Official Jagoffs limp dick us into submission

[Lov2fish]

I can't believe none of you Fairweather assholes made an official game thread.

Jagoffs 34
Colts 23

[ChoppedWood]

Rivers is actually so desperate to get one last W on the record that when we are down 24-0 in the first quarter, he goes on the Jags sideline and puts on a Jags jersey. This one is gonna be fucking ugly.

[omahacolt]

C- on the title

[Colts And Orioles]

I can't believe that none of you Fairweather assholes ......





o


Our beloved Colts are in a no-win situation in these next 2 games.

If they win the game(s), they will be chastised and ridiculed for winning when it's meaningless.

If they lose the game(s), then they suck because they lost.


Me ??? I'm on board because I'm always on board, just as I was when we started the 2011 season at 0-13 ...... let's go, Uncle Phil.

o

[apballin]

I can't believe none of you Fairweather assholes made an official game thread.

Jagoffs 34
Colts 23

Long night man, but fitting title

Colts will win today itll be reminiscent of Luck beating the Jags late in the season when we were out of the playoffs and it was the most emotion I think I’ve ever seen out of Luck. Might be Riley Leonard might be Rivers but colts win and they’ll celebrate like it’s a superbowl victory

Colts 31- 27

[Oldcolt]

Why on earth are they activating Sauce for a game that means less than nothing? Let him heal for next season when, hopefully, it counts. Why risk it? Because that is what we do?

[HoosierinFL]

Why on earth are they activating Sauce for a game that means less than nothing? Let him heal for next season when, hopefully, it counts. Why risk it? Because that is what we do?

Same reason we risked Buckners neck last week. This staff is willing to risk their players health to save their jobs

[Thorgrim]

Colts win 27-23.
In fact they will win next week as well because that’s what we do. We will finish in the 8th spot, with a terrible slot in the draft order, knowing with perhaps another win we would have made the tourney.

[Indystu2]

Colts 21
Jags 35

[Puck]

Rivers High School team is at the game today. That's pretty cool

[Hoopsdoc]

Colts win 27-23.
In fact they will win next week as well because that’s what we do. We will finish in the 8th spot, with a terrible slot in the draft order, knowing with perhaps another win we would have made the tourney.

We ain’t winning today or next week.

Unless Houston has nothing to play for next week.

41-20 Jags.

PS, I think the Jags could very well make it to the Super Bowl.

[Puck]

We ain’t winning today or next week.

Unless Houston has nothing to play for next week.

41-20 Jags.

PS, I think the Jags could very well make it to the Super Bowl.

I think Houston can. That D is for real

[apballin]

I think Houston can. That D is for real

Neither one of them can win the superbowl

Especially Stroud, he folds when pressure is in his face

[Hoopsdoc]

Neither one of them can win the superbowl

Especially Stroud, he folds when pressure is in his face

I agree with you on Stroud.

But Coen has Lawrence playing by far the best football of his career. If he’s not holding them back, they could certainly get to the Super Bowl.

[apballin]

First good sign, JJ Watt isn’t calling the game

[dwilli57]

why in the fuck is he playing Rivers??? Stupid ass fucking move...play Leonard and give him some playing time.

[YDFL Commish]

Obvious PI on Pittman. Refs are already working against us.

[HoosierinFL]

Oh look an effective hot read. Anyone on the colts taking notes?

[Thorgrim]

o


Our beloved Colts are in a no-win situation in these next 2 games.

If they win the game(s), they will be chastised and ridiculed for winning when it's meaningless.

If they lose the game(s), then they suck because they lost.


Me ??? I'm on board because I'm always on board, just as I was when we started the 2011 season at 0-13 ...... let's go, Uncle Phil.

o

I really want Phil to get a couple wins. I always liked the guy and he deserves the team to ball for him. It’s a horrible spot for the team to be in but pride alone should serve as motivation enough.

[HoosierinFL]

3rd and long we blitz they read it and make the same pass for a first down twice

[DragonTails]

why in the fuck is he playing Rivers??? Stupid ass fucking move...play Leonard and give him some playing time.

Great question. Anyone have the answer?

[Indystu2]

Nice unforced turnover recovery

[HoosierinFL]

Incredibly dumb play call, they didn’t need trickery to move the ball.

[YDFL Commish]

Jags are over thinking this. More plays like that one are our only chance.

[apballin]

Incredibly dumb play call, they didn’t need trickery to move the ball.

Doing his best Steichen impression

[Racehorse]

Good play, Mallory

[Indystu2]

Good 1st quarter. Let's get 7 to open the 2nd.

[Indystu2]

Way to finsh that drive with 7. 15 play drive.

[apballin]

They’re definitely playing with some heart today

[Indystu2]

Not sure yet.

o


I'm just tuning in ...... did the Colts' defense come to play today ???

o

[Racehorse]

o


I'm just tuning in ...... did the Colts' defense come to play today ???

o

They got lucky on the first drive.

[Racehorse]

Jags trying to cheat there

[Colts And Orioles]

I really want Phil to get a couple wins. I always liked the guy and he deserves the team to ball for him. It’s a horrible spot for the team to be in but pride alone should serve as motivation enough.





o


I love the annoyed expression on Uncle Phil's face any time one of his teammates fucks up ...... he's like a 39 year-old Jimmy Connors who made it to the Semi-Finals of the US Open in 1991. Connors would look at the judge incredulously after a bad call, and say, l "I'm 39 years-old working my butt off out here, and you're pulling that nonsense ??? C'mon now, man."

o

[Racehorse]

Not a catch, but refs gonna ref

[Indystu2]

So, running into a player does not constitute a tackle. Wrap up!

[Indystu2]

"as good as any" = average. I really wish announcers would stop saying that.

[YDFL Commish]

Bad angle by Cross. He looked foolish on that run.

[apballin]

2 weeks in a row the defense has yet to get a stop… playing at home

[Hoopsdoc]

Defense can’t get a stop.

[Hoopsdoc]

Ugh, now the Jags get 2 for 1.

[apballin]

Another atrocious special teams penalty

Special Teams have killed us the last month as well

[apballin]

Grover is everywhere today

[Racehorse]

Defense can’t get a stop.

