The Colts are hanging by a thread in the playoff race, and just when they needed their rookie quarterback to lead the charge, things took a turn. With Week 17 looming, Indy fans are left with a big question: what’s going on with Anthony Richardson, and why isn’t he suiting up? It’s not the news anyone was expecting, but it could change everything for the Colts this Sunday. Let’s dive into what’s really happening behind the scenes.

The drama unfolded in Indianapolis this week as Anthony Richardson was officially ruled out for the Colts’ crucial Week 17 matchup against the Giants. With playoff hopes hanging by a thread, the rookie QB’s absence sent waves of disappointment through Colts fans. NFL insider Ian Rapoport provided clarity, tweeting, “The #Colts will start QB Joe Flacco Sunday, with Anthony Richardson battling back and foot soreness this week. He did not practice all week and has been downgraded to out.” Richardson’s lingering soreness kept him sidelined during practices, forcing the team to prioritize his long-term health over their immediate playoff aspirations.

The #Colts will start QB Joe Flacco Sunday, with Anthony Richardson battling back and foot soreness this week. He did not practice all week and has been downgraded to out. pic.twitter.com/OOS6FVxnXQ

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) December 28, 2024

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Joe Flacco, the 39-year-old with tons of experience under his belt, will replace the rookie quarterback. But let’s be real: He doesn’t bring the same fun that Richardson brings. Flacco signed with the Colts earlier this season and is just waiting around, waiting for his moment. Now, he’s got to be the knight in white armor to save the Colts. The next game is a must-win game against a Giants team. They have nothing to lose. So, the Colts need to step up if they want a swing in playoffs.

And while the rookie QB is out, the Giants are also dealing with issues as wide receiver Malik Nabers remains questionable due to injury, according to Giants Wire. While the stakes may seem higher for the Colts, the Giants will make things difficult for them, just like a raw steak. They are making this matchup anything but a cakewalk.

Richardson’s absence might feel like a setback, but the Colts’ decided to save the best for the last. They are holding onto him. With just 2 games left, everything needs to be onboard. Flacco’s steady presence will need to carry the team on Sunday. The blue crew can only hope the veteran still has a few tricks up his sleeve to keep their playoff hopes alive.

Colts lean on experience as QB heals up

This season for the Blue Crew and the Colts has been wild. Their playoff chances are less than 20%. Every game is a must-win. They need to bet everything they have on these 2 games. While it’s a tough break for fans not seeing Richardson on the field. Flacco might not play like Richardson, but he’s been around long enough to know what to do and don’t. He’s got the experience to help keep the offense running smoothly, even in a high-stakes situation like this.

The saga of Richardson’s injury began in Week 4 during the Colts’ game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Where he suffered an oblique injury. Which made him rest for 2 weeks. Since then, he’s been battling back and foot soreness, which has kept him out of recent games. While it’s disappointing, the Colts are doing the right thing by focusing on his long-term health.

Finally, the Colts are in a tough spot, but they can’t do anything about it. All they can do is hope no one gets injured in the Sunday game and hope for a strong finish.