Patriots-Broncos AFC Championship Preview With Nick Coit

The New England Patriots are one win away from football’s biggest stage, and Fun 107 Patriots Analyst Nick Coit said this AFC Championship appearance already feels like the start of a new era in New England.

Coit admitted that at the beginning of the season, nobody could have realistically predicted the Patriots would be one win away from the Super Bowl after so many disappointing years. Now, Coit said the 2025 season will be remembered as the year the Patriots reestablished themselves as a franchise that belongs among the NFL’s true contenders.

Vrabel's Culture Reset Changed Everything

Coit credited the transformation to head coach Mike Vrabel, who brought a championship mindset back to Foxboro and has already been recognized as the 2025 NFL Coach of the Year by the Professional Football Writers of America.

Coit also pointed to the Patriots’ young quarterback Drake Maye, who has emerged as a superstar and MVP candidate, as the other driving force behind the team’s turnaround.

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Why Jarrett Stidham's Start Matters

This week’s storyline took a dramatic turn when Denver’s Bo Nix was ruled out for the season, leaving former Pats quarterback Jarrett Stidham to step in for the Broncos.

While some have argued the Patriots will struggle without film on Stidham, Coit said New England has a valuable advantage in offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels, who coached Stidham for years in both New England and Las Vegas.

Can the Patriots Finally Win in Denver?

Coit warned that playing in Denver is never easy. "That home field advantage at Mile High is very real," he said. "The altitude, crowd noise, and history all matter. The Patriots are 0 and 4 in the playoffs in Denver."

However, he also reminded fans that this team has been outstanding away from home, finishing 8-0 on the road during the regular season.

Health-wise, Coit said cornerback Carlton Davis is a name to watch, while wide receiver Mack Hollins could potentially return from injured reserve.

Nick Coit's Keys to the Game and Prediction

Coit said the Patriots must protect the football, especially in a hostile environment, and force Stidham to beat them through the air.

His prediction: Patriots 28, Broncos 17, sending New England to Super Bowl LX.