Finally got one

[apballin]

Finally got one

Amazing what getting a team in 3rd and long can do

[YDFL Commish]

Grover is everywhere today

He's pounded Lawrence.

[Indystu2]

So many times this D has gone soft on 3rd and long.

Amazing what getting a team in 3rd and long can do

[YDFL Commish]

Miss poor time management!

[Racehorse]

Dulin is special teams player of the week so far

[Hoopsdoc]

Ugh, now the Jags get 2 for 1. Again.

[Indystu2]

Dulin wrapped up that tackle. See? It works!

[apballin]

Steichen just can’t help himself, gotta do some dumb shit every game

Let’s run the ball on first down and make them think we’re running the clock out and then throw the ball 2 times

[Racehorse]

Lawrence can run, making is stressful on the defense

[HoosierinFL]

How bad must you been when Trevor Lawrence can juke you out of your socks?

[Racehorse]

Need a turnover here

[Hoopsdoc]

If Lawrence makes throws like that, there’s no stopping him.

[rm1369]

Steichen just can’t help himself, gotta do some dumb shit every game

Let’s run the ball on first down and make them think we’re running the clock out and then throw the ball 2 times

He’s awful at time management

[Indystu2]

Got one!

[Racehorse]

Need a turnover here

Thanks, Trevor

[Indystu2]

Good call

Need a turnover here

[Hoopsdoc]

If Lawrence makes throws like that, there’s no stopping him.

Alternatively, if he makes boneheaded throws like that, he’s really beatable.

[apballin]

Good call, what a pick

[Colts And Orioles]

o


(THE COLTS' DEFENSE) 0 [1st Half]



Fumble Recovery


TD


PUNT


INT

o

[Colts And Orioles]

Good call, what a pick.





o


Last week, the 1st-quarter turnover on special teams wound up killing us (largely because of our defense being horrible.)

This week, the Colts are Plus-2 in the turnover category so far ...... the defense needs to at least modestly step up to make it count.

o

[Colts And Orioles]

o


(THYE COLTS' DEFENSE) 0 [1st Half]



Fumble Recovery

TD

PUNT

INT

o

o


That looks excellent on paper, but it probably was not as good as it looks.

o

[Indystu2]

and back to "normal" defense

[Racehorse]

Franklin needs to sit and let someone else get burnt

[apballin]

Can’t drop that pick

[Racehorse]

Challenge flag was late. Refs gonna ref

[apballin]

Pierce was wide open should’ve been a TD too bad he can’t get it that far

[Racehorse]

Pierce was wide open should’ve been a TD too bad he can’t get it that far

Ball was there. Left arm was held making him unable to turn to get it.

[Racehorse]

Mo Cox

[Colts And Orioles]

o


For a game that is meaningless, I sure as hell care whether or not the Colts win this one.

o

[Hoopsdoc]

Cross is atrocious in coverage.

Also, Gardner is out?

[Puck]

Pierce was wide open should’ve been a TD too bad he can’t get it that far

WTH are you talking about. If he threw it any farther it would've been out of the endzone

[Puck]

Cross is atrocious in coverage.

Also, Gardner is out?

Anyone know what happened to Sauce?

[Hoopsdoc]

We cannot cover these guys so we have to blitz. Which doesn’t get home, leaving guys wide open anyway.

We’re not getting close to stopping them unless Lawrence makes a boneheaded play.

[HoosierinFL]

Cross is atrocious in coverage.

Also, Gardner is out?

Probably should not have been active. If he can’t get through the game he wasn’t ready

[Puck]

That should've been a flag. And the Downs catch was not good.


They must want Houston to with the division

[Hoopsdoc]

Wow, a stop. Is that the first one that didn’t involve a turnover?

[Puck]

I take it back that was not PI

[Hoopsdoc]

That should've been a flag. And the Downs catch was not good.


They must want Houston to with the division

Yeah, we’ve gotten away with a couple.

They want drama in the division and for Grandpa Rivers to be successful.

[Hoopsdoc]

Jalen Travis has done well.

[Colts And Orioles]

Wow, a stop ...... is that the first one that didn’t involve a turnover ???





o


No.

They forced a punt to start the 2nd half (3-and-out.)

o

[Hoopsdoc]

I take it back that was not PI

That was PI. He held him out of his break.

[Colts And Orioles]

Ugh, now the Jags get 2 for 1. Again.





o


They didn't score on any of those 3 possessions ...... Punt, INT, Punt.

o

[YDFL Commish]

Take any bets that Steichen has a trick play dialed up for later in the game?

[Colts And Orioles]

o


They are killing us on 3rd downs.

o

[Puck]

Take any bets that Steichen has a trick play dialed up for later in the game?

Hope so that would be cool

[Racehorse]

Anyone know what happened to Sauce?

Calf. What else would it be with this city?

[Hoopsdoc]

They’re doubling us in yardage. The only reason this game is close is turnovers.

[Indystu2]

Hopefully Rivers will audible out of it.

Need a turnover here

o


A Statue of Liberty, or a Hook-and-Ladder.

o

[Colts And Orioles]

o


EAT SHIT, TREVOR LAWRENCE !!!


o

[Indystu2]

Good 4th down stop. Bad play call by the Jags.

[Hoopsdoc]

Wow, the Jags are so dumb. Why on earth would they not kick the field goal there?

Colts have like 170 yards offense.

[Puck]

Looks like he tried to go back in


Stephen Holder
@HolderStephen
·
23m
Colts CB Sauce Gardner grabbed his helmet prior to this series after having his left calf looked at by trainers, but he did not ultimately re-enter the game. Might be keeping him out for the duration. Will monitor.

[YDFL Commish]

Good 4th down stop. Bad play call by the Jags.

Big Grove is owning Trevor Lawrence and their O-line!

[Thorgrim]

o


A Statue of Liberty, or a Hook-and-Ladder.

o

Probably the old halfback option flea ladder of liberty play.

[Hoopsdoc]

Well that’s game. Good effort.

[Indystu2]

Wow. Some D showed up. Held them to 3. Good job.

[YDFL Commish]

Does Dulin have another big return in him?

[Indystu2]

Jags aren't even gonna give him a chance.

Does Dulin have another big return in him?

[Indystu2]

And that "should" be ball game.

