Colts already have the blueprint for Anthony Richardson to thrive
The Indianapolis Colts are swinging for the fences with their first-round draft selection in quarterback Anthony Richardson. Richardson is an elite athlete behind center with a unique skill set for the Colts to mold in the NFL. Fortunately, Indianapolis already has the blueprint to ensure that Richardson thrives in Indianapolis. That's because head coach Shane […]
The Indianapolis Colts are swinging for the fences with their first-round draft selection in quarterback Anthony Richardson. Richardson is an elite athlete behind center with a unique skill set for the Colts to mold in the NFL.
Fortunately, Indianapolis already has the blueprint to ensure that Richardson thrives in Indianapolis. That's because head coach Shane Steichen was front and center for the development of Jalen Hurts with the Philadelphia Eagles.
Hurts reached another level while operating Steichen's offense in Philly. His ability to hurt defenses with his arm and legs unlocked the scheme. The same plan would fit Richardson's skill set.
Richardson was one of the most dynamic players in all of college football thanks to how effective he was throwing the ball down the field and making big plays with his legs.
Furthermore, the newest Colts quarterback is well-aware of the success that Steichen and Hurts enjoyed together with the Eagles. In fact, he was watching the Eagles on their road to the Super Bowl.
“Oh yeah, definitely. I was watching all last year," Richardson said about his familiarity with Steichen's offense. "I love Jalen Hurts so I was watching them mainly because of him. I’m pretty much familiar with what they’re going to run and I’m excited to get in it.”
Steichen's offense was the best rushing attack in the NFL with the Eagles. His scheme puts his quarterback in positions to succeed either through the air or ojn the ground on any given play.
That puts a ton of stress on defenses. There's read-option and RPO action. Additionally, there's play action, designed quarterback runs, and deep shots down the field. If last season's Eagles' offense is any indication, Steichen will throw the kitchen sink at defenses.
Anthony Richardson is a dynamic playmaker that already has an idea of operating the offense that he's getting into. That's a very encouraging sign as the Indianapolis Colts have hitched its wagon to him.