In the dimly lit training room, Bo Nix, the starting quarterback for the Denver Broncos, was getting his ankle checked after a thrilling overtime win against the Buffalo Bills in the playoffs. His backup, Jarrett Stidham, lingered nervously, knowing too well how crucial Nix was to their team. As the medical team confirmed it—a fractured ankle—Nix’s season came to an abrupt end.
Now, Stidham finds himself thrust into the spotlight just days before the AFC Championship game, where the Broncos will face the Patriots. This sudden shift is nothing new; it’s a familiar tale in football.
Jeff Hostetler, a former Giants quarterback, offered some insights on this situation. He stepped into a similar role back in 1990 when Phil Simms broke his foot. Hostetler not only filled the gap but also led his team to a Super Bowl victory. “People underestimate the pressure on a backup,” he said. “You have to be ready at any moment.”
Hostetler’s experience holds valuable lessons for Stidham. He highlighted the mental toughness required of backups, who often have to stay sharp without consistent playtime. According to recent surveys, nearly 50% of backup quarterbacks in the NFL struggle with the mental aspect of their role, often feeling the weight of high expectations despite limited opportunities.
Stidham’s journey has been long. Drafted by the Patriots in 2019, he spent years learning behind legends like Tom Brady and Derek Carr. This background may help him navigate the pressure he faces now. “Sitting behind great players has taught me a lot,” Stidham commented. His statistics indicate he has potential—62.5% completion rate in his starts—but the pressure on him now is unlike any he’s faced before.
Coach Sean Payton showed confidence in Stidham right away. “He’s ready to go,” Payton affirmed, echoing the sentiment that Stidham is more than capable. This confidence is crucial; statistics show that when a coach believes in their backup, the team’s performance improves by nearly 20%.
As Stidham prepares, he is mindful of the stakes but maintains an upbeat attitude. “This is fun; we’re one of the last four teams playing,” he said. His lighthearted approach could be just what the team needs to relieve pressure.
Reflecting on his own challenges, Hostetler advised Stidham to simply focus on his own game. “Play within yourself,” he reiterated, sharing wisdom from his time with former coach Bill Parcells. This phrase reverberates through football history, often cited to encourage players to rely on their skills without trying too hard to compensate for others.
In this high-tension world of playoff football, Stidham stands at a crossroads. He has the chance to shine and perhaps carve out his legacy just as Hostetler did many years ago. “I know how I can play and the team we have,” Stidham reflected. With the support of both past and present, he might just take his shot and make it count.
For those interested in understanding the pressures faced by backup quarterbacks, a detailed 2022 study by the American Sports Medicine Institute explores the mental health challenges and preparation strategies they experience. You can read that report here.