[Indystu2]

It's fun watching the Jags try to implode here

[apballin]

It's fun watching the Jags try to implode here

Their coach is such a fuckin dork asked the refs are they fuckin drunk

[apballin]

I’m so glad we got to see the 44 year old coach on the field pass for 130 yards

And now they bring Leonard in this is hilarious

[CletusPyle]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/G9N2QipXsAALUHL?format=jpg&name=900x900

[Indystu2]

Enjoy the rest of your day guys. Peace out!

[YDFL Commish]

Well...Riley Leonard got to show off his arm. :rolleyes:

[Puck]

I’m so glad we got to see the 44 year old coach on the field pass for 130 yards

And now they bring Leonard in this is hilarious

You just bitch to bitch. There is no way Riley would have had us in position to win this game.

But Hey. You and others will see him play next week.

[apballin]

You just bitch to bitch. There is no way Riley would have had us in position to win this game.

But Hey. You and others will see him play next week.

Everyone Bitchs to vent frustration over incompetence especially due to emotional connection to an old ass fatass retired QB that had no business out there this year fuck the story

How was throwing Leonard in right there “fair” to him?

GTFO

[Hoopsdoc]

You just bitch to bitch. There is no way Riley would have had us in position to win this game.

But Hey. You and others will see him play next week.

Is that confirmed? Is Leonard for sure playing next week?

Because no matter what you think of Leonard’s potential, or lack thereof, there’s at least a POSSIBILITY that he’ll be good, or at least show promise.

Rivers offers nothing except what we saw today.

I’d rather lose by 30 with Leonard throwing 5 interceptions than lose the way we lost today. Then at least we’d know.

[apballin]

You just bitch to bitch. There is no way Riley would have had us in position to win this game.

But Hey. You and others will see him play next week.

Anyway I disagree the turnovers the big returns kept us in the game so I believe we would’ve been in position with a younger more athletic QB than a guy who was a sitting duck back there regardless if his experience reading defenses is supposed to give us an advantage

[Puck]

Everyone Bitchs to vent frustration over incompetence especially due to emotional connection to an old ass fatass retired QB that had no business out there this year fuck the story

How was throwing Leonard in right there “fair” to him?

GTFO


Why? Are you drunk? Because he can throw it farther that Phil can and they wanted to win.

[Puck]

Is that confirmed? Is Leonard for sure playing next week?

Because no matter what you think of Leonard’s potential, or lack thereof, there’s at least a POSSIBILITY that he’ll be good, or at least show promise.

Rivers offers nothing except what we saw today.

I’d rather lose by 30 with Leonard throwing 5 interceptions than lose the way we lost today. Then at least we’d know.


NFL Network

@nflnetwork
Riley Leonard will likely start over Philip Rivers at QB for the Colts next week, per
@RapSheet
.


Do you not think the coaches already know he isn't ready by watching him the entire year?

Why do they have to lose badly just to show the fans what they already know?

[Puck]

Anyway I disagree the turnovers the big returns kept us in the game so I believe we would’ve been in position with a younger more athletic QB than a guy who was a sitting duck back there regardless if his experience reading defenses is supposed to give us an advantage

You think Riley could read the D and change into better plays?

We shall see next week. Hopefully Houston has something to play for and they show their full D.

[Hoopsdoc]

NFL Network

@nflnetwork
Riley Leonard will likely start over Philip Rivers at QB for the Colts next week, per
@RapSheet
.


Do you not think the coaches already know he isn't ready by watching him the entire year?

Why do they have to lose badly just to show the fans what they already know?

If he’s not any better than what we saw today, why is he on the team?

There is also the fact that, if he isn’t ready now, what better way for him to learn than to be out there? There is always the chance that he’s a fast learner and can learn on the job. I know the chances of that happening are almost zero, but at least Leonard offers SOME kind of possibility.


Everyone likes Rivers but he’s done. He’s washed. There is ZERO reason for him to be playing. He shouldn’t have been playing today.

He offers absolutely NOTHING, for either this season or the future.

[ChoppedWood]

2-6 against winning teams this year

Over 20 one time in last 7 games

Don't give a fuck what injuries you have and don't give a fuck how well your 44 year old retired QB was able to read defenses...

Don't Give a FUCK!

The combination of a horrible GM and a low level HC have once again found us watching the playoffs. It is time to start this whole fucking thing over!

[Thorgrim]

We had jello today

[CletusPyle]

If Leonard starts next week, which he certainly should, it won't be because Ballard wants him too...maybe Shane or CIG, but not Ballard. Because if the kid plays well, and I think he will, Ballard will look like even more of a fool!

[sherck]

Playing Rivers today had absolutly zero use to the Colts team. No chance to continue in the playoffs and no chance he is playing here next year. Useless after Houston won yesterday.

I agree that i would have preferred to see if Leonard has anything in the tank than to see Phillip and know for sure he has very little left in the tank.

Facts:

A. No one knows if Daniel Jones will be ready to play next season, and if he gets cleared to play, will be effective. That will now be his second reconstructed knee. No one knows how he will respond. Sure, he MAY come back in time for Training Camp and pick up where he left off in 2025 but it is a huge unknown. He may come back during the season. If anyone says for certain that he will return by a certain date and he will be effective, they are smoking crack.

B. Phillip Rivers will be back coaching his high school team in 2026.

C. Anthony Richardson is a comlete unknown. Is he healthy enough to play football in 2026? Did he lose an eyeball? Did extensive testing indeed tell him that his bones are made out of glass? And if he is healthy, he has had little to zero chance to develop over the past year.

D. Riley Leonard is a nearly complete unknown. Sure, he looked....okay....in his one chance to play this season but does not appear to have many of the traits that quality NFL QBs possess. But he is healthy which is something we cannot say about options A and C above.

That is the state of the Colts QB position.

Free agents? Not much out there.

Jones is a free agent; how much is he worth to take the chance on him and his health to retain him?

Lots of things for a new GM and HC to determine as they start their Colts era.

[ChoppedWood]

If Leonard starts next week, which he certainly should, it won't be because Ballard wants him too...maybe Shane or CIG, but not Ballard. Because if the kid plays well, and I think he will, Ballard will look like even more of a fool!

