Colts Anthony Richardson Reveals Mindset Ahead of Preseason Start
Throughout training camp, speculation has been rampant on who will be the starting quarterback for the Indianapolis Colts.
While we do not have an answer yet on who the starter will be in the regular season, we do have an answer on who is starting the first preseason game against the Buffalo Bills. Anthony Richardson will get his first start in his first NFL experience on Saturday. The rookie has been working with the starters for much of training camp and will now get a chance to play against another defense.
So when did Richardson know he would be starting? Shortly before Richardson took the practice field on Thursday.
"A few minutes before practice," Richardson admitted. "Coach (Shane Steichen) let me know. I get to go out there and showcase what I can do with the 1's a little bit. My first NFL experience, I'm excited for it."
Head coach Shane Steichen revealed that Richardson and the rest of the starters will play around a quarter on Saturday. The rookie quarterback will undoubtedly have some jitters before he takes the field for the first time. But not all jitters are bad.
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"I know I'm going to be anxious," Richardson noted. "I get to play football again so that's always something big. And then just being on the big stage, even going to Buffalo, I've never been. So, it's a first for everything and I'm excited."
Richardson will be looking to rebound from a rough practice on Thursday. The Colts were in helmets and shorts for a light practice before traveling to Buffalo. But Richardson and the first-team offense struggled, going 5-of-12 (41.7%) passing with some drops and would-be sacks given up.
Although Richardson had a rough day Thursday, he has shown tremendous progress throughout training camp. The rookie quarterback knows that not every day will be perfect. It's how you keep progressing that is important.
"I think I've taken a big step regarding everything," Richardson elaborated. "Whether it's chemistry, play-calling, even just recognition of the defense. I feel like I've grown a lot, but still room for improvement and hopefully I can just keep on pushing."
Going against the Bills' defense will be a big test for Richardson. While you can try to gauge how a player is doing in practice, nothing compares to live football. Richardson is excited to see how he stacks up against another team.
"It lets me know where I'm at," Richardson explained. "So I'm definitely excited to go up against a different opponent instead of going against Zaire (Franklin) and Shaq Leonard every single day. But I'm excited to get to play football again against a new opponent, and we'll see what happens."
Richardson has been praised for his preparation since joining the Colts. It can be hard to pull him away from his playbook at times, and he is constantly asking questions. Because of that preparation, Richardson is ready for whatever is thrown his way on Saturday.
But even with as much preparation as Richardson does, his first start in the NFL is still brand new territory. The first start for any rookie is a big moment in their career.
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The key is to not get too high or too low. Richardson has displayed that mentality throughout training camp and hopes to bring that over to live action. With everything he has been through in his life, Richardson has a great perspective for a 21-year-old.
"Honestly, just everything I've been through," Richardson said when asked how he stays so even-keeled. "My family, and even God, I know everything's not in my hands. I can only control what I can control. I just try to keep that same mindset whether I'm out there on the field or just living my daily life. Just trying to control what I can control and just try to fight through it all."
There are a lot of goals Richardson could have going into Saturday's matchup. Individual numbers and showing that he belongs would be among what most rookies are looking forward to. However, although the games do not count, Richardson wants the W.
"Get a victory," Richardson said with a smile. "First NFL experience, just try to get a victory, just showcase my talents, my ability, and just be a leader and push the team."
It is safe to say all eyes will be on #5 in Buffalo on Saturday.
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