Veteran quarterback Joe Flacco is set to lead the Indianapolis Colts against the New York Giants this Sunday, stepping up after rookie Anthony Richardson was ruled out due to injuries. Flacco, 39 years old and with vast experience, will take charge of the Colts' offense as they strive to keep their playoff aspirations alive.
Richardson, who had been anticipated to start, faced back and foot injuries leading up to the Week 17 matchup. His troubles kept him off the practice field all week, prompting head coach Shane Steichen to approach the situation with caution. "He’s been really sore all week," Steichen confirmed, explaining their decision to rest the rookie. Richardson has missed several games this season, showcasing how injury-prone his first season has been.
This will mark Flacco's fifth start of the year. The seasoned signal-caller, who previously threw for nine touchdowns and five interceptions this season, has encountered challenges. The Colts are 1-3 with Flacco at the helm, emphasizing the team's struggles when he steps on the field. Previously, when Flacco filled in for Richardson during earlier injuries, the team's offensive struggles were evident.
Giants head coach Brian Daboll had high praise for Richardson, remarking, "He's got all the skill set in the world. Again, he’s a dual-threat player and he can affect any part of the field." With Richardson sidelined, the Giants will be relieved from facing this threat.
Flacco's time with the Colts has been anything but smooth sailing. Initially joining the team as Richardson's backup, he found himself thrust back between starting and the bench multiple times due to various injuries and Richardson's form. "I think we’re going to just see how these next couple days play out," Flacco noted about his preparation for the game.
The Colts' playoff hopes hinge on multiple scenarios this weekend, including the performance of other teams. They need victories from both the Denver Broncos and Los Angeles Chargers to keep their postseason hopes alive. Alternatively, the Colts must secure victory against the Giants to remain relevant for the chance at competing for the playoffs next week.
Flacco is no stranger to high-pressure situations, having won Super Bowl XLVII with the Baltimore Ravens. He brings his vast experience and poise to this must-win game, both for the team and his own career aspirations. "Listen, this is our profession so it shouldn't matter," Flacco stated about the pressures of must-win games. "Whenever you get a chance to play games this late in the season, it definitely is good for the whole process of it."
Reflecting on the situation, Flacco acknowledged the rollercoaster nature of being both the starter and the backup. "You have to trick yourself a little bit and just rolling with the punches and seeing where those take you," he shared. This season has been full of ups and downs for both him and the organization, which has seen its share of quarterback drama.
Heading to MetLife Stadium, the Colts will rely on Flacco’s experience and steadiness to navigate through what promises to be a tightly contested game. With so much at stake, including the potential end to their playoff dreams, every player will be called to deliver their best performance.
Flacco understands the privilege of playing, especially at this stage of the season, where every game carries significant weight. "You can't take for granted playing football games in this league. Whenever you get the opportunity to do it, you have to put yourself back in your shoes when you were 20 years old wishing to play this game. You have to remind yourself, 'Man, I'm getting a chance to play out my dream.'" This perspective will be key as he queues up for one of the most important games of his season.
Flacco's challenge will be to not only lead effectively but to instill confidence within his teammates, particularly against strong defensive units like the Giants. The Colts need Flacco to deliver under pressure and contribute positively to the offense as they strive to secure the victory and keep their season alive. With high expectations, the showdown promises to provide thrills and challenges as Indianapolis seeks to finish the season strong.