I will be shocked if they start him. To your point, there is a lot of downside risk for both of them him actually playing well. These two seem like the type that would pimp their own daughter out if they thought it could benefit them.

[Puck]

If he’s not any better than what we saw today, why is he on the team?

There is also the fact that, if he isn’t ready now, what better way for him to learn than to be out there? There is always the chance that he’s a fast learner and can learn on the job. I know the chances of that happening are almost zero, but at least Leonard offers SOME kind of possibility.


Everyone likes Rivers but he’s done. He’s washed. There is ZERO reason for him to be playing. He shouldn’t have been playing today.

He offers absolutely NOTHING, for either this season or the future.

IMO. they knew they were losing Sam So they needed a practice squad guy to run that unit. They had DJ and AR. Not sure any team actually depends on the 3rd string QB to actually play unless its an emergency.

As far as Rivers today. There was still a chance for us to make the playoffs until the Texans beat the Chargers. He took all the 1st team reps. Once it was done they let him play in front of his family and his team from Ala one last time.


I think you all will see Riley is about the same as Sam. And he wasn't a starter either.

[Hoopsdoc]

If Leonard starts next week, which he certainly should, it won't be because Ballard wants him too...maybe Shane or CIG, but not Ballard. Because if the kid plays well, and I think he will, Ballard will look like even more of a fool!

That doesn’t make sense. The only reason Rivers is here is because of Steichen. So it’s more likely Steichen doesn’t want Leonard playing.

Why would Ballard not want Leonard playing?

[Lov2fish]

Just got home. I was on the sidelines when some were out there warming up. Whomever said Riley can't throw a ball ifs fucking retarded. He was throwing 40 yard darts. Unlike Rivers fucking helium balloons he was launching.

[Hoopsdoc]

IMO. they knew they were losing Sam So they needed a practice squad guy to run that unit. They had DJ and AR. Not sure any team actually depends on the 3rd string QB to actually play unless its an emergency.

As far as Rivers today. There was still a chance for us to make the playoffs until the Texans beat the Chargers. He took all the 1st team reps. Once it was done they let him play in front of his family and his team from Ala one last time.


I think you all will see Riley is about the same as Sam. And he wasn't a starter either.

That’s a fair point regarding the practice reps.

However, I’m not sold on Leonard being about the same as Sam. Certainly not in terms of arm talent.

Sam would never have been able to make that Hail Mary throw today. His arm has never been strong enough to play in the NFL.

[sherck]

Just got home. I was on the sidelines when some where out there warming up. Whomever said Riley can't throw a ball ifs fucking retarded. He was throwing 40 yard darts. Unlike Rivers fucking helium balloons he was launching.
The biggest mark agains Leonard that I have is that after watching cuts from his college career, he:

A. Has issues throwing from the pocket; he would much prefer to roll-out.

B. Tends to pull the ball down too quickly and run.

Both of those can work in college; neither work long-term in the NFL because everyone is at least as good of an athlete as you.

His arm strength was never in doubt.

While the odds are against him, I would rather have seen Leonard play these last four weeks and lose just like Rivers did but get some development than do the experiment we did with Rivers. Rivers entertained me but did nothing to advance the team.

How was being on the sideline vs being in the stands?

[ChoppedWood]

Just got home. I was on the sidelines when some where out there warming up. Whomever said Riley can't throw a ball ifs fucking retarded. He was throwing 40 yard darts. Unlike Rivers fucking helium balloons he was launching.

He has a pretty live arm, he just has a wildly inaccurate arm. To me, he is not as guess where it is gonna go as AR, but he isn't that far off either. The problem is it is particularly obvious when he is given a well formed, 3-6 second NFL type of pocket. It's like he can't relax and just throw it in those situations so he aims it instead.

I will say his improv game, especially on designed pocket rolls, is pretty solid. He did that shit to ND against them and that's why they had him as their QB doing that shit to others last year.

He is undoubtedly a tough and competitive kid though. His performance in the natty last year was testimony to that.

[Puck]

The biggest mark agains Leonard that I have is that after watching cuts from his college career, he:

A. Has issues throwing from the pocket; he would much prefer to roll-out.

B. Tends to pull the ball down too quickly and run.

Both of those can work in college; neither work long-term in the NFL because everyone is at least as good of an athlete as you.

His arm strength was never in doubt.

While the odds are against him, I would rather have seen Leonard play these last four weeks and lose just like Rivers did but get some development than do the experiment we did with Rivers. Rivers entertained me but did nothing to advance the team.

How was being on the sideline vs being in the stands?

In hindsight that is the right decision. But we were still in playoff contention. It would be malpractice for them to not even try to get a better option at QB

Once Rivers came in they saw he was the better option. So he was signed

I am not sure why this is so hard for people to see. They were fighting to the end for a playoff spot. It's now over and NOW they can throw Riley in

Could he play lights out? Maybe. If so that will make the FO look very very bad. But I don't see that happening.

I like Leonard. I root for and watch ND But he has nver impressed me as a starting QB in the NFL

[Lov2fish]

He has a pretty live arm, he just has a wildly inaccurate arm. To me, he is not as guess where it is gonna go as AR, but he isn't that far off either. The problem is it is particularly obvious when he is given a well formed, 3-6 second NFL type of pocket. It's like he can't relax and just throw it in those situations so he aims it instead.

I will say his improv game, especially on designed pocket rolls, is pretty solid. He did that shit to ND against them and that's why they had him as their QB doing that shit to others last year.

He is undoubtedly a tough and competitive kid though. His performance in the natty last year was testimony to that.

When I was down there watching him he didn't make one bad throw. He had nobody in his face either so you have a fair assessment. I'll admit I didn't watch much ND football last year. I am also not advocating he is our savior. I am advocating that I have seen enough of the dog and pony show. AR is just bad at football and I do not want to watch another washed up QB get trotted out there. DJ is not elite, but we can win with him. However, until something is seriously done with our front 7 we are fucking fodder for the other AFC teams.

[CletusPyle]

That doesn’t make sense. The only reason Rivers is here is because of Steichen. So it’s more likely Steichen doesn’t want Leonard playing.

Why would Ballard not want Leonard playing?

If Ballard wanted Leonard to play no way we get Rivers, Steichen is not writing checks, the decision to bring in Rivers was up to Ballard and ultimately CIG. If Leonard performs well, even if Steichen wanted Rivers, it won't reflect on him nearly as bad as on Ballard.

