Change is a given in the NFL. And the latest moves by the Indianapolis Colts? Well, they are definitely set to shake things up. As the season progresses, decisions will be made. The question is whether they will make or break a team’s playoff run. This time, it’s all about who’s under center for the Colts. Now, isn’t that insane?

The Indianapolis Colts are back in the spotlight. Thanks to head coach Shane Steichen‘s announcement of a surprising quarterback swap. Anthony Richardson is back in as the starter, taking over from Joe Flacco. After giving Flacco a shot, which resulted in a couple of tough losses and six turnovers, it’s clear that the Colts are ready to pivot. Steichen initially praised Flacco’s experience when making the switch, stating that “Joe gives us the best chance to win.” But two losses later? It’s Richardson’s time again!

Flacco’s competitive spirit shines through his response, especially with his acknowledgment. “I wanted to provide a spark and get some wins.” However, he didn’t deliver that in his latest outings, which left him feeling “obviously disappointed!” 

Even Richardson took his benching with grace, citing the opportunity to learn during the two weeks he spent watching from the sidelines. “I’m willing to sacrifice anything for the team… Sitting on the sideline allowed me to look deeper and see what I’m made of,” he expressed. This time off might just be the catalyst he needs to step up. 

With the Colts currently sitting at 4-6, just a game shy of the final AFC wild-card spot, Richardson must improve from a 44.4% completion rate and tackle those seven interceptions if he hopes to steer the Colts toward the playoffs.

For Joe Flacco, getting benched is a tough pill to swallow. He voiced his disappointment candidly, emphasizing the importance of focusing on the present. “You have to focus on the week that you’re in and the day that you’re in,” he stated. That goes to reiterating what he believes is essential for success in the league. 

Critics’ reaction and future implications for Flacco

Time for critics to chime in. Among them is former NFL player Emmanuel Acho. He didn’t pull any punches on Twitter, labeling the move as “stupidity” and an “impulse decision.” “To me, it looks like a coach who had no idea about what was coming around the corner,” he argued, questioning why the Colts would return to Richardson after two losses against formidable opponents like the Vikings and Bills. These teams are “seven and two” and “eight and two,” respectively. His sharp critique highlights the scrutiny surrounding the Colts’ coaching staff, especially as time is running out for their playoff hopes.

This benching raises a bunch of questions about Flacco’s future. At 39, his window for starting roles is closing fast. After a shaky pair of games, he remains realistic, accepting that “any time you come into this league, you have things to learn,” while also acknowledging that Richardson has “done a great job of keeping his head on the right way” and displaying resilience during this tumultuous period. Flacco’s experience is undeniable, but can it translate to more opportunities as younger quarterbacks like Richardson get their chance to shine? 

The Colts’ changing quarterback situation underscores the tough decisions teams face every week. Steichen seems to believe in Richardson’s upside, while his critics, like Acho, feel the coaching staff might not be thinking long-term. “Clearly losing to the Bills is acceptable. Losing to the Vikings is acceptable,” Acho pointed out, suggesting that the coaching decisions appear reactionary rather than strategic.

The shift back to Anthony Richardson as the starting quarterback for the Indianapolis Colts could be a significant turning point in their season. With racing stakes and tight playoff hopes, Richardson will have to deliver. With the Colts gearing up for the upcoming games, their playoff aspirations will hinge on how well Richardson can elevate his game.