The Indianapolis Colts' offense struggled mightily during their Week 9 loss against the Minnesota Vikings, prompting fans to wonder whether declaring Joe Flacco the starter over Anthony Richardson was truly the best move for the franchise.
With Richardson, the organization's first-round pick just two years ago, watching from the sidelines, the Colts failed to score a single point on offense. Their 13 points in the 21–13 defeat came via a defensive touchdown and two Matt Gay field goals. Flacco was far from at his best, throwing for 179 yards and no touchdowns alongside one interception while also losing a fumble. It was his fewest passing yards in a game he's started this season.
Richardson had also struggled prior to his demotion from the starting role, but it's entirely reasonable to believe that he could have provided Indianapolis's offense with as much if not more than what Flacco brought to the table on Sunday night.
Many NFL fans seemed to feel that way, and they voiced their criticisms over coach Shane Steichen's decision to roll with the 39-year-old rather than continuing to develop the franchise's 22-year-old gunslinger.
It's a good thing the Colts didn't let Anthony Richardson embarrass himself on national television against Brian Flores and the Vikings defense. Imagine if he wasn't able to score a touchdown tonight or something.
— Benjamin Solak (@BenjaminSolak) November 4, 2024
Alright Colts, point proven. Start Anthony Richardson.
— Robert Griffin III (@RGIII) November 4, 2024
Whoever truly made the decision to bench Anthony Richardson better be held accountable
— Logan (@SconnieColt) November 4, 2024
so glad they benched anthony richardson for zero offensive points
— Josh Norris (@JoshNorris) November 4, 2024
Remember folks, the Anthony Richardson benching has nothing to do with his play off, it’s because Joe Flacco gives this team ‘the best chance to win.’
— Noah Compton (@nerlens_) November 4, 2024
Head Coach Shane Steichen’s words, not mine.
Anthony.
— Jeremiah (@ColtsTopic) November 4, 2024
Richardson.
Did.
Not.
Deserve.
To.
Be.
Benched.
Period.
With the offense not showing any signs of improvement under Flacco in Week 9, the team could face further scrutiny over the decision to bench Richardson if things don't trend upward in Week 10 when the Colts take on the Buffalo Bills.
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This article was originally published on www.si.com as Colts' Decision to Bench Anthony Richardson Questioned After Joe Flacco Struggles.