I would really like some of you to explain to me what you think a GM's job is, because anytime things go badly for this team it is never the GM's fault?:rolleyes:

[apballin]

I don’t see why anything has to change as far as running the same offense they intended or visualized running with AR, Leonard isn’t as athletic as AR but he’s more athletic than Minshew with a better arm.

[Hoopsdoc]

If Ballard wanted Leonard to play no way we get Rivers, Steichen is not writing checks, the decision to bring in Rivers was up to Ballard and ultimately CIG. If Leonard performs well, even if Steichen wanted Rivers, it won't reflect on him nearly as bad as on Ballard.

I would really like some of you to explain to me what you think a GM's job is, because anytime things go badly for this team it is never the GM's fault?:rolleyes:

What the hell are you talking about? Steichen and Rivers go way back. They talk every week on the phone. Rivers himself said it was Steichen who asked him to come back. It was Steichen who wanted Rivers, not Ballard.

And it is ALWAYS the coach who determines who plays, not the GM. The GM builds the roster, the coach sets the depth chart.

Also, Leonard was a 6th round draft pick. If he plays poorly, that’s not going to make Ballard look bad. He’ll be like 1000 other late round picks who don’t pan out. Every GM who has ever lived has had draft picks who don’t work out.

I get that you hate Ballard but what youre trying to claim here is asinine. I’m not really sure what it is you’re claiming aside from “Ballard bad”.

[ChoppedWood]

I don’t see why anything has to change as far as running the same offense they intended or visualized running with AR, Leonard isn’t as athletic as AR but he’s more athletic than Minshew with a better arm.

That's what has me so incensed with the entire thing. I am not in any way hostile toward Rivers, give him his flowers for doing what he was able to do in these games, he is a competent competitive leader- good for him.

It's instead the fact that Leonard has been here for a long enough period, and plays the same game as DJ which opened up the playbook, that he SHOULD have been able to come in and be the QB and we should have been able to play the same style. The fact they didn't feel he was capable of doing the RPO's, designed rolls, the QB end arounds, to me is a huge black mark upon the coaching staff and why I am back in the camp that I want them all shit canned.

[CletusPyle]

What the hell are you talking about? Steichen and Rivers go way back. They talk every week on the phone. Rivers himself said it was Steichen who asked him to come back. It was Steichen who wanted Rivers, not Ballard.

And it is ALWAYS the coach who determines who plays, not the GM. The GM builds the roster, the coach sets the depth chart.

Also, Leonard was a 6th round draft pick. If he plays poorly, that’s not going to make Ballard look bad. He’ll be like 1000 other late round picks who don’t pan out. Every GM who has ever lived has had draft picks who don’t work out.

I get that you hate Ballard but what youre trying to claim here is asinine. I’m not really sure what it is you’re claiming aside from “Ballard bad”.

Steichen can't bring in Rivers because they go way back....you obviously don't know shit about who hires players. If Ballard already had a good QB on the roster why bring in Rivers? Why waste the money on him?

If Riley does well he makes Ballard and Steichen both look like idiots.

[Puck]

Stephen Holder
@HolderStephen
Postgame: Colts coach Shane Steichen said he’ll think over his QB decision the next couple of days and decide who will start in Week 18 at Houston.
4:22 PM · Dec 28, 2025
·
15.9K
Views

[Hoopsdoc]

Steichen can't bring in Rivers because they go way back....you obviously don't know shit about who hires players. If Ballard already had a good QB on the roster why bring in Rivers? Why waste the money on him?

If Riley does well he makes Ballard and Steichen both look like idiots.

Because Rivers was who his coach wanted? What’s Ballard going to say, no? That’s insane. They were fighting for a playoff spot. Ballard isn’t a coach. He doesn’t call plays. If Steichen tells Ballard he has a better chance with Rivers, Ballard is going to sign Rivers. Regardless of what he(Ballard) thinks of Leonard.

I guess Belichick looked like an idiot when he played Bledsoe over Brady? Shanahan looked like an idiot when he played Trey Lance over Brock Purdy?

You hate Ballard but you’re making zero sense here.

[Racehorse]

If Leonard starts next week, which he certainly should, it won't be because Ballard wants him too...maybe Shane or CIG, but not Ballard. Because if the kid plays well, and I think he will, Ballard will look like even more of a fool!

That makes no sense. Shane wanted Rivers, and Ballard agreed. IF, big IF, Leonard plays well, it proves nothing.

[Lov2fish]

The biggest mark agains Leonard that I have is that after watching cuts from his college career, he:

A. Has issues throwing from the pocket; he would much prefer to roll-out.

B. Tends to pull the ball down too quickly and run.

Both of those can work in college; neither work long-term in the NFL because everyone is at least as good of an athlete as you.

His arm strength was never in doubt.

While the odds are against him, I would rather have seen Leonard play these last four weeks and lose just like Rivers did but get some development than do the experiment we did with Rivers. Rivers entertained me but did nothing to advance the team.

How was being on the sideline vs being in the stands?

Being on the sideline was fucking awesome. Some of these guys are a lot bigger up close, and some not as big as they look. I am right at 6ft. and I can look quite a few of our players eye to eye. Some were way bigger than I could imagine. I got to have a short conversation with Pierces mom. She was amazingly sweet and extremely proud of her son.

[CletusPyle]

Because Rivers was who his coach wanted? What’s Ballard going to say, no? That’s insane. They were fighting for a playoff spot. Ballard isn’t a coach. He doesn’t call plays. If Steichen tells Ballard he has a better chance with Rivers, Ballard is going to sign Rivers. Regardless of what he(Ballard) thinks of Leonard.

I guess Belichick looked like an idiot when he played Bledsoe over Brady? Shanahan looked like an idiot when he played Trey Lance over Brock Purdy?

You hate Ballard but you’re making zero sense here.

You are just trying to put all the blame of Steichen and giving Ballard the usual pass. Belichick would have looked like an idiot and so would have the GM if they didn't play Brady when Bledsoe got hurt, if they instead went out and got a 40+ year old retired QB and lost every game, then finally let Brady play and he looked great and earned the starting job...that is the correct analogy, not the straw man you created to protect Ballard!

