Anthony Richardson and Will Levis entered the NFL last season as highly regarded quarterbacks, both boasting strong arms and significant potential. Draft analysts ranked them among the top four quarterbacks in their class, with Richardson selected fourth overall by the Indianapolis Colts and Levis taken 33rd by the Tennessee Titans.
As both players approach the end of their second NFL seasons, a matchup between them remains elusive, as they will not face each other this Sunday. The Titans and Colts are grappling with questions about their respective franchise quarterbacks.
First-year Titans head coach Brian Callahan announced Levis’ benching this week, citing his struggles in recent games. “He’s had two games that really have been a struggle for him, and we need better play,” Callahan said. “I still believe very much in Will.” This decision marks another chapter in Levis’ development.
Richardson has missed the last two matchups against the Titans due to injuries, and in his only start this season, he exited early with a shoulder issue. Levis, who began last season as a backup to Ryan Tannehill, has faced challenges, including a league-high 17 turnovers. After losing three straight games and five of their last six, the Titans (3-11) are exploring new options at quarterback.
Richardson can relate to Levis’ struggles. After a two-week benching for subpar performance, he regained his starting role but has faced his own challenges with turnovers. In a critical 31-13 loss to Denver last week, Richardson’s performance raised concerns about the Colts’ (6-8) playoff hopes. Unlike Levis, who will be replaced by Mason Rudolph, Richardson aims to lead the Colts to victory in their final three games to secure a postseason berth. “We’re just trying to finish strong this year,” Richardson said.
The Titans hope that a brief period on the sidelines will allow Levis to gain a fresh perspective on the game. “He’s shown improvement,” Callahan noted. “There’s a lot he has improved at, but we need more consistency.”
Challenges Ahead for Richardson
Defending against Richardson poses a unique challenge for the Titans. Following a recent game against the Bengals where quarterback Joe Burrow evaded pressure for an extended period before throwing a touchdown, the Titans recognize Richardson’s running ability. He has five rushing touchdowns this season and has become more involved in the ground game over the past four weeks. “We know he’s a good runner,” said Titans Pro Bowl defensive lineman Jeffery Simmons. “We have to be disciplined.”
Motivation for Taylor
Colts running back Jonathan Taylor experienced a tough lesson last week when a 41-yard touchdown run was nullified after he dropped the ball before crossing the goal line. “It’s a lesson I won’t forget,” Taylor said. “I think if you’re not intrinsically motivated to be the best, this league is going to be tough for you.”
Titans’ Defensive Resurgence
The Titans have improved defensively, ranking among the NFL’s top three teams in total yards and passing yards allowed. Recently, they have also excelled in creating turnovers, recording seven interceptions in their last four games—the most in the league during that stretch. They have forced turnovers on their opponents’ first possessions four times this season, showcasing a newfound opportunistic edge.
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