Backup Lineman Scores First Career Catch in Playoffs

Frank Crum spent his entire football career protecting quarterbacks, not catching passes from them. But in the biggest game of his life, the Denver Broncos backup offensive lineman became an unexpected touchdown hero.

During Sunday's playoff battle against the Buffalo Bills, Crum lined up as an eligible receiver on third down near the goal line. Quarterback Bo Nix fired him the ball, and the big man rumbled into the end zone for his first career catch and first career touchdown.

The play gave Denver a 10-7 lead in the second quarter. It capped an eight-play, 69-yard drive that started when the Broncos defense forced and recovered a fumble.

For offensive linemen, catching a pass is the ultimate football dream. These players work in the trenches every game, doing the tough blocking work that rarely gets celebrated. When one gets a chance to score, it becomes a moment the whole team rallies around.

Sunny's Take

Crum's touchdown shows why football fans love playoff football. This wasn't a star receiver making another highlight reel catch. It was a backup lineman getting his moment to shine when his team needed him most.

The play also highlights the creativity coaches bring to high-stakes games. Someone on Denver's staff trusted that a 300-pound lineman could catch the ball and find the end zone. That trust paid off in the best possible way.

For Crum, it's a memory that will last forever. Every offensive lineman dreams of catching a touchdown pass. Doing it in the playoffs makes it even sweeter.

The Broncos are fighting to extend their season, and they're doing it with contributions from every corner of the roster. When backup players step up in crucial moments, it shows the strength of the entire team.

One play doesn't decide a playoff game, but it can change momentum and lift spirits. Crum's touchdown did both, energizing Denver and proving that anyone can be a hero on any given Sunday.