The Indianapolis Colts’ backup quarterback competition went absolutely sideways on Saturday, hitting a new low in their 34-6 preseason beatdown by the Atlanta Falcons. It was such a rough showing that both Anthony Richardson Sr. and Riley Leonard landed themselves on CBS Sports’ list of NFL preseason Week 2 losers, and honestly, can you even blame them? CBS Sports didn’t pull any punches, noting bluntly that “The backup quarterback situation is pretty bleak.” If that doesn’t scream trouble, I don’t know what does.
Richardson Sr.’s Step Backward
Man, talk about a tough night for Anthony Richardson Sr. After what looked like a really efficient preseason opener, Saturday’s performance was a total face-plant. He got the nod for the second half, but the numbers tell a brutal story: just 3 of 9 passes completed for a measly 24 yards. Oh, and he ate two sacks, which nobody wants to see. Look, CBS Sports gave him some cover, acknowledging he was stuck behind a struggling offensive line and got little help from his pass catchers. But let’s be real, even with those excuses, it wasn’t the kind of showing that inspires confidence. Especially when you consider how he started the preseason against the New England Patriots. In that first game, Richardson looked sharp, completing 11 of 14 passes for 145 yards. He even added 53 rushing yards and punched in a touchdown. That’s the kind of play that gets you hyped, and to see him regress so much in Week 2? That’s gotta sting for the Colts.
Leonard’s Struggle Continues
It wasn’t just Richardson who struggled, though. Riley Leonard, who got the start on Saturday, didn’t exactly light it up either. He finished his outing completing 7 of 14 passes for 62 yards. When you’re trying to prove you’re the guy, those numbers just aren’t cutting it. Leonard’s preseason opener against the Patriots wasn’t exactly a masterpiece either, where he went 10 of 21 for 89 yards and threw an interception. These two guys have been battling it out all training camp, trying to prove who’s worthy of backing up Daniel Jones. But if Week 2 is any indication of the “quality” the Colts are getting at the position, well, it’s a serious red flag.
The clock is ticking for these QBs. With only one preseason game left on the schedule, Saturday’s dismal contest was a huge missed opportunity to shore up the backup position. The Colts desperately needed a strong performance to settle things down, but what they got instead was a major cause for concern. It’s go time, fellas, because right now, that QB room is looking mighty thin.
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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