There’s a reason that “Any given Sunday” is a cliche — because it’s true. One thing you would NOT expect is for the Indianapolis Colts with backup quarterback Gardner Minshew to be taking it to the Cleveland Browns’ NFL-best defense. But that’s exactly what’s happened early on.
First with 11:38 left in the first quarter, there was this 59-yard touchdown pass to Josh Downs in which the Browns were offside, Minshew had a free play, and he perfectly exploited Cleveland’s coverage for the big play on a post/wheel concept.
Minshew capitalizes on the free play 🔥
📺: #CLEvsIND on CBS
📱: Stream on #NFLPlus https://t.co/iTs8HMaXlh pic.twitter.com/n4GxJRbZhK— NFL (@NFL) October 22, 2023
Then, with 4:28 left in the first quarter, Minshew took off himself, took advantage of a bad angle by safety Grant Delpit (who’s usually awesome), and trucked in for a 17-yard touchdown run.
Gardner Minshew just shook out everyone in Lucas Oil Stadium.
📺 CBS pic.twitter.com/P17wSrcJjN
— Indianapolis Colts (@Colts) October 22, 2023
Not a bad early result as the Colts have lost Anthony Richardson for the rest of the season with a Grade 3 AC joint sprain in his right (throwing) shoulder.
