Jenna Watson/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK

Indianapolis Colts Eliminated From Playoff Contention; Look Ahead to 2024

Originally posted on Gridiron Heroics | By John Galletley | Last updated 1/7/24

The Indianapolis Colts were fighting for their playoff lives in Week 18 against the Houston Texans. With a win, they would clinch the playoffs. However, with a loss, they would be eliminated from playoffs. Unfortunately, for Colts fans, Indianapolis came up short when it mattered most.

Indianapolis Colts Lose to the Houston Texans 23-19

Late in the fourth quarter, the Houston Texans scored a touchdown to take the lead. However, they missed the extra point, leaving the door open for the Indianapolis Colts.

The Colts managed to drive the football deep down the field. Eventually, they found themselves in a 4th and 1 situation with just over one minute remaining in the game. Colts QB Gardner Minshew attempted to complete a pass to RB Tyler Goodson. Unfortunately, Goodson could not come up with it, essentially sealing the Colts’ fate.

When asked about that play in a postgame press conference, Minshew said:

“I’d go back with him (Goodson) every time. I would throw it to him every time. I was equally responsible for that play not working.” -Gardner Minshew

On top of this, the Colts attempted a 57-yard field goal earlier in the game. Despite it being a long field goal attempt, K Matt Gay could not come up with it. He made three other field goals in this game but that one ended up hitting the upright. As a result, the Colts had to go for it during the above fourth down situation instead of settling for a field goal.

Looking Ahead to 2024

With a 9-8 record, the Colts have a lot to look forward to in 2024. For starters, they hope to have star RB Jonathan Taylor for a full season. He only played 10 games in 2023.

Taylor missed the first four games of the season due to officially being on the PUP list. However, there was heavy speculation that it was because of a contract dispute. Right after he got off of that list, it was revealed that Taylor received a 3-year, $42 million extension from the Colts.

On top of this, Indianapolis will want to see what they have with their young phenom in QB Anthony Richardson. Unfortunately, he suffered a devastating shoulder injury earlier this year that knocked him out for the rest of the season. Now, he will look to make a full recovery from that injury in the offseason. Once Richardson does that, the Colts can see what their ceiling is with this promising young quarterback leading the way.

This article first appeared on Gridiron Heroics and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: