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Watch: Denver Broncos strike first after 52-yard heave

Originally posted on Ball Exclusives | By James Parker | Last updated Jan 25, 2026 5:32 PM ET

The Denver Broncos were the first to score in Sunday’s AFC Championship matchup against the New England Patriots after a 52-yard heave from QB Jarrett Stidham, who hadn’t played an NFL snap in two seasons prior to the game.

STIDHAM GOING DEEP TO MARVIN MIMS JR.

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— NFL (@NFL) January 25, 2026

After the impressive connection to WR Marvin Mims Jr. put them in the red zone, Stidham found Courtland Sutton in the end zone to take a 7-0 advantage early.

JARRETT STIDHAM FINDS COURTLAND SUTTON FOR THE TD

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— NFL (@NFL) January 25, 2026

Broncos QB Bo Nix, who was the starter this season, is out for the remainder of the playoffs with an ankle injury. But with just over five minutes left to play in the opening quarter, Stidham has already calmed some of the QB concerns for Broncos fans.

This article first appeared on Ball Exclusives and was syndicated with permission.

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