For the second time in three weeks, Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson orchestrated a game-winning drive, this time to defeat the New England Patriots in the final seconds.
Two weeks ago, when facing the New York Jets, Richardson and the Colts’ offense overcame an eight-point fourth quarter deficit, scoring touchdowns on their final two possessions of the game to come away with the win.
This time, the Colts found themselves down by seven points with 5:30 left in the game. Beginning on their own 20-yard line, Richardson did a little bit of everything as the offense put together a 19-play drive that culminated with a touchdown pass from the second-year quarterback.
On that final possession, Richardson was 6-for-11 passing, and overcame two critical drops. He carried the ball when needed, and helped the offense convert three fourth downs, including on the touchdown pass to Alec Pierce.
“He’s a superstar in the making,” said Zaire Franklin after the game.
An extra point would have tied the game, but Shane Steichen wasn’t looking to go to overtime. So instead, the Colts went for two and the win.
Lined up in shotgun from the two-yard line, Richardson faked the handoff to Jonathan Taylor who was lined up to his left and running to the right. But Richardson likely never had any intention of handing the ball off. Rather he pummeled his way into the end zone.
“Put it in 5’s hands and let him go make a play,” said Steichen after the game.
For much of the game–and even on that final possession–the Colts were able to lean on their run game, which found some success after several quiet weeks, and provided needed stability to the offense.
Between Richardson and Taylor, the two carried the ball 34 times in this game, totaling 144 yards at 4.2 yards per attempt.
Overall, it wasn’t a clean game for the Colts’ passing attack. Richardson threw two interceptions, with the unit appearing out of rhythm for three-plus quarters. However, no one is going to remember that.
What is going to be remembered is that when the game–and really, the Colts entire season–was on the line and mattered most, Richardson would come through in the clutch–again.
(This article was updated to provide additional information.)
