Colts make surprising quarterback shift for season finale
The Indianapolis Colts are shaking things up at the quarterback position as they prepare for their season finale against the Houston Texans. In a notable move, rookie Riley Leonard has been named the starting quarterback, while veteran Philip Rivers finds himself sidelined. Instead of serving as Leonard’s backup, Rivers will be replaced by the recently signed Seth Henigan.
Coaching Decisions Impacting the Depth Chart
Head coach Shane Steichen confirmed the quarterback hierarchy for the upcoming game, stating that Leonard will start, backed up by Henigan. This decision comes as Rivers, the future Hall of Famer, is unlikely to participate in the game. After observing practice, a source reported, “Just watched practice today,” indicating the urgency of the situation.
It’s not entirely surprising to see the Colts opt for Henigan over the 44-year-old Rivers. The seasoned quarterback has struggled in recent outings, leading the team to three consecutive losses against the Seattle Seahawks, San Francisco 49ers, and Jacksonville Jaguars. This disheartening streak has contributed to a daunting six-game losing skid for the Colts.
Leonard Faces a Tough Challenge
As Leonard steps into the starting role, he is set to face a formidable Houston defense that has been nearly impenetrable during its impressive eight-game winning streak, allowing an average of just 18.0 points per game. The sixth-round draft pick from this year will have to navigate a challenging environment at NRG Stadium on Sunday afternoon, marking a critical moment in his young career.
Henigan’s Promising Background
For Henigan, this will be his first opportunity to be active on the Colts’ 53-man roster this season. While the name might not be widely recognized, his college career offers a glimpse of his potential. During his time with the Memphis Tigers, Henigan compiled eye-popping statistics over 50 games, showcasing his offensive capabilities.
Passing Yards: 14,266
Passing Touchdowns: 104
Interceptions: 31
Rushing Touchdowns: 10
Completions/Attempts: 1,147/1,791
Completion Percentage: 64.0%
These numbers paint a picture of a quarterback who possesses the tools to succeed at the professional level. As the Colts navigate a turbulent season, all eyes will be on Leonard and Henigan as they attempt to turn the tide against the Texans.
