The Indianapolis Colts are on the verge of climbing above .500, with a crucial matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars this Sunday. After starting the season 0-2, the Colts have bounced back with wins over the Chicago Bears and Pittsburgh Steelers, creating positive momentum as they aim for a playoff push. However, the team faces a significant decision regarding their starting quarterback, as second-year standout Anthony Richardson may be a game-time decision due to injury.
Richardson exited last week’s win over the Steelers with an oblique injury, leading veteran backup Joe Flacco to finish the game. Flacco’s solid performance has kept the Colts’ offense on track, but the question remains whether Richardson is healthy enough to take the field against Jacksonville.
According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, Richardson’s availability will depend on how functional he feels: “He wants to play, it’s a matter of functionality. Can he be himself running and throwing 100 percent? It’s not a situation where that oblique injury can worsen, so that’s the good news. Pain tolerance, functionality, so the Colts will monitor him today, see how he feels.”
While Richardson’s game-day status is uncertain, Flacco has taken the bulk of practice reps this week, positioning himself as the likely starter if Richardson is unable to play. The Colts face a dilemma: play Richardson, who has shown flashes of brilliance but has been prone to injuries, or rely on the experienced Flacco, who led the team to victory last week and has proven himself capable in relief roles.
Richardson, the fourth overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, boasts a dynamic skill set that makes him a threat both as a passer and a runner. However, his ability to stay on the field has been a concern early in his career. If he isn’t operating at or near 100 percent, keeping him on the sideline to continue healing may be the wisest choice.
Flacco, a former Super Bowl MVP with the Baltimore Ravens, has adapted well to his backup role in recent years, most notably stepping up for the Cleveland Browns last season. His strong showing against the Steelers, where he completed 16 of 26 passes for 168 yards and two touchdowns, demonstrated his readiness to lead the Colts if necessary.
Whether it’s Richardson or Flacco under center, the Colts’ objective remains clear: beat the Jaguars and move to 3-2 on the season. With a playoff berth in sight, head coach Shane Steichen will need to make the decision that gives the Colts the best chance of securing a crucial win on Sunday.
