Struggling with a familiar issue, the Indianapolis Colts experienced another rough start to their season with a 29-27 loss to the Houston Texans in Week 1 of 2024. This defeat continues a troubling pattern for the team, as they have not won their season opener for 11 consecutive years, a trend that began following Andrew Luck’s retirement.
Since Luck’s departure in 2019, the Colts have faced instability at the quarterback position, cycling through 10 different starters, including remarkable names like Matt Ryan, Philip Rivers, and Jacoby Brissett. Despite these changes, the team has struggled to find the right leader for the offense.
In a bid to turn things around, the Colts pinned their hopes on rookie quarterback Anthony Richardson, who showed potential in the 2023 season before an AC joint injury limited him to just four games. During his time on the field, Richardson impressed with 577 passing yards, three touchdowns, and four rushing scores.
With Richardson sidelined, Gardner Minshew II stepped up and delivered solid performances, earning a Pro Bowl selection with 3,305 yards, 15 touchdowns, and nine interceptions. As Minshew II has moved on to the Las Vegas Raiders, the Colts are now looking to Richardson to lead them forward. Fans will have to wait until the 2025 season schedule is released to see how the team progresses.
Despite the close contest, there were positive moments, such as Richardson’s impressive 60-yard pass to Alec Pierce. Richardson completed nine of 19 passes for 212 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception, while also adding 56 rushing yards and a touchdown. Head coach Shane Steichen noted that many games this season will be close and emphasized the importance of capitalizing on these opportunities.
However, the Texans emerged victorious, extending the Colts’ streak of failing to win their season opener to 11 years. As the team builds around Richardson, ending this streak will be essential for their future success.