West Forsyth Alumni Face Off in AFC Championship as Patriots Edge Broncos

In a thrilling AFC Championship game on January 25, 2026, the New England Patriots narrowly defeated the Denver Broncos 10-7, securing their spot in Super Bowl LX against the Seattle Seahawks.

 

This matchup held special significance for the West Forsyth High School community in Clemmons, North Carolina, as two of their alumni, Ja'Quan McMillian and Jared Wilson, faced off on opposing teams.

 

Ja'Quan McMillian, a standout cornerback for the Broncos, has been a pivotal player since joining the team as an undrafted free agent in 2022.

 

Over the past seasons, McMillian has accumulated impressive stats, including 195 total tackles, 7 sacks, 5 forced fumbles, and 6 interceptions, one of which he returned for a touchdown.

 

His performance in the 2025 season was particularly noteworthy, with 81 tackles, 2 interceptions, and a sack, solidifying his role as a key defensive asset for Denver.

 

In the Divisional Round against the Buffalo Bills, McMillian's overtime interception of Josh Allen was instrumental in the Broncos' 33-30 victory, propelling them to the AFC Championship.

 

On the other side, Jared Wilson, drafted by the Patriots in the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft, has made significant contributions as the team's starting center.

 

During his redshirt junior year at the University of Georgia, Wilson started all 12 games, earning Second Team All-SEC honors and showcasing his prowess on the offensive line.

 

His transition to the NFL has been seamless, with Wilson starting all 10 games he played in the 2025 season, providing stability and strength to New England's offensive front.

 

The AFC Championship game was a defensive battle, with both teams struggling to generate significant offensive yardage.

 

The Patriots managed only 206 total yards, but their defense held firm, limiting the Broncos to a single touchdown.

 

Patriots' quarterback and UNC Alumni, Drake Maye, contributed with 65 rushing yards, compensating for a modest passing performance.

 

Running back Rhamondre Stevenson added 71 rushing yards on 25 carries, embodying the team's conservative yet effective approach.

 

For the West Forsyth community, seeing McMillian and Wilson excel at the highest level of professional football is a source of immense pride.

 

Their journey from high school teammates to NFL adversaries underscores the talent and dedication fostered at West Forsyth High School.

 

As the Patriots prepare to face the Seahawks in Super Bowl LX, the Clemmons community will undoubtedly rally behind Wilson, while also celebrating McMillian's remarkable achievements with the Broncos.

 

This Super Bowl matchup is particularly intriguing, as it marks a rematch of Super Bowl XLIX, where the Patriots secured a 28-24 victory over the Seahawks.

 

Both teams have undergone significant changes since then, with new players and coaching staff bringing fresh dynamics to the game.

 

For McMillian and Wilson, this season has been a testament to their growth and resilience. From their days at West Forsyth to their current roles in the NFL, they have demonstrated exceptional skill and determination.

 

Their story serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes in  Clemmons and beyond, illustrating that with hard work and perseverance, dreams can indeed become reality.

 

As Super Bowl LX approaches, all eyes will be on the Patriots and Seahawks, but for the West Forsyth community, the journey of McMillian and Wilson will remain a highlight of this NFL season.

 

Their achievements not only bring honor to their alma mater but also reinforce the rich tradition of excellence that West Forsyth High School continues to uphold.