The Indianapolis Colts, and running back Jonathan Taylor, has had an underwhelming season this year. The team started the campaign with a loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars, and their struggle continued throughout the season. With nine wins and eight losses, the team is now sitting in the third spot in the AFC South, behind the Houston Texans and Jacksonville Jaguars.
The Colts underwhelming season hit a new low with their season finale loss in Week 18. Besides the struggle of the team, Taylor has also witnessed setbacks throughout the season, which reignited with his recent injury in the game against the Houston Texans.
Jonathan Taylor injury update
During the Colts vs. Texans clash, Jonathan Taylor left the field with what appeared to be a troublesome heel or ankle injury. The third quarter witnessed his abrupt departure, causing immediate tension among fans. Initially labeled as doubtful to return, the RB’s absence left a void in the Colts’ offensive lineup, with Zack Moss taking up the reins in his stead.
However, much to the surprise and relief of the Colts faithful, the veteran defied the odds and made an unexpected return to the game. Prior to his injury scare, he displayed his trademark prowess by amassing a staggering 165 yards on 21 carries. He ended the match by running for 188 yards on 30 carries along with a 49-yard touchdown run.
This momentary setback echoes Jonathan Taylor’s journey in the 2023 season, which started with contractual uncertainties. The RB, entering the final year of his previous contract with the Colts, opted for a holdout in pursuit of a more lucrative extension. Amid the ongoing discussion about the diminishing values of the players at this position, his persistence paid off with a handsome three-year, $42 million deal, securing his future with the franchise.
Texans defeat Colts
In the showdown between the 9-7 Texans and the 9-7 Colts, the battle for a coveted spot in the 2023-2024 NFL playoffs emerged as a tense must-win clash. The game carried immense weight, as it would determine which team would advance to the postseason and which would face elimination. Ultimately, the Texans emerged victorious, and secured an AFC wild-card berth by winning over the Colts with a score of 23-19.
The game showcased the brilliance of the Texans’ rookie quarterback CJ Stroud, whose stellar performance paved the way for the team to a decisive win. Under the guidance of head coach DeMeco Ryans, the team secured a playoff spot in their inaugural season. The rookie star completed 20 of 26 passes for 264 yards and contributed two crucial touchdowns.
Wide receiver Nico Collins proved instrumental by amassing an impressive 195 receiving yards. The Texans’ triumph opens up the possibility of claiming the AFC South crown, pending a Jaguars loss.
On the flipside, the Colts’ offense struggled to find its rhythm in the crucial game. Their QB Gardner Minshew II faced formidable opposition by finishing the game 13-of-24 for 141 yards. The defeat extends their quest for an AFC South title to an eighth consecutive year, as they last claimed divisional glory in 2014.
