Ahead of the Denver Broncos’ upcoming matchup against the New England Patriots, former NFL quarterback Nick Foles revisited a notable moment in football history that resonates with both franchises. Foles, who famously led the Philadelphia Eagles to a Super Bowl LII victory over the Patriots, made the remark in light of Broncos quarterback Jarrett Stidham preparing to start the game.
Stidham, who began the season as a backup, is being called on to take the reins under center as the Broncos look to maintain competitiveness late in the regular season. The timing and circumstance echo Foles’ own experience during the 2017 NFL season, when he stepped in for an injured Carson Wentz and ultimately guided the Eagles through the playoffs to a 41-33 win over New England. Foles’ performance in that game, which included three touchdown passes and one receiving touchdown in the now-iconic ‘Philly Special’ play, earned him Super Bowl MVP honors.
Foles’ recent comments appeared to highlight the possibility that backup quarterbacks can deliver on the biggest stage, a sentiment that may offer encouragement to both Stidham and Broncos fans ahead of the high-profile matchup. While the current context differs from the stakes of a Super Bowl, the underlying theme of overcoming adversity at the backup position remains relevant.
The Broncos have faced several shifts at quarterback in recent seasons, and Stidham’s start represents another chapter in that ongoing effort to achieve stability under center. A former fourth-round pick, Stidham has spent time with the Patriots earlier in his career, adding another layer of intrigue to the game.
This meeting between the Broncos and the Patriots not only pits two historic franchises against each other, but also serves as a reminder of how past narratives in the NFL continue to influence current storylines. Whether Stidham can channel some of the same magic that Foles produced in 2017 remains to be seen, but the stage is set for another compelling entry in the league’s deep reservoir of quarterback drama.
