Anthony Richardson got the ultimate redemption Sunday in MetLife Stadium.
In his first game back since being benched, Richardson spearheaded a dramatic back-and-forth 28-27 win over the Jets to keep Indy’s playoff hopes alive.
Richardson said Sunday was the most relaxed he’s been coming into an NFL start, and it showed. He finished 20-for-30 for 272 yards and three total touchdowns. His 66.7% completion percentage and passing yardage were both season-highs for the 22-year-old.
“I told him ‘phenomenal job,’” head coach Shane Steichen said after the game. “‘Keep it going…if you keep doing what you’re doing, it’s going to be special.’”
Sunday’s win was an exact example of the quarterback the Colts think Richardson can be, using both his arms and legs to move down the field and get into the end zone.
The offense got off to a flying start, jumping out to a 13-0 lead in the first half. While Richardson was undoubtedly key to the victory, Steichen gave defensive coordinator Gus Bradley his flowers after the game.
“I want to credit our defense,” head coach Shane Steichen said in his post game press conference. “That first half was lights out.”
The defense was as good as they’ve been all season, frustrating the Jets offense. New York wouldn’t pick up a first down until 1:30 to play in the first half.
But the momentum quickly shifted, and the game became a tale of two halves in a flash.
On the same drive of their first, first down, the Jets would snag a touchdown to go into halftime down 13-7. They would start the second half by strip-sacking Richardson before Breece Hall scampered in for a 14-13 lead.
However, for every jab the Jets threw his way, Richardson punched right back. Down eight with 13:03 left to play, he orchestrated an efficient, eight-play drive to pull within two after a failed two-point attempt.
Despite struggling in the second half, particularly on third down, the Colts defense came up with a crucial stop, forcing a field goal. They left Richardson a golden opportunity to lead a game-winning drive.
And that he did.
With 0:46 left to play, Richardson rushed towards the front left pylon, lowered his shoulder into Jets CB DJ Reed, and trucked across the goal line for the go-ahead score. Kwity Paye would get the walk-off sack on Aaron Rodgers, completing the comeback for Indy.
The Colts needed a win to stay afloat in the playoff race, and they got it. More importantly, Anthony Richardson needed it for his confidence.
“The way he battled today was phenomenal,” Steichen said.
Despite winning Sunday, Indianapolis remains a place out of a playoff spot in the AFC. The toughest test of their season awaits next week with the NFC-leading Detroit Lions paying a visit to Lucas Oil Stadium.
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