INDIANAPOLIS — Joe Flacco stepped in to take over for the injured Anthony Richardson, leading the Indianapolis Colts to a 27-24 victory over the previously unbeaten Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday. The 39-year-old veteran quarterback threw two touchdown passes and successfully managed the game, particularly in the crucial final moments.
Flacco completed 16 of 26 passes for 168 yards, emphasizing a straightforward approach to the game. “You just see the guy and hit him. That’s all you do,” he said. He was formerly a Super Bowl MVP and had a strong season with the Cleveland Browns last year, proving he could still perform at a high level.
Richardson left the game twice due to injuries—a significant hit to his right hip and another to the head during designed runs. He was ultimately ruled out after heading back to the locker room. Coach Shane Steichen provided no immediate updates on Richardson’s condition or that of running back Jonathan Taylor, who also sustained an ankle injury late in the game.
Flacco played a pivotal role in the Colts’ second consecutive win, connecting with Michael Pittman Jr. for six receptions totaling 113 yards. He threw a 2-yard touchdown pass to Josh Downs and a 15-yard touchdown to Drew Ogletree. Taylor contributed with a strong performance, running for 88 yards on 21 carries and scoring the Colts’ first touchdown.
The Steelers, who came in with a strong defense, allowed the highest score of the season, breaking their six-game regular-season winning streak. Justin Fields had a solid game for Pittsburgh, throwing for 312 yards and rushing for two scores, but the team struggled late when a crucial botched snap resulted in a loss on their final drive.
Fields accepted responsibility for the mishap, expressing that he needed to be more prepared for the snap during high-pressure moments.
Richardson had a promising start, completing a 32-yard pass right off the bat, and Taylor’s opening touchdown put the Colts ahead. However, this marked the fourth time in eight career starts that Richardson was unable to finish a game.
Flacco’s effectiveness in crucial situations was key to the Colts’ performance. After the Steelers closed the gap with scores from Fields, Flacco led a time-consuming drive that resulted in a vital field goal. Despite Flacco’s efforts, he was unable to convert a game-closing first down, but the Colts’ defense stepped up to secure the win.
In injury news, the Steelers saw several players, including RG James Daniels and RB Cordarrelle Patterson, go down with ankle injuries, with Patterson being carted off. The Colts were without three starters, including CB Kenny Moore II and DE Kwity Paye.
Looking ahead, the Steelers will host the Dallas Cowboys next Sunday, while the Colts will travel to Jacksonville for their upcoming game.