Spencer Shrader just cranked up the pressure cooker in the Indianapolis Colts’ kicking competition, going a perfect 2-for-2 on field goals against the Atlanta Falcons on Saturday. He nailed kicks from 48 and 53 yards, showing some serious range and clutch factor when it absolutely mattered.
Shrader’s Leg Is on Fire Right Now
Shrader isn’t just hot, he’s absolutely scorching the preseason. He’s perfect across all games, a clean slate of makes that’s impossible to ignore. Remember the opener against the New England Patriots? Yeah, he drilled a massive 61-yard field goal in that one, securing a 13-13 tie. This dude has responded incredibly well under game conditions so far, proving he can deliver when the spotlight is blinding. Last season, before tearing his ACL in Week 5, Shrader was money, connecting on 13 of 14 field-goal attempts. He looks like he’s back and firing on all cylinders.
Grupe’s Misses Are Getting Hard to Ignore
On the flip side, Blake Grupe had a rough outing against the Falcons. His only attempt, a 36-yarder, went wide right. It’s his second miss of the preseason, which, when you’re battling for a job, is a tough pill to swallow. While Grupe has been reportedly more steady in practice, those game-day misses are starting to stack up against Shrader’s perfection. It’s wild because Grupe actually joined the Colts after Shrader’s injury last season and went 11-for-11 on field goals over the final five games, even kicking a franchise-record 60-yarder. He clearly has the talent, but the preseason misses are a huge red flag.
This Coaching Staff Has a Nightmare Choice Ahead
Colts head coach Shane Steichen isn’t sugarcoating it. After the game, he told WISH-TV that it’s going to be a “big decision for us,” adding that “Both of those guys are starting kickers in this league.” That’s high praise, but it also shows the headache this competition is causing. Roster decisions are looming, and this isn’t just about a backup spot, it’s about who kicks when the games count. Steichen and special teams coordinator Brian Mason have one more chance to see these guys under pressure. Indianapolis closes out the preseason on August 29 against the Detroit Lions. Every single kick in that game will be watched with white knuckles. Get ready, because this battle isn’t over yet!
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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