Colts Head Coach Discusses Move to Bench Anthony Richardson:

Source: Jack Gorman / Getty

INDIANAPOLIS–Indianapolis Colts Head Coach Shane Steichen explained on Wednesday why he’s going with quarterback Joe Flacco as his starter instead of Anthony Richardson.

“It was a tough decision but one I felt that is in the best interest of our football team. I feel that Joe gives us the best chance to win right now. With that being said, I’m not giving up on Anthony by any means. I’m really not. He’s a young player with a ton of talent. And he will use this time to continue to develop and grow as a professional,” said Steichen at a Wednesday news conference.

Richardson ‘tapped out’ of Sunday’s loss to Houston for a play because he was “tired.” Steichen reiterated on Wednesday that the ‘tap out’ play was not a factor in his decision. He did say, though, that this would not be a one-week decision.

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“No, Joe will be our guy going forward,” said Steichen.

Steichen said Richardson was disappointed by the news, but said Richardson still needs to “grow and develop as a professional.”

“But you know what. I think he’s going to handle it the right way going forward. Be a professional about it, grind, get ready, prepare like you are the starter, because, shoot, he’s still one play away,” said Steichen.

In four games this season, Flacco has completed 66% of his passes for the Colts with seven touchdowns to just one interception. Richardson has four touchdowns to seven interceptions with a 44% completion percentage.

The Colts play the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday night at 8:20 EST.