Colts QB Anthony Richardson Questionable for Crucial Game Against Giants
The Indianapolis Colts face uncertainty at quarterback as Anthony Richardson is listed as questionable for Sunday’s pivotal matchup against the New York Giants due to back and foot injuries.
Richardson, the 22-year-old rookie, did not practice this week, but head coach Shane Steichen stopped short of ruling him out, saying:
“We’ll see how the next 48 hours go.”
If Richardson is unable to play, veteran quarterback Joe Flacco would make his fifth start of the season.
Playoff Implications for the Colts
The Colts, currently at 7-8, are clinging to playoff hopes. To keep their chances alive, they must win their final two games against the Giants (2-13) and Jaguars (3-12) and receive help from other teams in the AFC playoff race.
Richardson’s Rookie Season
Drafted with the No. 4 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, Richardson’s season has been a mixed bag:
- Completion Rate: 47.7% (126 of 264 passes)
- Passing Yards: 1,814
- Touchdowns: 8
- Interceptions: 12
- Record as Starter: 6-5
While his performance has been uneven, Richardson has shown flashes of potential, helping the Colts stay in contention.
Flacco’s Role and Experience
If Richardson is sidelined, the Colts will turn to Joe Flacco, who has proven to be a capable backup this season. In four starts earlier in the year, Flacco posted:
- Completion Rate: 66.5%
- Passing Yards: 1,167
- Touchdowns: 9
- Interceptions: 5
- Record as Starter: 1-3
Two of Flacco’s losses came against playoff-bound teams (Minnesota Vikings and Buffalo Bills), showcasing his ability to compete against high-level opponents.
Sunday’s Stakes
With the Giants already out of playoff contention, the Colts will look to take advantage of the matchup while keeping a close eye on Richardson’s recovery. Whether it’s Richardson or Flacco under center, Indianapolis needs a win to keep their slim playoff hopes alive.
The next 48 hours will be crucial in determining who leads the Colts’ offense in this must-win game.