[Puck]

You are just trying to put all the blame of Steichen and giving Ballard the usual pass. Belichick would have looked like an idiot and so would have the GM if they didn't play Brady when Bledsoe got hurt, if they instead went out and got a 40+ year old retired QB and lost every game, then finally let Brady play and he looked great and earned the starting job...that is the correct analogy, not the straw man you created to protect Ballard!

OK. Completely different situations

You need to go back and research this. BB actually knew Brady had the potential, and when the opportunity came he put him in

This was not a normal 6th rounder. BB knew he was going to be good once he saw him in practice.

[apballin]

OK. Completely different situations

You need to go back and research this. BB actually knew Brady had the potential, and when the opportunity came he put him in

This was not a normal 6th rounder. BB knew he was going to be good once he saw him in practice.

I don’t watch college football but his strengths according to most were

Toughness
Competitive
Grit

To me that’s a good foundation

[Colts And Orioles]

I don’t watch college football, but his strengths according to most were ......

Toughness
Competitive
Grit

To me, that’s a good foundation.





o


In all my years of watching football since the early 1970's, the toughest son-of-a-bitch that I ever saw play quarterback was Ben Roethlisberger ...... if he broke his ankle, he would beg Mike Tomlin to let him go out there and play in a wheelchair.

The 2nd toughest SOB that I ever saw play quarterback was Tom Brady ...... when he was 39 years-old I saw him dive head-first, over-the-top of the defense into the end-zone from the one-yardline, because it was a crucial TD late in the season when the Patriots needed a win.

o

[Puck]

I don’t watch college football but his strengths according to most were

Toughness
Competitive
Grit

To me that’s a good foundation

I can't argue with any of that.

We'll see how he does next week. But SS hasn't made the decision. It could be AR I am 99% sure it won't be rivers.

[Hoopsdoc]

You are just trying to put all the blame of Steichen and giving Ballard the usual pass. Belichick would have looked like an idiot and so would have the GM if they didn't play Brady when Bledsoe got hurt, if they instead went out and got a 40+ year old retired QB and lost every game, then finally let Brady play and he looked great and earned the starting job...that is the correct analogy, not the straw man you created to protect Ballard!

If that happens, it will make Steichen look dumb, not Ballard. By all accounts, it was Steichen who insisted on signing Rivers.

How does that make Ballard look dumb?

[Lov2fish]

I can't argue with any of that.

We'll see how he does next week. But SS hasn't made the decision. It could be AR I am 99% sure it won't be rivers.

In a quote from Rivers earlier, if this is the last one, it will be the last one. I got 3 bonus games I never expected to have when I walked through the tunnel in Buffalo. I'm ok with it.

With that said we will see Leonard, or AR if activated. I would rather see Leonard. I already know Anthony is not good at football. I suspect Leonard is not good at football, but I would like my curiosity satisfied. The resounding census is one of these two will start next season. Even if they resign Jones, he won't be ready. With no number 1's the next two years I think Jones is our best option, as stupid as that sounds being majorly injured. There are no top tier free agents available next year. So for me its sink or swim at this point

[YDFL Commish]

In a quote from Rivers earlier, if this is the last one, it will be the last one. I got 3 bonus games I never expected to have when I walked through the tunnel in Buffalo. I'm ok with it.

With that said we will see Leonard, or AR if activated. I would rather see Leonard. I already know Anthony is not good at football. I suspect Leonard is not good at football, but I would like my curiosity satisfied. The resounding census is one of these two will start next season. Even if they resign Jones, he won't be ready. With no number 1's the next two years I think Jones is our best option, as stupid as that sounds being majorly injured. There are no top tier free agents available next year. So for me its sink or swim at this point

It has to be Leonard. Give him all the 1st team reps, and see how he does.

[Thorgrim]

It has to be Leonard. Give him all the 1st team reps, and see how he does.

Agreed. There is absolutely nothing to be gained by starting AR.

[apballin]

Leonard had the same amount of passing yards when he played against Jacksonville in a typhoon

[Thorgrim]

o


In all my years of watching football since the early 1970's, the toughest son-of-a-bitch that I ever saw play quarterback was Ben Roethlisberger ...... if he broke his ankle, he would beg Mike Tomlin to let him go out there and play in a wheelchair.

The 2nd toughest SOB that I ever saw play quarterback was Tom Brady ...... when he was 39 years-old I saw him dive head-first, over-the-top of the defense into the end-zone from the one-yardline, because it was a crucial TD late in the season when the Patriots needed a win.

o

A little off topic on my part but I gotta throw Luck’s name into the conversation where modern players are concerned. That poor bastard nearly got killed behind his OL yet Kept coming back for more.

I have a special respect for the guys I watched in the 70’s though. They were fair game for all manner of violence and expected to play hurt at a time when qb’s were not the beneficiaries of our modern rules. Bert Jones, Terry Bradshaw, Archie Manning, and Dan Pastorini were the toughest I ever saw. I’m sure I’m forgetting a few.

[Lov2fish]

A little off topic on my part but I gotta throw Luck’s name into the conversation where modern players are concerned. That poor bastard nearly got killed behind his OL yet Kept coming back for more.

I have a special respect for the guys I watched in the 70’s though. They were fair game for all manner of violence and expected to play hurt at a time when qb’s were not the beneficiaries of our modern rules. Bert Jones, Terry Bradshaw, Archie Manning, and Dan Pastorini were the toughest I ever saw. I’m sure I’m forgetting a few.

I saw Bradshaw get his nugget bounced off the ground. Some smelling salt and he was back out there playing. Modern QB'S have no idea how easy they have it as far as being protected. I agree Pastorini was a warrior during the game.

[Thorgrim]

I saw Bradshaw get his nugget bounced off the ground. Some smelling salt and he was back out there playing. Modern QB'S have no idea how easy they have it as far as being protected. I agree Pastorini was a warrior during the game.

I was quite young but in 78’ I saw Stan White break Bradshaw’s nose during a preseason game. I don’t think I’ve ever seen someone bleed so much after a play. He came out of the game but seemed to shake it off and was starting the following week iirc. It scared the crap out of me at the time lol.

