The Indianapolis Colts’ decision to bench young quarterback Anthony Richardson in favor of veteran Joe Flacco backfired spectacularly, as the Colts’ offense stumbled to its worst performance of the season in a 21-13 loss to the Minnesota Vikings.
Heading into the game, Colts head coach Shane Steichen had insisted that Flacco “gives us the best chance to win right now.” However, Flacco struggled mightily, completing just 16 of 27 passes for 179 yards with one interception, as the Colts managed season lows in points (13), yards (227), and first downs (13).
“You know, coming in here against a team like that, it’s going to be difficult,” a dejected Flacco said after the game. “But I don’t think you ever anticipate something like that.”
The Colts’ offensive woes overshadowed a strong defensive effort that forced three turnovers, including a fumble return touchdown by Kenny Moore II. But it was not enough to overcome the ineptitude of the Colts’ attack.
Steichen maintained that Flacco will remain the Colts’ starting quarterback, but the decision to bench the dynamic Richardson in favor of the 39-year-old Flacco is already facing intense scrutiny.
“Right now, yes,” Steichen replied when asked if Flacco is still his starter, though he acknowledged the need to reevaluate the team’s offensive approach. “I’ve got to keep looking at what we’re doing offensively,” Steichen said. “We have eight [games] left, and I’ve got to look at scheme stuff and see what we’re doing and go from there.”
The contrast between Flacco’s lackluster performance and Richardson’s previous displays was stark. While Richardson has occasionally struggled with accuracy, he has demonstrated the ability to make explosive plays both through the air and on the ground—attributes that the Vikings sorely missed. “It definitely changes up the plays that we run,” Colts wide receiver Alec Pierce said. “We’re not doing as many [run-pass option] types of things.”
With the Colts now sitting at 4-5 on the season, the pressure is mounting on Steichen to justify his decision and get the offense back on track. The team’s next opponent, the Buffalo Bills, will provide another stern test for Flacco and the Colts’ coaching staff. The Colts will continue to debate the decision to bench the promising Richardson in favor of the veteran Flacco, particularly if Flacco’s leadership causes the offense to falter.