Heinicke Talks About Minshew Before the Battle of Backups

The NFL hasn’t seen much good quarterbacking this season, whether it’s due to offenses going worse, defenses getting better, or unusually bad injury luck.

Backup quarterbacks have emerged from nowhere, taking over prime-time games and infiltrating Sunday schedules. Week 16 will be no exception. The Indianapolis Colts will face the Atlanta Falcons and two backup quarterbacks in early afternoon play on Sunday.

Gardner Minshew has filled in nicely for rookie Anthony Richardson for the Colts (8-6). The setback dampened Indianapolis’ season, but Minshew has thrown 14 touchdowns and eight interceptions on his way to a 6-4 record. He’s done enough to keep Indianapolis competitive, giving hope to the foundation that will surround Richardson when he returns next season.

The Falcons (6-8) have a less gratifying story to tell at quarterback. Starting quarterback Desmond Ridder struggled and was benched in favor of veteran Taylor Heinicke, who went 0-3 in his three games.

Ridder then reappeared, only to struggle much more. The rest of the way, Heinicke’s duty is to construct a miraculous playoff run. Heinicke discussed Minshew before of their Christmas Eve competition. “Yeah, I respect him, a lot,” Heinicke replied. “He’s been moved from team to team, but when his number is called, he goes out there and performs admirably.”

Obviously, he’s had some horrible games, but he still goes out there and battles, and he loves the game.” Both quarterbacks have a reputation for playing backyard football. Both are willing to sprint behind the line of scrimmage before delivering a risky pass. Similarities might also be discovered in their manufacture.

Atlanta’s quarterback ranks 19th in expected points added per play, 29th in success rate, and 43rd in completion % over predicted among the 48 quarterbacks with as many plays as Heinicke (90). Minshew is ranked 23rd, 26th, and 34th, in that order. Both have been mediocre, but Colts head coach Shane Steichen and the rest of the Indianapolis cast are better equipped to deal with mediocre quarterback play.

Heincike and Minshew have followed similar career paths, blazing at moments before being passed up in favor of a newer, generally younger, passer. They have played for seven different teams. Nonetheless, their parallel paths have taken them to a pivotal Week 16 meeting. Heinicke elaborated on their shared playstyle, preparing supporters for Sunday.

“I’m sure Brett Favre was one of his favorite players growing up.” I think we approach the game the same way, attack the game the same way, and it’ll be great to play against him.”

Atlanta is currently a 2.5-point favorite in a game that might terminate the Falcons’ season. On Sunday, embrace the chaos—this QB showdown guarantees a healthy dose.