Jarrett Stidham: The Unsung Hero Behind Denver's AFC Hopes
Jarrett Stidham is taking over for the injured Bo Nix in the AFC Championship game against the Patriots. This move has sparked interesting reactions, especially from former Patriots teammate Devin McCourty.
A Lighthearted Reminiscence
McCourty shared a lighthearted moment with Stidham, reminding him of their time in Foxborough. Stidham, as the scout team quarterback, faced off against the Patriots' starting defense. McCourty even joked about wearing his old number 32 jersey if Stidham needed a familiar target.
Respect for Stidham's Skills
McCourty isn't just joking around. He has serious respect for Stidham's abilities. He describes Stidham as exactly what every team wants in a backup quarterback:
- Smart
- Knows the game inside out
- Well-liked by teammates
This is why Sean Payton brought him back to Denver.
Impressive Practice Performances
Stidham hasn't seen much game time recently, with most of his experience coming in practice and preseason. However, McCourty notes that Stidham has been impressive in practice, even giving the defense a run for their money. This could give Stidham a confidence boost going into the big game.
The Patriots' Unpredictable Defense
The Patriots' defense is known for its unpredictability, mixing up strategies to keep quarterbacks guessing. This could pose a challenge for Stidham, who hasn't faced them at full speed in a while. However, playing at home might give him an edge.
Filling Nix's Shoes
With Nix out, the Broncos will miss his mobility and clutch plays. But McCourty believes Stidham can keep them in the game. While he might not have Nix's flair, he can manage the game and give Denver a chance to win.