[Dewey 5]

I saw Bradshaw get his nugget bounced off the ground. Some smelling salt and he was back out there playing. Modern QB'S have no idea how easy they have it as far as being protected. I agree Pastorini was a warrior during the game.

Billy Kilmer was an average qb but he was one tough son of a bitch

[YDFL Commish]

I was quite young but in 78’ I saw Stan White break Bradshaw’s nose during a preseason game. I don’t think I’ve ever seen someone bleed so much after a play. He came out of the game but seemed to shake it off and was starting the following week iirc. It scared the crap out of me at the time lol.

Bradshaw was definitely as tough as they come.

https://youtu.be/t_BuDursFIg?si=RRrGImvhvi1_hguU

[albany ed]

I'm pretty sure Peyton Manning played with a broken jaw.

[CletusPyle]

If that happens, it will make Steichen look dumb, not Ballard. By all accounts, it was Steichen who insisted on signing Rivers.

How does that make Ballard look dumb?

I really can't explain it any better than I have, the internet is full of people who understand my point and agree that bringing in Rivers (again Ballard's decision, not Steichen's no matter how much he wanted him) would look like a foolish move if Leonard plays better in Houston.

[CletusPyle]

OK. Completely different situations

You need to go back and research this. BB actually knew Brady had the potential, and when the opportunity came he put him in

This was not a normal 6th rounder. BB knew he was going to be good once he saw him in practice.

So BB knew Brady was that good all along but played Bledsoe instead....do you realize how stupid that sounds?

[Oldcolt]

Bringing in Rivers was a desperate move that did nothing to move the needle for this team. We continue to find new and interesting ways to lose, almost like it is in our DNA. Maybe some new DNA making the decisions is needed.

[Thorgrim]

Bringing in Rivers was a desperate move that did nothing to move the needle for this team. We continue to find new and interesting ways to lose, almost like it is in our DNA. Maybe some new DNA making the decisions is needed.

“New and Interesting Ways to Lose” lol. Sounds like a really bad self help book or dubious community college course.

[apballin]

Stephen Holder said on twitter they started Rivers because it was the last home game and they wanted the stadium full

[Oldcolt]

Stephen Holder said on twitter they started Rivers because it was the last home game and they wanted the stadium full

So nothing to do with winning. Tracks

[Puck]

So BB knew Brady was that good all along but played Bledsoe instead....do you realize how stupid that sounds?

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/2034943/2020/09/02/tom-brady-drew-bledsoe-the-dynasty-excerpt/

From Grok since I do not have the Athletic

Yes, according to a 2020 article in The Athletic (excerpted from Jeff Benedict's book The Dynasty), Bill Belichick believed Tom Brady had outperformed Drew Bledsoe during the 2001 preseason and privately told owner Robert Kraft at the end of preseason that he wanted Brady as the starter.However, Belichick did not bench Bledsoe at the time due to practical reasons: Bledsoe was the established face of the franchise with a massive new 10-year, $103 million contract signed in March 2001, and Belichick was coming off a 5-11 season in 2000 with limited job security.The article states: "If it had been up to Belichick, Brady would have been his starter at the beginning of the 2001 season. He had said as much to Kraft... but Belichick had known that he wasn’t in a position to push the issue then."Bledsoe's injury in Week 2 against the Jets ultimately allowed Belichick to start Brady without controversy. Multiple other sources (including NESN reports and retrospectives) corroborate this account, noting Brady impressed in camp but political/financial factors kept Bledsoe as the Week 1 starter.In short, Belichick thought Brady had earned the job in the summer of 2001, but it wasn't implemented until the injury forced the change.

[Hoopsdoc]

I really can't explain it any better than I have, the internet is full of people who understand my point and agree that bringing in Rivers (again Ballard's decision, not Steichen's no matter how much he wanted him) would look like a foolish move if Leonard plays better in Houston.

Your point, as far as I can tell, is a dumb one.

Bringing in Rivers was 100 percent Shane Steichens idea, signed off on by CIG.

If Leonard goes out and plays well, that makes Steichen look dumb. That doesn’t reflect at all on Ballard.

Your hatred of Ballard seems to have made you irrational.

[Puck]

Your point, as far as I can tell, is a dumb one.

Bringing in Rivers was 100 percent Shane Steichens idea, signed off on by CIG.

If Leonard goes out and plays well, that makes Steichen look dumb. That doesn’t reflect at all on Ballard.

Your hatred of Ballard seems to have made you irrational.

https://www.yardbarker.com/nfl/articles/shane_steichen_details_how_colts_signed_philip_riv ers/s1_13132_43186525

When Colts reached out to Philip Rivers
Per a video shared by Colts radio announcer Matt Taylor, Steichen noted that he approached general manager Chris Ballard about reaching out to Rivers once the club learned that backup Riley Leonard was dealing with a strained knee ligament.
"He said, 'Heck yeah, I'm interested,'" Steichen said about the initial conversation with Rivers. Rivers then completed a successful workout with the Colts on Monday night before he decided on Tuesday that he wanted to make a return to an NFL squad.

Earlier on Wednesday, Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated wrote about how the relationship between Steichen and Rivers goes back to when Steichen was a defensive assistant with the then-San Diego Chargers in 2011. Steichen later served as Rivers' offensive coordinator with the Chargers.

"The coach and quarterback talk twice a week," Breer added about Steichen and Rivers.

[YDFL Commish]

If anybody on this board thinks that Riley Leonard was going to lead us to the playoffs, then the are delusional.

He didn't start last week, because he had no 1st team reps, and we weren't eliminated from the playoffs until Saturday. It would be dumb to not start him this week though.

[Puck]

If anybody on this board thinks that Riley Leonard was going to lead us to the playoffs, then the are delusional.

He didn't start last week, because he had no 1st team reps, and we weren't eliminated from the playoffs until Saturday. It would be dumb to not start him this week though.

I'm reading that SS hasn't made his decision yet between Phil and Riley.

My thinking is that Rivers starts. they work to gets his yards (105 yds) to pass Big Ben then Riley takes it from there

If it were me I would just start Riley

[YDFL Commish]

I could see that scenario playing out. But, it took the better part of 4 qtr's for old man Phil to get to 105 yds. vs the Jags.

