The Denver Broncos face a significant setback as their starting quarterback, Bo Nix, has been sidelined for the remainder of the playoffs due to a severe ankle injury. This injury occurred during a pivotal moment in the divisional playoff game against the Buffalo Bills.
Injury Details
Bo Nix suffered a broken ankle during the overtime period of the game, which ended with the Broncos victorious at 33-30. The injury took place on a critical fourth down play, where Nix was tackled by Bills’ safety Cole Bishop, resulting in a loss of two yards.
Despite the injury, Nix remained on the field for two additional plays. The first involved a pass interference penalty against Buffalo, which positioned the ball at the 8-yard line. The second play was a kneel-down that set up a game-winning 23-yard field goal by Wil Lutz.
Playoff Impact
Coach Sean Payton confirmed that Nix will not participate in the remainder of the playoffs due to his injury. The loss of Nix is a significant blow to the Broncos, as he had been performing well throughout the season.
Stats and Performance
- Nix completed 26 out of 46 passes.
- He accumulated 279 passing yards.
- He threw three touchdown passes.
- Nix also rushed for 29 yards on 12 carries.
Next Steps for the Broncos
With Nix out of the lineup, Jarrett Stidham is set to step in as the starting quarterback. Stidham, in his third year with the Broncos and sixth in the NFL, has minimal recent game experience, having played only one game this season without recording a pass. Coach Payton expressed confidence in Stidham, stating, “He [Stidham] is ready. We will be prepared for the next challenge.”
The Broncos will now rely on Stidham to lead them into their next playoff matchup as they aim to overcome this adversity.
