The Colts’ QB saga’s heating up like a chili cook-off in the summer! With Anthony Richardson recovering from an injury, we’re all left wondering if he’ll be back under center or if Joe Flacco will strut his stuff as QB1.

In a juicy tweet, NFL insider Adam Schefter dropped some info: Colts’ HC Shane Steichen confirmed that Richardson will likely practice in full today after an oblique injury. 

“Colts HC Shane Steichen told reporters that QB Anthony Richardson, who missed last week’s game with an oblique injury, likely will practice in full today,” Schefter’s tweet read. But before you break out the confetti, it’s worth noting that Indianapolis is playing it real smart. They’re not risking their rookie’s health. 

Richardson’s absence has been felt. His potential was on full display before the injury—and while he thought he’d be back slinging TDs against Tennessee, the team had other plans. 

After a breakthrough workout last week, the 22-year-old was optimistic, but the Colts decided to keep him sidelined one more week to ensure he’s at 100%. “We wanted to make sure he was 100%,” Steichen said. “That’s really what went into the decision. He’s really close. That’s why he had him as our third, emergency quarterback, but he should be looking really good this week.”

Meanwhile, Joe Flacco (with one-year, $4M contract) has stepped into the spotlight. His veteran vibes have Colts fans rallying behind him. 

Joe Flacco shines, but Anthony Richardson’s shadow looms

Thrust into the spotlight mid-game against Pittsburgh, the veteran QB’s been phenomenal. He’s flung seven TDs and only one pick—with a slick 102.2 QB rating. Completing 65.7% of his passes, Flacco’s driven Indianapolis to two wins—including the 20-17 victory over the Titans. “Flacco’s a really good player; he’s been playing good ball for us,” said HC Steichen. 

Now, don’t get it twisted—while the 39-year-old was great, he didn’t have the same impact as the team’s rookie. Having averaged a modest 6.6 yds per attempt, the Colts’ offense hit some flat spells—missing the explosive spark that Richardson brings. The running game’s felt the pinch too, lacking that dual-threat edge that keeps defenses guessing.

Flacco’s unexpected rise to QB1 has stirred up the pot about the Colts’ future. When asked about his role and chats with Richardson, he kept it straight: “I know what my role is, and my role is to go out there and be prepared at all times.” That kind of locker room mentality’s vital as the team gears up for a playoff run.

As Anthony Richardson inches closer to a return, the drama in Indianapolis heats up. The stage’s set for an epic showdown as both QBs eye the limelight!