Posted on Nov 04
Colts' Coach Steichen confirms Joe Flacco as QB1 despite struggling performance
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Colts' Offense Struggles with Flacco as Starting Quarterback
Why it matters: The Indianapolis Colts' offense faced significant challenges in Joe Flacco's first game as the starting quarterback, resulting in their lowest points, yards, and first downs of the season. This raises concerns about the team's offensive performance moving forward.
The Colts' offense had season lows in multiple categories:
- Offensive points: They scored only six points, their lowest output this season.
- Yards gained: The offense managed just 227 yards, demonstrating a lack of productivity.
- First downs: They achieved only 13 first downs, indicating an inability to sustain drives effectively.
Yes, but: Despite the disappointing performance, Coach Shane Steichen confirmed that Joe Flacco will remain the Colts' QB1. The team is putting faith in Flacco's abilities and believes he can improve in subsequent games.
Flacco's performance against the Minnesota Vikings:
- Completion rate: He completed 16 of 27 passes for 179 yards.
- Turnovers: Flacco threw one interception, which raised questions about his decision-making during critical moments.
Struggles in the running game:
- The Colts' running game also faced difficulties, producing a season-low 68 rushing yards.
- The lack of a strong ground attack adds pressure to the passing game and limits offensive options.
What to watch: Moving forward, it will be crucial to monitor how the Colts address their offensive struggles and whether adjustments will be made in play-calling or personnel decisions.
Quotes from key figures:
- Coach Shane Steichen on Joe Flacco as the starter: "Right now, yes." This indicates the team's commitment to Flacco despite the initial setbacks.
- Joe Flacco on the offensive struggles: "You know coming in here against a team like that, it's going to be difficult. But I don't think you ever anticipate something like that." Flacco acknowledges the challenges faced against a strong opponent but remains optimistic.
- Coach Shane Steichen on Flacco's performance: "He was fine." Steichen expresses confidence in Flacco's abilities despite the lackluster outcome.
- Indy wideout Alec Pierce on the change in quarterback affecting the plays: "We're not doing as many [run-pass option] types of things." This suggests a potential adjustment in offensive strategies due to the change in starting quarterback.
The bottom line: The Colts' offense struggled significantly with Joe Flacco as the starting quarterback, resulting in their lowest offensive output of the season. While the team remains committed to Flacco, adjustments and improvements will be necessary for future success.