[CletusPyle]

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/2034943/2020/09/02/tom-brady-drew-bledsoe-the-dynasty-excerpt/

From Grok since I do not have the Athletic

Yes, according to a 2020 article in The Athletic (excerpted from Jeff Benedict's book The Dynasty), Bill Belichick believed Tom Brady had outperformed Drew Bledsoe during the 2001 preseason and privately told owner Robert Kraft at the end of preseason that he wanted Brady as the starter.However, Belichick did not bench Bledsoe at the time due to practical reasons: Bledsoe was the established face of the franchise with a massive new 10-year, $103 million contract signed in March 2001, and Belichick was coming off a 5-11 season in 2000 with limited job security.The article states: "If it had been up to Belichick, Brady would have been his starter at the beginning of the 2001 season. He had said as much to Kraft... but Belichick had known that he wasn’t in a position to push the issue then."Bledsoe's injury in Week 2 against the Jets ultimately allowed Belichick to start Brady without controversy. Multiple other sources (including NESN reports and retrospectives) corroborate this account, noting Brady impressed in camp but political/financial factors kept Bledsoe as the Week 1 starter.In short, Belichick thought Brady had earned the job in the summer of 2001, but it wasn't implemented until the injury forced the change.

You believe what you want, no way BB knew Brady was a potential GOAT and had him on the bench....what if Bledsoe doesn't get hurt? Ballard is a joke, you guys keep defending him and watch this franchise rot even further. He is a joke and the vast majority of Colts fans want him and Steichen gone at the end of the season. I don't mind Steichen, I think he is learning, was probably never the best choice, another Ballard fuck up!

[CletusPyle]

Your point, as far as I can tell, is a dumb one.

Bringing in Rivers was 100 percent Shane Steichens idea, signed off on by CIG.

If Leonard goes out and plays well, that makes Steichen look dumb. That doesn’t reflect at all on Ballard.

Your hatred of Ballard seems to have made you irrational.

So I'm fucking stupid now, I wondered how long it would be before you resorted to insults! Ballard sucks as a GM, he has nearly destroyed this franchise but the worst part is fans like you continue to make excuses for him, defending to the death any time he is criticized!

[Puck]

You believe what you want, no way BB knew Brady was a potential GOAT and had him on the bench....what if Bledsoe doesn't get hurt? Ballard is a joke, you guys keep defending him and watch this franchise rot even further. He is a joke and the vast majority of Colts fans want him and Steichen gone at the end of the season. I don't mind Steichen, I think he is learning, was probably never the best choice, another Ballard fuck up!

You asked for proof. I gave it to you from MANY SOURCES. IIRC there was a short video about Brady and BB that also talked about it.

Don't be bull headed

[YDFL Commish]

So I'm fucking stupid now, I wondered how long it would be before you resorted to insults! Ballard sucks as a GM, he has nearly destroyed this franchise but the worst part is fans like you continue to make excuses for him, defending to the death any time he is criticized!

Dude, were you around for the sucktivity of 1972 through 1974, or 1978 to 1986 or the further embarrassment of 1991 to 1994?

If not, then you know nothing about destroyed franchises.

[ChoppedWood]

SS
2-9 vs Jags and Texans

gots to go man!

[Hoopsdoc]

So I'm fucking stupid now, I wondered how long it would be before you resorted to insults! Ballard sucks as a GM, he has nearly destroyed this franchise but the worst part is fans like you continue to make excuses for him, defending to the death any time he is criticized!

I didn’t say you were dumb, I said the point you were making is dumb.

I’m ambivalent on whether Ballard stays or goes and I don’t think anyone has any real idea what CIG is going to do.

What I do think is that, overall, Ballard has built a pretty damn good roster. We saw that when we had decent quarterback play this season, for the first time really since Rivers retired 5 years ago.

Ballards failure has been in finding a quarterback, but he’s not the only GM who has failed in that regard. More than half the league is looking for a good quarterback at any given time. They are REALLY hard to come by unless you’re REALLY REALLY bad.

And the Colts haven’t been bad enough to get one, even with less than stellar quarterback play.

To me, it all comes down to finding a quarterback. Without a good quarterback, pretty much everything else is irrelevant. Carlie should hire the best person to somehow go out and find one. If she thinks that’s Chris Ballard, so be it. If not, fire his ass and hire someone who will.

My concern is the next guy is not going to be any better if we don’t have a quarterback, and will almost CERTAINLY be worse.

[Puck]

Pat McAfee
@PatMcAfeeShow
·
6h
"We couldn't hear anything on Sunday"

THAT'S THE LAHD HAHSE
@LiamCoen
#PMSLive

[Colts And Orioles]

Dude, were you around for the sucktivity of 1972 through 1974, or 1978 to 1986 or the further embarrassment of 1991 to 1994 ???

If not, then you know nothing about destroyed franchises.





o


I agree with this overall sentiment, although I think that the period from 1972 through 1974 was more about a rebuilding process to a younger and (eventually) better team rather than a ruination of the franchise. The 1970 Colts that won the Super Bowl was an excellent team, but they were starting to age. 1971 saw them lose in the AFC Championship game while aging some more, and 1972 saw them fall to a 5-9 season, with mostly close losses (while aging some more.)

The 1973 team was flat-out bad, and the 1974 team was worse ...... but they were gradually getting younger and better equipped for a solid run, which was due mostly to Joe Thomas' excellent work.

o

[YDFL Commish]

o


I agree with this overall sentiment, although I think that the period from 1972 through 1974 was more about a rebuilding process to a younger and (eventually) better team rather than a ruination of the franchise. The 1970 Colts that won the Super Bowl was an excellent team, but they were starting to age. 1971 saw them lose in the AFC Championship game while aging some more, and 1972 saw them fall to a 5-9 season, with mostly close losses (while aging some more.)

The 1973 team was flat-out bad, and the 1974 team was worse ...... but they were gradually getting younger and better equipped for a solid run, which was due mostly to Joe Thomas' excellent work.

o

And I agree with your statements overall. But, Baltimore had become spoiled by winning...which was never going to last forever. Hell, you could see the cracks after 19's last great season 1967. The point being, if you if you aren't willing to last through the good or the mediocre...well you were not a true fan anyway.

[Discflinger]

Thank God that the season is over and I don't have to read any hater cw posts