Patriots vs Broncos AFC Championship Full Game Simulation | Madden 26

The AFC Championship returns to a frigid Empower Field at Mile High for a historic collision between the New England Patriots and the top-seeded Denver Broncos. This Madden 26 simulation features live rosters, depth charts, and injury data updated for Saturday, January 24, 2026, as both teams prepare for tomorrow's showdown.

Latest News: The Denver Broncos (15-3) are officially entering the "Stidham Era" in the postseason. With star QB Bo Nix recovering from successful surgery on his fractured right ankle, veteran Jarrett Stidham—who was originally drafted by New England—makes his first career playoff start against his former team. While WR Pat Bryant has cleared concussion protocol and is set to play, the Broncos' backfield remains thin with J.K. Dobbins and Lucas Krull officially ruled out. Denver’s #1 ranked defense, coached by PFWA Assistant Coach of the Year Vance Joseph, will be the focal point as they look to protect their home turf in a forecasted Arctic atmosphere (high of 18°F with potential snow).

The New England Patriots (16-3) arrive in Denver as the most dangerous road team in the NFL, boasting a perfect 8-0 away record this season. Under PFWA Coach of the Year Mike Vrabel, the Patriots have become a turnover-forcing machine, evidenced by their five takeaways in the Divisional Round. MVP finalist Drake Maye—recently named the league's Most Improved Player—has developed elite chemistry with veteran Stefon Diggs, who joined the team as a free agent from Houston. New England welcomes back Milton Williams and Robert Spillane to the lineup, though the status of CB Carlton Davis III (concussion protocol) remains a game-time decision.

Will the Patriots finally conquer the Mile High altitude where they are 0-4 in playoff history, or can Stidham pull off the ultimate "Next Man Up" miracle?

#fullgamesimulation
#nfl #madden26 #collegefootball