Expert prediction
AFC Championship Game: New England Patriots vs. Denver Broncos Preview, Odds, Picks (Jan 24)
- Nikola Velickovic
- Jan 19, 2026 at 6:13 AM EST
- Patriots vs. Broncos odds favor New England by 5.5 points.
- Bo Nix won’t play due to his ankle injury.
- Jarrett Stidham starts instead of Nix for the Broncos.
This will be a big one for Jarrett Stidham, who’s going to replace Bo Nix and try to enter Nick Foles mode, leading his team to the Super Bowl as a replacement QB.
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How to Watch
- When: Sunday, January 24, 3 pm ET
- Where: Mile High, Denver, Colorado
- How to Watch: CBS
Patriots vs. Broncos Odds
Game Preview
The New England Patriots’ defense has stiffed CJ Stroud, forcing him to throw 4 interceptions, and the Texans have made 5 turnovers overall. They were the difference-makers in this one.
The Pats had 3 turnovers but still won 28-16, with Drake Maye throwing for 179 yards and 3 touchdowns. He had an interception, yet that was a Hail Mary at the end of the half. Kayshon Boutte, Stefon Diggs and DeMario Douglas all had a TD reception each.
Note for the Broncos and their fans: I know it has been an emotional 24 hours. I feel for Bo and the team, and I'm sending prayers for a strong recovery.
— Nick Foles (@NickFoles) January 18, 2026
A positive note going into the game versus the Patriots is that they struggle against backup QBs in championship-type games.
Denver squeezed out a 33-30 OT win against the Bills, but it was costly: Nix injured his ankle and is out for the season. Their defense was the better part of the team, forcing 5 turnovers, while the offense lost possession just once.
The Broncos sacked Josh Allen 5 times for 68 negative yards, and overall, the reason for the win here was defense, not Nix and the pretty mediocre running.
Patriots vs. Broncos Head to Head
The last meeting was in 2023 when New England won 26-23 on the road.
Patriots vs. Broncos Predictions
Pats are going to win here because of Stidham. Don’t get us wrong, he is a good QB, but the current situation is too much for a guy who had one snap this year.
- Free NFL picks: Patriots -5.5
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