriots in the AFC Championship. If he performs competently and the Broncos’ defense holds up, Denver can still be a legitimate title contender. The outcome will depend on game management, quick offensive adjustments and how well the team compensates for the loss of its starter.
Joe Burrow Chimes In On Controversial Interception That Sent Broncos To AFC Championship Game
Jarrett Stidham hopes to join this list of backup quarterbacks who stepped up to help their teams win a Super Bowl.
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