Bo Nix out; Jarrett Stidham to start AFC Championship vs. Patriots

Cbssports reports Broncos coach Sean Payton announced Bo Nix broke a bone in his ankle and will miss the rest of the season, leaving Jarrett Stidham — who has not thrown a pass all season — to start the AFC Championship against the New England Patriots, a change that widens New England's advantage at quarterback with Drake Maye.

The piece notes Denver has built a strong roster around Nix (and now Stidham), while New England transformed a 4-13 team into a 14-3 club under Mike Vrabel and several free-agent additions. The preview awards New England the edge at quarterback, running back, wide receiver and tight end, while Denver is favored up front on the offensive line and along the defensive line, as well as at edge rusher and cornerback; linebacker and safety are graded as pushes and special teams slightly favor Denver.

What remains uncertain is how the quarterback change will play out and whether injured Broncos will return: J.K. Dobbins could return this weekend, and Troy Franklin (hamstring) and Pat Bryant (concussion) suffered injuries last week. The analysis says Denver's line and defensive depth offer hope, but the unexpected start by Stidham is the key unknown heading into the game.

Key Topics

Sports, Afc Championship, Denver Broncos, New England Patriots, Bo Nix, Jarrett Stidham