INDIANAPOLIS — Joe Flacco stepped up for the Indianapolis Colts in relief of the injured Anthony Richardson, leading the team to a 27-24 victory over the previously unbeaten Pittsburgh Steelers. The 39-year-old veteran quarterback completed 16 of 26 passes for 168 yards and threw two touchdown passes, demonstrating his ability to perform under pressure.
Flacco, who was once named Super Bowl MVP and had a successful career with the Baltimore Ravens, kept his approach straightforward. “You just see the guy and hit him. That’s all you do,” Flacco said, emphasizing his no-nonsense mentality. The Colts, now 2-2, celebrated their second consecutive win and have now achieved two straight victories over the Steelers, who dropped to 3-1 after this defeat.
Richardson encountered multiple injuries during the game, leaving the field twice—once from a hit to his right hip and later after a hard hit to the head. Following his second exit, he was ruled out for the remainder of the game. Colts coach Shane Steichen did not provide updates on Richardson’s condition or on running back Jonathan Taylor, who also sustained an ankle injury late in the game.
Despite Richardson’s struggles, Flacco built on the momentum the Colts established early on. He connected with Michael Pittman Jr. six times for 113 yards and threw touchdown passes to both Josh Downs and Drew Ogletree. Taylor contributed significantly as well, rushing for 88 yards on 21 attempts and scoring a touchdown on Indianapolis’s opening drive.
The Steelers, despite their usually strong defense, allowed a season-high in points. Quarterback Justin Fields managed to keep Pittsburgh competitive, throwing a touchdown pass to Pat Freiermuth and running for two scores himself. However, the team’s final possession was marred by a botched snap that cost them crucial yards and ended their chances for a comeback.
Fields completed 22 of 34 passes for 312 yards, but he was also sacked four times and lost a fumble, contributing to the Steelers’ turnovers. After the game, he took responsibility for the miscommunication that derailed the team’s last drive.
Richardson’s initial performance set the tone for the Colts, as he completed a 32-yard pass on the game’s first play and led the team to an early touchdown. However, his inability to finish the game marked the fourth time in eight career starts that he has not completed a contest.
Flacco proved vital in critical moments, particularly when he guided the Colts on a 10-play, 54-yard drive, resulting in a field goal that gave them a 27-17 lead. Although Fields responded with another touchdown, the Colts’ defense held firm to secure the win.
On the injury front, the Steelers reported that right guard James Daniels, running back Cordarrelle Patterson, and linebacker Nick Herbig sustained ankle injuries during the game, with Patterson requiring a cart to the locker room. The Colts were without three starters: cornerback Kenny Moore II, defensive end Kwity Paye, and center Ryan Kelly.
Looking ahead, the Steelers will host the Dallas Cowboys next Sunday night, while the Colts will travel to Jacksonville for their upcoming game.