It’s the calm before the storm. On Sunday, the Denver Broncos will host the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship Game. The winner punches their ticket to Santa Clara, while the loser will have
all offseason to analyze how and where they fell short. In order for the Broncos to be victorious on Sunday, these are three players I believe need to perform well.
Nik Bonitto — Edge Rusher
Last Saturday against the Buffalo Bills, standout edge rusher Nik Bonitto had two huge plays that resulted in turnovers that helped the Broncos advance. This weekend, they will need the fourth-year pro to continue his career year and find a way to help disrupt the Patriots’ offense.
Quarterback Drake Maye has had a phenomenal season. However, the Patriots’ offensive line has given up a lot of sacks. Even Maye’s biggest supporters concede him holding onto the ball too long has been an issue. While the second-year signal caller performed very well in the regular season, but his production has tapered off going against two strong defenses to start his playoff journey.
I’m optimistic Defensive Coordinator Vance Joseph will come up with a great game plan and find a way to disrupt New England’s passing offense. Bonitto and the rest of the defensive front seven will play a huge role in that. Asking for multiple turnovers or even one is a big ask, but I’d settle for Bonitto’s prowess coming off the edge and rattling Maye on a consistent basis good enough. Heck, maybe he can even get him to throw a rare interception.
Jarrett Stidham — Quarterback
Veteran quarterback Jarrett Stidham squares off against the franchise that drafted him seven seasons ago. That’s one big story angle for this weekend’s game. Throughout the week, Head Coach Sean Payton and Stidham’s teammates have given him a lot of praise and vowed confidence in his abilities. Even Patriots Offensive Coordinator Josh McDaniels, who spent multiple years coaching him, lauded his intelligence, arm strength and character.
As I’ve mentioned throughout the week, the Broncos don’t need a Herculean effort from Stidham. And it’s definitely not a game where it’s all on his shoulders. It’s a team game. Truth be told, they need him to be efficient and avoid mistakes. That’s still a tough ask—especially considering how great the Patriots’ defense has performed down the stretch.
Even so, I remain optimistic that he can perform well. Jaleel McLaughlin and RJ Harvey will have to help support Stidham by being effective running game. If they can do that, I expect Stidham to be able to convert on third downs and help move the chains. He is a strong intermediate passer with a good arm. But Denver will also need to protect him well which brings me to my third and final player to discuss as a key to Sunday’s game.
Garett Bolles — Offensive Tackle
In his ninth season with the Broncos, offensive tackle Garett Bolles arguably has put together best season to date. His topflight pass protection and run blocking earned him his second Pro-Bowl designation along with being an All-Pro for the first time in his career.
It’s safe to say Bolles has come a long way since being Denver’s first-round selection in the 2017 NFL Draft. Once a player who was booed due to his inconsistent performances and penalties, Bolles is the team’s longest-tenured player. Not only that, but of its most important leaders on and off the field.
The former Utah Ute has performed at a high level all year long. Protecting Stidham and helping get the run game going will be two important factors to help Denver achieve victory. I fully expect #72 to be able to hold his own in this one.
He’s been through every single up and down the franchise has endured the past nine years. All things considered, I believe he will come up clutch in the biggest game of his impressive career. He has been a great Bronco, and someday I will envision Bolles will rightfully earn his space in the franchises Ring of Fame.
How about you, Broncos Country? Who are three players you think need to perform well in order for Denver to advance to the AFC Championship Game? Let us know in the comments below.
