Denver Faces Bo Nix Injury and New England Eyes Super Bowl Return

ATLANTA — The New England Patriots and Denver Broncos meet Sunday in the AFC Championship Game with a trip to Super Bowl LX on the line, setting up a high-stakes showdown as the NFL playoffs narrow to four teams.

The Patriots advanced after a 28-16 win over the Houston Texans in the divisional round, relying on a balanced offense and stifling defense to book their place in the conference title game. Quarterback Drake Maye has led New England’s offense this season and, in only his second year in the league, is among MVP candidates as he pursues the franchise’s first Super Bowl appearance in several seasons.

The Broncos, top seed in the AFC, reached the championship after a dramatic 33-30 overtime win against the Buffalo Bills. Denver quarterback Bo Nix suffered a fractured ankle late in that game and will miss the remainder of the playoffs, including Sunday’s contest. Nix underwent surgery and is sidelined as backup Jarrett Stidham prepares to start the biggest game of his career.

Stidham, who has made only four career starts and no postseason starts, takes over in a pivotal moment for the Broncos. Head coach Sean Payton has voiced confidence in Stidham’s readiness, pointing to his experience and preparation despite limited game action.

For Denver, the injury to Nix adds urgency to a defense that has been a strong unit throughout the season. The Broncos defense will be tasked with slowing New England’s offense and compensating for a less experienced quarterback under center.

New England enters the game with motivation not only to reach the Super Bowl but also to break through after playoff drought. The Patriots’ last conference title and Super Bowl run came in the 2018 season, culminating in a Super Bowl LIII victory.

Sunday’s game will be broadcast nationally, with kickoff scheduled for 3 p.m. EST. The winner advances to Super Bowl LX on Feb. 8 at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California.