Three Strategies for Winning Sunday’s AFC Championship Against the Broncos
The upcoming AFC Championship Game brings the Patriots to Denver to face the Broncos at 3 p.m. ET. This matchup presents a pivotal moment for head coach Mike Vrabel, who aims to lead his team to the Super Bowl after previously falling short with the Titans. The Patriots will face a significant challenge as they prepare to face backup quarterback Jarrett Stidham, following the season-ending injury of starter Bo Nix.
Impact of Stidham’s Inexperience
Stidham’s situation is unprecedented in NFL history. With only four career starts, he has the fewest games played by any quarterback entering a conference championship. This contrasts with notable past examples, such as Jeff Hostetler, who had five starts when he led the Giants to the NFC title game.
Challenges for the Patriots
- Stidham’s lack of starting experience raises concerns about his performance under pressure.
- The Broncos’ defense, known for its strength, poses a major threat. They finished the season ranked fourth in scoring defense.
Strength of the Broncos’ Defense
The Broncos possess a formidable defense, characterized by excellent pass rush metrics. They rank second in pressure rate at 40.7% and first in sacks with a total of 68. Defensive coordinator Vance Joseph employs complex schemes that effectively disrupt opposing quarterbacks.
- Key players include:
- EDGE Nik Bonitto – 14.0 sacks
- DT Zach Allen – 73 total pressures
- CB Patrick Surtain II – Reigning Defensive Player of the Year
Keys to Victory for the Patriots
For the Patriots to succeed against the Broncos, they must focus on several strategies:
- Prepare for the Broncos’ aggressive pass rush and create a solid pressure plan.
- Avoid turnovers, especially with Stidham under center.
- Capitalize on any lead to force Stidham to take on a more active role as the game progresses.
Conclusion
The AFC Championship Game will serve as a critical test for Vrabel and the Patriots, particularly in how they adapt to Stidham’s limited experience and the Denver defense’s high-level performance. Sunday will reveal whether the Patriots can overcome these unique challenges and secure their spot in the Super Bowl.
