Richardson came back from a hip injury only to lose his starting job before Week 9. On one hand, it was justifiable; the Colts had a .500 record despite the league’s worst quarterback play. In the short term, Flacco provided the best opportunity for instant gratification.

The Colts are pointing the franchise back in the direction they were supposed to be heading all along. What looked like an exit ramp off the developmental path of Anthony Richardson turned out to be more of an oasis.

Following Sunday's loss, Joe Flacco's record as Indianapolis' starter is 1-3, while Anthony Richardson is 3-3 for the team.