– Stidham vs. the Pats: This will be the first time heās lined up opposite New England, and the stakes couldnāt be higher with a trip to the Super Bowl on the line. š
– Protection boost for Stidham: Center Luke Wattenberg is activated from IR and will start, returning after missing four weeks. His presence should help keep Stidham clean in the pocket. š
– Broncosā pass-catch additions: Elijah Moore and Michael Bandy are elevated for the game to spice up the passing game. Bandy has 4 catches for 50 yards and a TD in four appearances this season, while Moore ā a veteran playmaker with 209 career catches for 2,274 yards and 9 TDs ā could be active due to matchup needs. Mooreās status could swing the receiver depth Sunday. šš
– Stidhamās weapons: Behind Courtland Sutton, Evan Engram remains a key target (Engram, though a tight end, is the Broncosā third-leading pass-catcher). Expect a mix of targets and quick-hitters to move the chains. šš
– Rookie note and other moves: Rookie Pat Bryant will suit up but has had two concussions this season. The Broncos will lean on Stidham with a banged-up but improved surrounding cast. Meanwhile, New England shuffled pieces on their end, including activating Mack Hollins and trimming Trent Sherfield from the roster. š
Big picture: Stidham has a real shot to shock the Pats and push Denver toward the Super Bowl, backed by a healthier line, new receivers, and a familiar, albeit unfamiliar, opponent. š„šš
