Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson will get the start on Sunday against the Miami Dolphins, according to head coach Shane Steichen after Friday’s practice.
Richardson “will be ready to roll,” as Steichen put it.
All week, this seemed to be the expectation, with Steichen mentioning on Monday that this was the plan, barring a setback for Richardson.
This will be Richardson’s first game since suffering the oblique injury in the first half of Indianapolis’ Week 4 matchup with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Richardson sustained the injury while taking a hit to the hip area while running with the ball.
After being limited in five of the six practices over the previous two weeks, Richardson was a full participant each day this week.
While Joe Flacco has led the offense well in Richardson’s absence, Steichen has made clear from the start that the starting job belongs to Richardson.
Prior to exiting the Pittsburgh game, Richardson was off to a fast start, completing 3-of-4 passes for 71 yards, including completions of 28 yards and 32 yards to Michael Pittman that sparked two touchdown drives.
The Colts offense has been one of the best at generating explosive plays this season, but where more consistency is needed is on the short to intermediate throws to help sustain drives. In many instances, it’s been very boom-or-bust for the offense.
This week, Richardson and the passing game will be up against a Dolphins pass defense that has been one of the better units this season. Getting the run game going will be crucial.
Although still without Jonathan Taylor, having Richardson back should provide the run game with a boost, not only because of his ability as a ball carrier but defenses can’t defend the Colts’ running backs as aggressively when he’s under center.