Colts to start Rivers against 49ers as Richardson nears return from injury

The Indianapolis Colts are leaning on veteran quarterback Philip Rivers as they prepare for a crucial Week 16 matchup against the San Francisco 49ers.

Why it matters: Rivers’ return comes at a pivotal time, as the Colts are fighting for the final wild-card spot in the AFC.

• With an 8-6 record, they sit just one game behind the Houston Texans, making every performance critical.
• Rivers completed 18 of 27 passes for 120 yards in his first game back, demonstrating his ability to manage the game despite a long absence.

What’s new: Rivers will start again this week after returning from a five-year hiatus, providing stability to a team in need of leadership.

• Colts head coach Shane Steichen praised Rivers for his resilience and ability to put the team in a position to win despite being away from competitive play for so long.
• The veteran quarterback reported feeling good post-game, although he experienced some typical bumps and bruises.

Yes, but: While Rivers displayed commendable poise, questions remain about his effectiveness given the limited depth of his passing game.

• Only nine of Rivers' 27 attempts last week traveled more than five yards downfield, raising concerns about offensive explosiveness.
• This conservative approach may be a strategy to protect Rivers from further hits and allow him to regain his rhythm.

What to watch: The Colts’ upcoming game plan against the 49ers will likely reflect their desire to control the clock and complement Rivers with a strong running attack.

• Steichen indicated that controlling the ground game and taking easy completions would be essential components of their strategy moving forward.
• The potential return of rookie quarterback Anthony Richardson Sr., who has been sidelined with a fractured orbital bone but is nearing a return to practice, adds another layer of intrigue to the Colts' future plans.

The bottom line: As the Colts aim for a playoff spot, Rivers’ experience and leadership will be crucial in navigating their final games of the season.

• Balancing his role with the development of younger talent like Richardson will be key for the coaching staff as they assess their long-term strategy.
• The outcome against the 49ers could significantly shape the Colts' playoff hopes and set the tone for the remainder of the season.