Current Colts Look Back on Former Head Coach Frank Reich

The Indianapolis Colts are set to take on former head coach Frank Reich and the Carolina Panthers on Sunday.

Carolina Panthers head coach Frank Reich was the head coach of the Indianapolis Colts to start the 2022 season. He didn't complete his fifth year with the Colts, because he was fired almost exactly a year ago.

His rebuilding Panthers got their first win last week against the Houston Texans, and the Colts head to Charlotte to take on their former coach and the Panthers on Sunday.

Several members of the current Colts squad have good memories of Reich and his time in Indianapolis.

"Yeah, it’s going to be really nice just to go see Coach Frank (Reich)," said running back Jonathan Taylor at media availability this week. "Of course, we have business to handle, but you just talk about a great person – that’s Coach Frank."

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Taylor rushed for nearly 3,500 yards in just over two seasons under Reich and became one of the top running backs in the NFL.

Reich focused on the offensive side of the ball, but he was the leader of the whole team.

"Ah man, first impressions," pondered linebacker Zaire Franklin this week. "Just a genuine person, very down to Earth, humble, competitive, knew he was a Pennsylvania guy like myself, Big-33 alum like myself. I think that was something that we connected on early. I feel like he just lived up to everything that I thought about him, to be honest with you."

Franklin and his defense will be tasked with stopping rookie quarterback Bryce Young and Reich's offense.

“Knowing Frank, I’m expecting a wrinkle or two – just because I know he’s competitive like that," said Franklin. "Obviously, Bryce is capable. Great, young player – quick release, seems like he’s got a good grasp of what they got going on. Obviously, they got the veteran receiver in (Adam) Thielen. He’s been making plays all year. We’ve got our work cut out for us but it’s a good challenge for us."

Head coach Shane Steichen and Reich crossed paths earlier in their careers. Steichen was an offensive quality control coach for the San Diego Chargers in 2014 and 2015 while Reich was the offensive coordinator. 

"Yeah, I’ve got a ton of respect for Frank," said Steichen this week. "Very intelligent football coach, understands the game, but even a better human being. The two years I was with him out there in San Diego, just the wisdom he brought being a former player, his leadership abilities. I’ve got a ton of respect for him and looking forward to seeing him on Sunday."

The Colts face the Panthers on Sunday at 4:05 p.m. EST on CBS. ESPN's Gamecast gives the Colts a 60% chance of winning and moving to 4-5 on the season.

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