“Unleashing Potential: The Impressive Performance of Broncos Backup QB Jarrett Stidham in Preseason Finale”

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Broncos backup QB Jarrett Stidham shines in preseason finale win over Los Angeles Rams

By Ryan McFadden | rmcfadden@denverpost.com | The Denver Post

August 27, 2023

In a preseason finale that felt more like a playoff game, Broncos backup quarterback Jarrett Stidham delivered an impressive performance that left fans and coaches alike in awe. Stidham, who signed with Denver in the offseason after a stint with the Las Vegas Raiders, showcased his abilities in a 41-0 victory over the Los Angeles Rams at Empower Field on Saturday night.

A Promising Display

Stidham’s performance was a revelation, demonstrating his growth and potential as he led the Broncos offense with confidence and poise. From the very beginning, he set the tone for the game, orchestrating an impressive touchdown drive and completing all six of his throws for 71 yards. But it was his deep ball that caught everyone’s attention.

In the first quarter, Stidham launched a 50-yard pass to rookie wide receiver Marvin Mims Jr. Although initially ruled as a touchdown, the play was later corrected to a 50-yard completion due to Stidham not being able to witness the outcome as he was temporarily winded. Later in the second quarter, Stidham showcased his arm strength once again, connecting with wide receiver Brandon Johnson on a 49-yard pass. The play demonstrated Stidham’s ability to take calculated risks and trust his receivers to make contested catches.

Overall, Stidham finished the game with an impressive stat line of 236 yards passing, one touchdown, and a first-down scramble for 20 yards. His performance showcased a mix of swagger, toughness, and a willingness to stay in the pocket despite taking hits. It was an all-around impressive showing that left fans and coaches alike buzzing about his potential.

The Importance of Sean Payton

One of the driving factors in Stidham’s decision to sign with the Broncos was head coach Sean Payton. Stidham mentioned Payton’s history with quarterbacks and winning as a major reason for choosing Denver. Stidham’s desire to learn from and be mentored by a proven coach speaks to his commitment to his craft and his understanding of the importance of guidance in his development.

Stidham’s previous experiences backing up Tom Brady, Derek Carr, and Russell Wilson have undoubtedly shaped his perspective and approach to the game. As he awaits an opportunity to become a starter, he continues to focus on improving his skills and honing his craft. His dedication to preparation is evident, and it is likely that this mindset will yield positive results as he progresses in his career.

The Backup Quarterback Dilemma

While Stidham’s preseason performance has undoubtedly impressed, it also raises important questions about the role and value of the backup quarterback in the NFL. Traditionally, the backup quarterback is seen as a safety net, someone who is ready to step in if the starter goes down due to injury or poor performance. However, with Stidham’s talent and potential shining through, his performances beg the question of whether he might be better suited for a starting role.

The Broncos, like many other teams, have invested in a talented backup quarterback to provide insurance for their starting quarterback. But what happens when the backup outperforms the starter? Should Stidham continue to wait in the wings, biding his time for an opportunity, or should the Broncos consider a change at the starting position? These questions create a quandary for coaches and front-office personnel, as they balance the team’s immediate needs with the long-term potential of their backup quarterback.

Editorial

Jarrett Stidham’s performance in the preseason finale raises interesting philosophical questions about player development and the value of backup quarterbacks in the NFL. While starter positions are often solidified, backup quarterbacks are in a unique position to prove their worth and potentially rise to prominence. Stidham’s journey from backing up some of the league’s top quarterbacks to showcasing his skills in a preseason game demonstrates the delicate balance teams must strike between loyalty to their starters and recognizing the potential within their backups.

On one hand, teams invest a significant amount of time and resources in establishing their starting quarterback. These players are often the face of the franchise and the leaders of the team. But on the other hand, talented backups like Stidham deserve the opportunity to compete and showcase their abilities, especially when they consistently outperform their counterparts.

This dilemma highlights the importance of recognizing talent and giving players the chance to prove themselves. In Stidham’s case, his performances in both the preseason and previous regular-season games have shown that he has the potential to be a starting quarterback in the NFL. The Broncos must carefully consider his abilities and weigh the team’s immediate needs against the long-term potential of their backup.

Advice

To the Denver Broncos organization, the advice is simple but challenging: Give Jarrett Stidham a legitimate opportunity to compete for the starting quarterback position. While the loyalty and stability of a starting quarterback are important, it’s equally important to recognize talent and reward exceptional performances. Stidham has showcased his abilities and potential, and it is only fair to allow him a fair chance to compete for the starting role.

If Stidham continues to impress in practices and preseason games, the Broncos should seriously consider a change at the starting position. It is essential for the team to evaluate their long-term goals and the potential impact Stidham could have on their success. The NFL is a league driven by performance, and if a backup quarterback consistently outperforms the starter, it may be time to make a change.

Finally, to Jarrett Stidham, the advice is to stay focused and continue to improve. His dedication to his craft and commitment to preparation have already yielded positive results. As he waits for his opportunity, he must continue to work hard and refine his skills. Whether it is as a starter or a backup, Stidham’s abilities have been proven, and the future looks bright for this talented quarterback.