Colts in a battle with Bengals to sign backup QBs

admin | December 7, 2023 | Other Clubs | No Comments

Driven by decisive overtime victories, the Cincinnati Bengals take on the Indianapolis Colts in a surprising playoff battle.

Last week, the Colts (7-5) triumphed over the Titans on the road, defeating them 31-28 after answering a field goal in overtime with a touchdown. This was their fourth straight win.

With 2:31 remaining in overtime, quarterback Gardner Minshew connected with Michael Pittman in the end zone, propelling the Colts into the AFC South championship game. Starting the season as Anthony Richardson’s backup, the Indianapolis quarterback completed 26 of 42 passes for 312 yards and two touchdowns.

The Bengals (6-6) are also coming off a thrilling road overtime victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars on Monday night, which they accomplished thanks to an outstanding performance from their own backup quarterback.

A vital player for the Colts will return from suspension. Grover Stewart, a defensive tackle, is back after serving a six-game suspension for using performance-enhancing drugs.

Stewart remarked, “I’m proud of the guys, man, like every single week going out there giving their all.” “You can’t ask for more when you’re on a four-game winning streak.”

In Stewart’s absence, the Colts gave up 4.7 yards per run, which ranks 28th in the NFL and is a full yard higher on average than when he was in the starting lineup. With a league-high 30 sacks in their final six games, the Colts made up for it in the pass rush.

Head coach Shane Steichen continued, “It’s kind of obvious but he definitely helps our defensive line and he’s a really good player.” “He’s a major player who will support us on Sunday,”

Cincinnati has gained confidence following quarterback Jake Browning’s historic performance against Jacksonville. making only his second career start following right wrist surgery that ended Joe Burrow’s season. Browning quietly rallied the Bengals from touchdown deficits of 7-0, 14-7, and 28-21 by completing 32 of 37 passes for 354 yards and a touchdown in addition to rushing for 22 yards and another score.

Zac Taylor, the head coach, remarked, “He just lit the world on fire.” “I wasn’t sure if the ball had reached the ground yet or if we had an incompletion at halftime. He played the game so wonderfully, in my opinion. He threw some throws that were forceful.