Colts coach hints at big change for Week 9

Aug 12, 2023; Orchard Park, New York, USA; Indianapolis Colts head coach Shane Steichen looks to the scoreboard in the third quarter against the Buffalo Bills at Highmark Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark Konezny-USA TODAY Sports

Indianapolis Colts coach Shane Steichen hinted at a possible quarterback change Monday after Anthony Richardson struggled against the Houston Texans.

Steichen was asked Monday if Richardson would remain the team’s starter heading into their Week 9 game against the Minnesota Vikings. The coach initially avoided the question, then said the coaching staff was “evaluating everything.”

Just asked Colts coach Shane Steichen if QB Anthony Richardson is starting Sunday. He didn't answer it the first time. Second time:

"We are evaluating everything."

— Gregg Doyel (@GreggDoyelStar) October 28, 2024

That is not exactly a ringing endorsement of Richardson, and it certainly suggests a change to Joe Flacco is at least being considered.

Richardson did not have a day to remember Sunday against the Texans. He went just 10/32 for 175 yards with a touchdown and an interception. He also received criticism for asking out of the game in a key spot late in the third quarter for a reason that did not fly with a lot of people.

Flacco played three games earlier in the season while Richardson was hurt. The Colts went 1-1 in his starts, but he also won the game in which he replaced Richardson and generally outperformed the second-year pro in the passing department. The Colts are 4-4 and still have plenty to play for, so if they want to actually contend for the playoffs, Flacco is likely the right play at this point.