The stage is set for a historic moment in football history. Jarrett Stidham, the Broncos' quarterback, is on the cusp of making history. But can he follow in the footsteps of Frank Reich, the only quarterback to win his first playoff start? It's a tall order, but one that could make him a legend. Stidham will step into the spotlight next weekend, replacing the injured Bo Nix, and face a formidable challenge. Since 1950, only six quarterbacks have started a postseason game after a season without a single start. Frank Reich, the legendary Bills quarterback, is the only one to emerge victorious. In 1992, Reich led the Bills to an epic comeback against the Oilers, erasing a 35-3 deficit in the third quarter to win in overtime. But it wasn't just his first start; Reich had already thrown 47 passes in five appearances that season. Stidham, on the other hand, has yet to throw a single pass in the 2024 season. This is his chance to shine. The question remains: can he match Reich's success? In 1972, Roger Staubach made his first start in the NFC Championship, but the Cowboys fell short against Washington. Stidham's journey to this point has been unique. He last played in Weeks 17 and 18 of the 2023 season and started two games at the end of the 2022 season, making this his fourth career start. Will he be the one to etch his name in football history? In seven days, Stidham will face either his former team, the Patriots, or the Houston Oilers' successors, a team that Frank Reich vanquished 33 years ago. Will he rise to the occasion and make history?
