Both the Broncos and Patriots enter the 2026 AFC Championship Game with identical 14-3 regular-season records, but the narrative shifted dramatically after Broncos star quarterback Bo Nix was ruled out with a season-ending broken ankle, leaving veteran Jarrett Stidham to lead the offense.

ESPN's broadcast of the national anthem before the College Football Playoff National Championship between Miami and Indiana was ruined.

A Colorado-born singer with deep roots in Americana and soul will handle the anthem duties ahead of the AFC title clash.