Gardner Minshew Shows Why Colts Signed Him in Win Over Texans

Gardner Minshew came in for relief of the injured Anthony Richardson as the Indianapolis Colts defeated the Houston Texans, 31-20.

When the Indianapolis Colts signed free-agent quarterback Gardner Minshew over the offseason, it was with the understanding that they would continue searching for their long-term answer at the position.

If Minshew had to start for them throughout the year, fine. Head coach Shane Steichen would make it work after overseeing Minshew as his offensive coordinator for the past two years with the Philadelphia Eagles. However, if the Colts found their younger, long-term option and Minshew had to play briefly either until his counterpart was ready or in relief if they got hurt, the Colts would be in an advantageous situation having Minshew.

Unfortunately for the Colts, they did see their young star quarterback, Anthony Richardson, leave a game early on Sunday against the Houston Texans, as a concussion took him out of the contest. However, Minshew picked up where Richardson left off after an impressive start, leading the Colts to a 31-20 victory.

Gardner Minshew didn't notice anything with Richardson on the sidelines in the two series after the hit. Trainers came and told him to be ready.

— Joel A. Erickson (@JoelAErickson) September 17, 2023

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The veteran would lead three more scoring drives (including two touchdowns), ultimately going 19-of-23 passing (82.6%) for 171 yards (7.4 YPA), 1 touchdown, no turnovers, and a passer rating of 112.1.

With Minshew in the backfield, the offense operated efficiently, particularly early on. His first two scoring drives were for touchdowns, and they averaged 75.5 yards on 10 plays. The following field-goal drive even went 56 yards on 9 plays.

To add an even more impressive element, Minshew was thrown in while also taking snaps from the Colts' backup center. Starter Ryan Kelly also left the game due to a concussion, and Wesley French held his own while helping Minshew move the ball.

Moving forward, Richardson will need to progress through and clear the league's concussion protocol in order to return. Owner Jim Irsay sounded optimistic while speaking to reporters following the game, but concussions are different for everyone.

Until Richardson makes it back, Minshew leads the Colts offense, whether that be just through the early week of practice next week or even next Sunday's game against the Baltimore Ravens.

Stay tuned to Horseshoe Huddle for updates on Richardson and Minshew.

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