Colts Fail To ‘Win Now’ As They Fall 21-13 To The Vikings
Source: Stephen Maturen / Getty
MINNEAPOLIS — The first game of the Indianapolis Colts’ new direction for the season did not end as they had hoped as they lost to the Minnesota Vikings 21-13 in front of a nationwide prime-time TV audience.
It marked the first game of the season in which Joe Flacco was named the regular starter at quarterback “going forward” by head coach Shane Steichen. The Colts led in the early going as they were able to find the endzone on a fumble forced by the defense and returned by Kenny Moore II in the first quarter.
Unfortunately for the Colts, it would be the only time they would touch the endzone as the offense time and again could not get any significant rhythm, much credit to the Vikings’ pass rush.
“They definitely go after us,” said Flacco. “They kind of did what they were going to do the whole game and we just, we’d have a play here and there, but then we’d shoot ourselves in the foot or just not be able to keep drives going.”
A couple of those instances included a fumble by running back Jonathan Taylor on a handoff on the game’s opening drive that resulted in a recovery by the Vikings.
The most costly misque came in the 3rd quarter as the Colts trailed 14-7. Flacco, looking wide receiver Josh Downs outside the numbers on the left side, underthrew his pass which was easy pickings for Minnesota defensive back Byron Murpy, Jr. The interception would result in another touchdown on the subsequent drive by the Vikings offense.
Unable to fully respond, Matt Gay hit two field goals between then and the end of the game, well short of what the Colts needed in the end to win the ball game.
“Obviously very disappointing,” said head coach Shane Steichen. “Going on the road and not getting it done. It starts with myself, I’m the head coach. I wasn’t good enough for the guys tonight.”
Flacco, replacing Anthony Richardson, mustered just 179 yards and an interception. Taylor had 13 carries for 48 yards.
Indianapolis hopes to get back on course in this new direction next Sunday when they host the Buffalo Bills.
