The Indianapolis Colts may be under .500 with a 7-8 record, but entering NFL Week 17 they still had an outside shot of making the playoffs.
Week 16 broke right for the Colts as the Denver Broncos lost to the Los Angeles Chargers and the Houston Texans lost to the Kansas City Chiefs.
While the Colts’ odds of qualifying are still quite low, Indianapolis at least has a reason to win its last couple of games.
Quarterback Anthony Richardson has looked better on the field since being benched by head coach Shane Steichen.
The second-year player remains a work in progress as a passer, but his rushing ability gives him opportunities to extend plays and move the chains.
Unfortunately, it appears Richardson will be sidelined for their upcoming game against the New York Giants.
“Colts QB Anthony Richardson (back/foot) has been downgraded to out, Joe Flacco will start Week 17 vs. Giants,” the NFL wrote on X.
Colts QB Anthony Richardson (back/foot) has been downgraded to out, Joe Flacco will start Week 17 vs. Giants. pic.twitter.com/Ihd4FlPUSy
— NFL (@NFL) December 28, 2024
Flacco has been solid taking over for Richardson, although the veteran started to show signs of wear and tear at times.
He has been more willing than Richardson to let the football fly through the air and give his receivers more opportunities to make plays, but that shouldn’t be necessary against an awful Giants team.
Even with Flacco under center, the Colts can simply run the football with Jonathan Taylor and win the game relatively easily.
Richardson’s status for the regular season finale against the Jacksonville Jaguars is unknown, but those would be valuable reps whether the Colts remain in contention or not.
NEXT: Colts Announce Roster Move On Thursday
