The Indianapolis Colts’ first preseason game may have created some early separation in their backup quarterback competition.
CBS Sports included Riley Leonard among its “losers” from Week 1 of the NFL preseason following Indianapolis’ 13-13 tie against the New England Patriots, suggesting Anthony Richardson Sr. gained ground in the battle for the No. 2 job.
Leonard took over for Richardson in the second half and completed 10 of 21 passes for 89 yards with one interception. His turnover came on his second pass attempt when he underthrew a deep ball.
CBS Sports wrote that Leonard “might have just fallen behind” Richardson after the two quarterbacks’ contrasting performances.
Richardson started and completed 11 of 14 passes for 145 yards. He also rushed six times for 53 yards and scored on a quarterback sneak. His lone interception went through the hands of wide receiver Coleman Owen, though Richardson finished the night completing 78.5% of his passes, his best mark in any preseason or regular-season game as an NFL player.
Leonard will get an opportunity to answer.
Head coach Shane Steichen’s preseason plan calls for Leonard to start and play the first half against the Atlanta Falcons on Aug. 22, with Richardson handling the second half.
The two quarterbacks entered training camp splitting second and third-team reps behind starter Daniel Jones. Offensive coordinator Jim Bob Cooter described the competition as “neck and neck” in late July.
After Leonard’s sour first preseason game, Richardson’s stock is trending up.
This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: Riley Leonard named ‘loser’ after Colts preseason opener
Reporting by Duncan Day, Colts Wire / Colts Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Duncan Day, Colts Wire | USA TODAY Network
