Pittman’s Gritty Performance Secures Colts’ Win
In a display of unwavering determination, Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. played through a nagging back injury to score the decisive touchdown in Sunday’s 20-17 victory over the Tennessee Titans.
A Tough Decision
After consulting with his father, former NFL running back Michael Pittman Sr., and other parties, Pittman decided to push through the pain and take the field. “I just feel like we have so much left that we’re playing for,” Pittman said. “As long as it’s out there, I’m going to keep going.”
A Game-Changing Play
Pittman’s physical 10-yard touchdown catch from quarterback Joe Flacco with 7:27 remaining proved to be the turning point in the game. He outdueled Tennessee’s No. 1 cornerback L’Jarius Sneed for the jump ball in the end zone, securing the Colts’ win.
Praise from Coaches and Teammates
Colts coach Shane Steichen praised Pittman’s toughness, saying, “When we needed a play, he made the big-time play.” Fellow receiver Alec Pierce added, “He’s super tough. Once he told me what it was, I knew he’d play.”
A Week-to-Week Situation
Pittman acknowledged that dealing with his injury will be a week-to-week situation and that his status could change. “We did consider every single option,” he said. “And, honestly, [injured reserve] is still not off the table.”
Flacco Steps In Again
With Anthony Richardson continuing to deal with an oblique injury, the Colts turned to Joe Flacco for a second straight start. Steichen said he decided “late in the week” to opt for Flacco because Richardson “just wasn’t there yet.”
Richardson’s Progress
Richardson, who was the Colts’ emergency No. 3 QB Sunday, wanted to play but said he did not push back on his coach’s decision. “Anything for the team,” Richardson told ESPN. “If they feel like it’s best for me to sit another week, I’m listening to them.”
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