Colts and Bengals pre-season recap

The Anthony Richardson experience had its first extended preview of the season, and much like a popular TV show or movie, it had several twists and turns throughout. 

By now Colts fans know what to expect from the second-year signal caller. There are going to be the highest of highs along with the “scratch your head” plays all within a few quarters. Richardson finished the night 8 of 14 with a touchdown and interception returned for a touchdown. The interception came on a miscommunication between Kylen Granson and Richardson on an option route where Richardson expected the tight end to sit, and he continued out. These things happen in the preseason—that’s why it exists. It also encompasses what we expect of the young quarterback—volatility.

That volatility comes when Richardson has only started 17 games since high school, and at the hardest position in sports. It should be expected, and while it may ultimately prove to be frustrating, the tantalizing highlights will keep fans coming back no matter how the season turns out. 

There aren’t many new narratives left to release on Richardson. Colts fans know what’s at stake, as well as the rest of the NFL. On September 8th, all eyes will be on Lucas Oil Stadium as the answer to the Anthony Richardson question will begin to be revealed. 

The game itself played out much like the reports from the combined practice on Tuesday. The Colts defense dominated the Cincinnati backups, who struggled to move the ball unless they were calling a screen. Logan Woodside was constantly harassed, and went down on a combined sack from DeForest Buckner and Laitu Latu. The Colts first team defense did exactly what was expected of them. The only storyline would have been if they had struggled. 

Nick Cross looks as though he has ended all speculation on who will start opposite of Julian Blackmon this season. Having gotten the majority of the first team reps this preseason, Cross will be given the opportunity to stamp his name on the job going forward. The Maryland product is now going into his third season, and it is up to him to determine what his role will be in the league going forward. 

Colts GM Chris Ballard has been much maligned by the media and fans each offseason for seemingly “going down with the ship” of young players that he chooses to believe will take a step forward each year. Cross has the potential to prove Ballard right but is full potential hasn’t been fully realized yet. The former scout in Chris Ballard relies heavily on his eye for talent, even if it is currently undeveloped. Ballard believes in his guys, and he has a history of being correct.

Finally, Colts fans were pleased to see rookie wideout AD Mitchell consistently get open and win against press coverage. One of the hardest things for young receivers to do when they enter the league is create separation. Mitchell seems to be ahead of the curve in that regard and may see a greater share of targets directed towards him then usually expected for a rookie. 

Veteran receiver Alec Pierce also looked like he could be headed towards his most productive year as a pro. When fellow wideout Josh Downs returns healthy, Indianapolis will have a passing attack that has four good options, all serving different roles. That is in stark contrast to what Colts fans have been used to over the last decade and beyond. 

It is an exciting time to be a fan of the Indianapolis Colts. Even the national media is enthralled with the potential of this team. It may be because they are shrouded in some mystery, an unknown dynamic that nobody can quite place. Whatever the case may be, hopes are riding high in the Circle City. Now it is time for the Colts to deliver.