We finally saw Superman in action, and unlike the comic hero, Anthony Richardson is the real deal. However, cracks in the foundation seeped through Richardson’s flash, causing concern for Colts fans looking to keep the future of their franchise in a stable environment while throwing the football. The Colts have a lot to work on, but there are signs of ability.
Colts Offense – Positives
Colts WR Josh Down (1) – Indianapolis Colts
The buzz around seeing Anothony Richardson take the field with meaningful defenders was deafening around Colts Nation. We finally got our wish, and he was good. Just good. Not great, but that should be expected from a 13-start college quarterback. He showed his ability to run through defenders like a hot knife through butter and delivered strikes to Kylen Granson and Isaih Mckenzie in multiple areas. If it weren’t for a drop by Alec Pierce, he would have had a touchdown to show for his effort, but the best part of Richardson’s performance was the way he responded to an early-game interception.
Richardson calmly ran off the field after owning his mistake and then proceeded to deliver strikes with zero hesitation and the poise of a swan on a glass lake. The man has a uniquely mature approach to the game of football, and that mental ability will be what makes him a great quarterback in the NFL.
Richardson wasn’t the only rookie Colt showing flashes; Josh Downs also made plays that impressed. Downs averaged 18 yards per kick return and corralled to passes for 29 yards. He’s got a shake and burst that will enhance his already polished route-running ability. Downs was the most impressive receiver for the Colts, who ran with potential starters, but Isaiah McKenzie also showed flash and a veteran calm that Richardson found for easy completions. I predicted McKenzie would get cut to make room for young guys like Downs, but with his performance and reliability, I may be eating my words.
Colts Offense – Negatives
The offensive line was about as helpful as a hole in your gas tank, it sucks, and someone is bound to get hurt. That may be harsh, but it can’t be denied that Minshew was sacked on his very first TWO plays in the game. The Colts got stuffed TWICE on fourth down, and even when the backs had a nice run, it wasn’t because of great blocking! Ballard needs to be looking for depth and possibly a guy to slide into the right guard spot to stop the leaks pouring through to the backfield.
Colts Defense – Positives
Colts CB Darius Rush (30) – Indianapolis Colts
Shaq is back! Shaquille Leonard being physically healthy enough to take snaps in a full-contact live preseason game is great news. He didn’t record any tackles and admitted this is a step in the right direction, but that step is huge if it means having the defensive leader back on the field.
Darius Rush grabbed himself a pick-six in his first-ever NFL action, which can only boost that young man’s confidence heading into his rookie season. The most impressive part of his interception was the positioning he fought for by jumping the bubble route. If The receiver had caught the ball, Rush was in the perfect position to lay the hot stick and send a message.
Speaking of laying the hit stick, Grant Stuard is an animal. His fire mane bursting out the back of his helmet is flying around the field, crashing into whatever it can find, which is excellent news for the Colts’ special teams. Stuard has shown steady progress throughout camp and may find himself getting defensive snaps if he keeps it rolling.
Colts Defense – Negatives
The Colts run defense was making James Cook look much better than he actually is. Granted, it’s preseason, and guys are still getting their feet under them, but it would have been great to see the defensive line show some fortitude when it comes to stopping or even slowing down the run game. It’s an issue that will be fixed, but it was not awesome against the Bills.
JuJu Brents showed a lack of speed while in coverage, which is likely due to missing time with injuries. Having him in camp, running, and learning with fellow rookies will make his understanding of the game playable. He has all the attributes, but Shakir from the Bills’ receiving core had him looking flat-footed and soft in coverage.
Looking toward the Colts’ next preseason game against the Bears, expect Richardson to improve his pocket mechanics and timing working with certain receivers. Most importantly, Tony Sporano Jr. has to get in the lab with the offensive line and begin to work his coaching magic on them, or it could spell doom for a young quarterback.
