description
It’s unclear as to how much of it was intentional, but early into Jan. 25, 2026’s AFC Championship Game, both quarterbacks made it clear that they wouldn’t be fearful in testing the all-world cornerbacks along the perimeter. For Patrick Surtain II, that meant opportunities to make plays, and Denver’s superstar did just that, locking up New England’s downfield pass attempt and throwing away the key on a 2nd & 12. Surtain’s highlight helped prompt a punt thereafter, and it served as a tone-setter in a defensive-minded game; despite the 10-7 loss to the Patriots, he remained in All-Pro form, recording five tackles and a pass defended.