In the high-stakes buildup to the **AFC Conference Championship**, the matchup between the **Denver Broncos** and the **New England Patriots** has taken on an extra layer of intensity, thanks to some pointed comments from Broncos defensive end **John Franklin-Myers**. What began as routine media availability quickly escalated into a verbal exchange that has transformed the game into what many are calling an AFC “derby match”—a clash not just of teams, but of pride, identity, and belief in their respective quarterbacks.
Franklin-Myers, a key member of Denver’s formidable defensive line, did not mince words when discussing the Broncos’ preparation for the Patriots. Facing off against New England’s quarterback **Drake Maye** in the biggest game of the season, the Broncos have been using their backup quarterback **Jarrett Stidham** to run scout-team reps mimicking the Patriots’ offense.
Franklin-Myers showered praise on Stidham, highlighting his command of the system and his ability to execute at a high level. “He understands why a play is called, where the ball should go, and how fast everything needs to happen,” Franklin-Myers said during a recent interview.
The comments carried an unmistakable implication. While Franklin-Myers never named Maye directly, the contrast was clear: Stidham was portrayed as the savvy veteran who truly understands the game, while Maye—despite his impressive rookie and sophomore campaigns—was subtly cast as someone who might still be learning the nuances. “Some guys just run the play,” Franklin-Myers added, in what many interpreted as a thinly veiled dig at the young Patriots signal-caller.
In the context of a conference title game, where every advantage matters, these remarks struck a nerve.Patriots fans and observers in Foxborough saw it as outright disrespect toward their franchise quarterback, the player many believe represents the future of the storied organization.
The Broncos’ confidence heading into the game is no surprise. Denver has built one of the league’s most dominant defenses this season, and their secondary and pass rush have been relentless in the playoffs. Franklin-Myers himself has contributed significantly with sacks and pressures, and his comments reflect the belief that Denver’s defense can exploit any perceived weaknesses in Maye’s game.
By elevating Stidham—who has been a reliable scout-team performer—the Broncos are signaling that they are ready to challenge Maye’s decision-making and poise under pressure.The message is loud and clear: Denver believes their preparation and execution give them the edge, even against a talented young quarterback like Maye.
Word of Franklin-Myers’ remarks spread quickly across the NFL landscape, and the response from New England was swift and fiery. It didn’t come from Maye himself—the second-year quarterback has largely stayed composed and focused on preparation—but from one of the Patriots’ most vocal leaders: wide receiver **Stefon Diggs**. Acquired in a blockbuster trade to bolster New England’s passing attack, Diggs has quickly become a locker-room presence and a mentor figure for Maye. When asked about the Broncos’ comments, Diggs didn’t hesitate to fire back.
“Talk is cheap,” Diggs said emphatically. “You find out who really understands the game when the lights are brightest.” He went on to defend his quarterback and the entire Patriots organization, declaring that respect isn’t handed out—it’s earned on the field. “We don’t need respect from the outside. We earn it on the field—for our quarterback, for our fans, for New England.” The words carried the weight of a declaration, rallying the fan base and underscoring the emotional stakes of the game. Diggs’ response electrified Patriots supporters, turning the verbal standoff into a full-blown narrative of defiance and determination.
The exchange has added fuel to an already compelling matchup. The Patriots, led by Maye and Diggs, represent a team on the rise, with a young quarterback showing flashes of elite talent and a veteran receiver willing to stand up for his teammates. The Broncos, meanwhile, exude confidence, bolstered by their stout defense and the belief that they can dictate the game on both sides of the ball. Franklin-Myers’ comments may have been intended to motivate his own team, but they have also galvanized the opposition.
As the conference championship approaches, the game has grown far beyond X’s and O’s. It is now a test of character, resilience, and belief. Will Maye rise to the occasion and silence the doubters with a masterful performance? Can the Broncos’ defense turn their words into action and pressure the young quarterback into mistakes? Or will Diggs’ fiery retort prove prophetic, with New England proving their worth when it matters most?
The AFC is bracing for one of the most intense and emotionally charged games in recent memory. When the ball is snapped at Empower Field at Mile High, every comparison, every insult, and every bold statement will be settled on the field. Pride is on the line, and in a derby match like this, the outcome will be decided not just by strategy, but by heart.
In the end, trash talk is part of the NFL’s fabric, especially in the playoffs. But when it involves young stars like Maye and established leaders like Diggs, it elevates the stakes. Franklin-Myers may have started the fire with his praise for Stidham, but Diggs has ensured that the flames burn brightly on both sides. Come game day, the talking stops—and the playing begins. The winner will advance to the Super Bowl, but the respect earned will last much longer.
