Spencer Shrader may have created some separation in the Indianapolis Colts’ kicking competition Saturday.
He went 2-for-2 on field goals against the Atlanta Falcons, connecting from 48 and 53 yards. Blake Grupe, on the other hand, missed his only attempt from 36 yards, pushing it wide right.
While Grupe has been the more steady kicker in practice, Shrader is perfect in the preseason, while Grupe has missed twice.
After the game, head coach Shane Steichen acknowledged the hefty decision ahead.
“Both of those guys are starting kickers in this league, so it’s going to be a big decision for us,” Steichen said, via WISH-TV.
The Colts entered the preseason with Grupe and Shrader battling for the job, and both had compelling cases.
Shrader made 13 of 14 field-goal attempts before tearing his ACL in Week 5 last season. Grupe later joined Indianapolis and went 11-for-11 on field goals over the final five games, including a franchise-record 60-yarder.
Shrader has responded well under game conditions this preseason.
In the opener against the New England Patriots, he drilled a 61-yard field goal to secure a 13-13 tie. His two makes Saturday gave him an additional strong showing when the Colts put the competition under the spotlight.
Grupe’s misses don’t settle the battle, especially after his perfect finish last season. But with roster decisions approaching, Shrader bolstered his argument for the starting spot.
Indianapolis closes the preseason Aug. 29 against the Detroit Lions, giving Steichen and special teams coordinator Brian Mason one more game before the regular season.
This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: Spencer Shrader strengthens case in Colts kicker battle vs. Grupe
Reporting by Duncan Day, Colts Wire / Colts Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Duncan Day, Colts Wire | USA TODAY Network
