Indianapolis Rookie QB Richardson Impresses in Preseason Win Over Eagles
In an exciting preseason finale, rookie quarterback Anthony Richardson showcased both promise and areas for improvement as he led the Indianapolis Colts to a 27-13 victory over the Philadelphia Eagles. Richardson, the No. 4 overall pick out of Florida, was named the starter after the team’s preseason opener against the Buffalo Bills.
Standing tall at 6-foot-4, Richardson completed 6 of 17 passes for 78 yards and added 38 rushing yards on five carries in the first half. Although he displayed flashes of greatness, Richardson also had a few off-target throws that sailed high. However, new Colts coach Shane Steichen expressed satisfaction with Richardson’s performance, stating that he did a solid job overall.
One particular highlight came on the Colts’ fourth drive, where Richardson made an excellent throw to Kylen Granson for a 17-yard gain. Steichen praised Richardson for putting the ball where only Granson could catch it. Despite a few missed throws and drops from the team, Richardson remains committed to improving and finding synergy with his teammates.
Richardson also made a lighthearted gesture that ruffled some feathers among Eagles fans. After scoring a touchdown, he celebrated by flapping his arms like a bird. When asked about it, Richardson clarified that he was just having fun and hopes nobody misinterprets his gesture.
Meanwhile, the Eagles opted to rest their starters, including quarterback Jalen Hurts, who has shown growth under Colts coach Steichen during his time as the Eagles’ offensive coordinator. Instead, backup quarterback Marcus Mariota took the field and completed 1 of 2 passes for 21 yards in one series. However, Mariota struggled throughout the preseason and finished with 17 completions on 30 attempts for 164 yards, an interception, and four sacks.
Looking ahead, both teams will now focus on finalizing their 53-man rosters as the regular season approaches. Eagles coach Nick Sirianni acknowledged the difficulty of having to cut players who have contributed to the team’s culture over the past four months. Despite these tough decisions, he remains optimistic about the special individuals within the team.
As for the Colts, they still await the return of star running back Jonathan Taylor, who is currently in a contractual standoff with the club. Taylor, the 2021 rushing champion, is seeking a contract extension or a potential trade. Although he did not participate in training camp, Taylor traveled with the team to Philadelphia, signaling the ongoing negotiations between the two parties.
In other notable moments, Eagles kicker Jake Elliott showcased his impressive leg strength by making field goals from 59 and 52 yards. Additionally, the Eagles signed backup offensive lineman Fred Johnson to a two-year contract before the game.
Both teams now shift their focus to the regular season. The Colts will open their campaign on September 10 at home against the Jacksonville Jaguars, while the Eagles begin their NFC title defense against the New England Patriots on the same day. As the preseason comes to a close, fans eagerly anticipate the start of the 2023 NFL season.
