Signs often emerge when teams find themselves struggling. Players may share ambiguous posts on social media, while coaches tend to resort to buzzwords, repeating them in a bid to maintain morale.
The Indianapolis Colts are currently experiencing difficulties after their 21-13 defeat to the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday night. The game was riddled with puzzling decisions.
Joe Flacco started in place of the benched second-year quarterback Anthony Richardson, and even though the veteran had a rough outing, Richardson did not see the field again.
Although Flacco’s performance was not unexpected, the handling of star running back Jonathan Taylor was surprising. In critical moments during the fourth quarter, particularly on third and fourth downs, Taylor found himself on the sidelines while backup Trey Sermon took snaps.
Additionally, the offensive line struggled to protect Flacco late in the game, yet head coach Shane Steichen opted against bringing in the more mobile quarterback who might have evaded potential sacks.
With two consecutive losses under their belt, the Colts will be preparing to host the Bills next week. Following the game, Steichen addressed the media. After the loss to the Vikings, Steichen consistently accepted responsibility for the defeat, reiterating this sentiment throughout his press conference.
He also discussed the upcoming game plan, noting that the Colts will face the Bills next week, followed by matches against the Jets, Lions, and Patriots, leading up to a bye week in Week 14. Reports suggested that Richardson’s benching was not intended as a short-term solution.
Despite the apparent need for mobility in the game plan, Steichen affirmed his belief in Flacco, reaffirming that the veteran would remain the starting quarterback moving forward. Concerns about Shane Steichen’s job security have surfaced. Although the Colts remain in the playoff hunt, the pressure is mounting on the second-year coach.
While a 4-3 record isn’t stellar, it certainly appears more favorable than a 4-5 standing. The Colts recently lost a close game to the Texans by three points, followed by an eight-point defeat to the Vikings.
Had the veteran quarterback adapted to the offense and effectively utilized Jonathan Taylor, a win was within reach. Instead, the team failed to score a single offensive touchdown.
Even if the front office is not contemplating a coaching change, the fanbase is starting to voice their discontent. Whether it’s regarding the quarterback situation, Taylor’s absence during critical plays, or the loss itself, public sentiment is shifting against Steichen.
There remain ample opportunities for Steichen and the Colts to reverse their fortunes. However, if Anthony Richardson does not return to the field and the Colts finish below .500 with a mediocre draft pick, the season will likely feel like a huge setback. This scenario could spell trouble for Steichen as “Black Monday” looms after Week 18.