The Denver Broncos got that spark they were looking for with a quarterback switch — from their defense, anyway. At least, though, the Broncos are headed into a new year on a feel-good note even if they were officially eliminated from the playoff race. Jarrett Stidham threw for 224 yards and a touchdown in an uneven performance during his first start in place of a benched Russell Wilson as the Broncos beat the Los Angeles Chargers 16-9 on Sunday.
Denver Broncos coach Sean Payton is sending Russell Wilson to the sideline in order to see if Jarrett Stidham can spark a sporadic offense Sunday against the Los Angeles Chargers (5-10), who are relying on Easton Stick after an injury to Justin Herbert. The Broncos (7-8) still have a slim playoff chance — an 8% chance at the moment, according to the NFL — that now rides on Stidham’s right arm.