Following the Denver Broncos’ narrow 10-7 loss to the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship game, star cornerback Pat Surtain stirred conversation among fans and analysts by retweeting a post that implied the Broncos would have won if rookie quarterback Bo Nix had been healthy and able to play.
Social Media Sparks Debate
The tweet in question suggested that Bo Nix’s presence could have changed the outcome of the game. Surtain’s retweet was quickly noticed and screenshots circulated online, even after he deleted the post from his profile. The incident has fueled speculation about the team’s confidence in Nix and what might have been if he had not suffered a season-ending ankle injury during the divisional round of the playoffs.
Impact of Bo Nix’s Absence
With Bo Nix sidelined, backup quarterback Jarrett Stidham started in the crucial game against the Patriots. Stidham’s performance was marred by two costly turnovers—a fumble that led to New England’s only touchdown and an interception that ended Denver’s final drive. These mistakes proved decisive in a closely contested game, leaving Broncos fans and players alike to wonder about the potential impact of Nix’s absence.
Bo Nix, who had shown promise during the regular season, was expected to be a key factor in the Broncos’ postseason run. His injury forced the team to adjust its game plan and rely on Stidham, whose turnovers ultimately contributed to the team’s defeat.
Fan Reactions and Team Outlook
The retweet by Surtain has amplified ongoing discussions among Broncos supporters about the team’s future at quarterback. Many fans share the sentiment that a healthy Nix could have led Denver to victory, while others point to the need for improved depth and resilience in the face of injuries.
As the Broncos enter the offseason, questions remain about Bo Nix’s recovery and the team’s plans moving forward. The incident also highlights the influence of social media on player narratives and team dynamics in today’s NFL.
While Pat Surtain’s retweet was quickly removed, the conversation it sparked underscores the high expectations surrounding Bo Nix and the importance of the quarterback position in the Broncos’ quest for postseason success.