Flacco, Colts Offense Disappoint NFL Fans in Vikings Loss After Richardson Benching

Taylyn HadleyNovember 4, 2024

David Berding/Getty Images

Following the Minnesota Vikings’ 21-13 victory over the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday night, fans criticized veteran quarterback Joe Flacco and the Colts for their lack of offensive production.

After going scoreless in the first half, the Vikings pulled off a comeback, scoring 14 unanswered points to secure the win and improve to 6-2 on the season, while the Colts fell to 4-5 after back-to-back losses.

Minnesota Vikings @Vikings.@byronmurphy with the big-time INT!!

📺: @SNFonNBC pic.twitter.com/GCaOCZbNGz

Flacco earned his third start of the season on Sunday over 22-year-old Anthony Richardson and completed 16-of-27 passes for 179 yards, with one interception and one fumble.

On the other side of the field, Sam Darnold completed 28-of-34 passes for 290 yards, with three touchdowns and two interceptions. Wide receiver Justin Jefferson contributed with seven receptions for 137 yards.

NFL @NFLJustin. Jefferson. Good. At. Football.

📺: #INDvsMIN on NBC/Peacock
📱: Stream on #NFLPlus pic.twitter.com/45lcyDBb6c

Jefferson also helped put the game away for the Vikings after securing a near-perfect onside kick from the Colts.

Some on social media believe that Flacco, who turns 40 in January, wasn’t the best option to secure a win for the Colts on Sunday.

Following Sunday’s loss to the Vikings, fans are calling for head coach Shane Steichen to bench the 18-year veteran and return to second-year player Richardson.

Zig Fracassi @ZigSportsVoiceFlacco misses another in the flat pass to Sermon…goes for the riskier play…fail on 4th down…get what you deserve…#ForTheShoe

Matt Zemek @MattZemekJoe Flacco had an easy checkdown on 3rd and 2, and he chose to chuck the ball 20 yards down the field instead.

Words fail.

Colts Fan Steven @ocean_sandzJoe Flacco is only 39. He will learn from this one. He might even compete for a Super Bowl 12 years ago.

Colts Coverage @Colts_CoverageIt’s a legitimate joke at this point. Get Joe Flacco off my screen!!!!

Noah Compton @nerlens_Remember folks, the Anthony Richardson benching has nothing to do with his play off, it’s because Joe Flacco gives this team ‘the best chance to win.’

Head Coach Shane Steichen’s words, not mine.

Next Sunday, the Colts will seek redemption as they face the challenge of the 7-2 Buffalo Bills at home.