The Indianapolis Colts will host the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday, a matchup that may see the Colts capitalize on the potential absence of quarterback Kyler Murray. Currently sitting at a record of 4-1, the Colts are favored by more than 7.5 points, particularly with the uncertainty surrounding Murray’s health following a foot injury sustained in last week’s 22-21 loss to the Tennessee Titans.
Daniel Jones, the Colts’ new quarterback, has been in superb form, completing 20 of 29 passes for 212 yards and two touchdowns in a decisive 40-6 victory against the Las Vegas Raiders last week. His performance has pushed his completion percentage to a career-high of 71.3 and his quarterback rating to 105.1 through five games. This marks a significant turnaround for Jones, who struggled with the New York Giants last season before joining the Colts.
Reflecting on his past, Jones acknowledged the toll that constant losing took on him during his time in New York. “I don’t know if I could say I ever hated the game,” he commented. “But those drives back from the stadium after a loss, stuck in traffic, make you think about a lot of things.” His leadership has been pivotal for the Colts, as they have racked up 163 points in their first five games, just shy of the franchise record of 164 set by the 2007 Colts, which featured legends like Peyton Manning and Marvin Harrison.
Unfortunately for the Colts, they received distressing news regarding special teams. Kicker Spencer Shrader suffered a torn ACL and MCL during a game, leading to his season-ending injury. The team has since signed Michael Badgley, who won a tryout after not kicking since July due to a hamstring injury. “I always knew I was going to get back so I just kept a positive mindset,” Badgley remarked.
On the Cardinals’ side, Kyler Murray’s status remains uncertain. After finishing the game last week despite his injury, he missed practice on Wednesday, leaving backup Jacoby Brissett to take the lead in practice. Cardinals coach Jonathan Gannon stated that if Murray is healthy, he will play. If not, the team will rely on Brissett, a veteran with 53 career starts, including 30 with the Colts. Gannon praised Brissett’s professionalism, emphasizing the importance of being prepared at all times.
The Cardinals, currently 2-3, are on a three-game losing streak, raising concerns not just about Murray’s health but also about team morale. Gannon himself has faced scrutiny; he was fined $100,000 for an incident involving running back Emari Demercado after a touchdown opportunity turned into a touchback. Gannon has since apologized to both Demercado and the team.
In terms of injury impact, the Cardinals faced additional setbacks with defensive lineman Darius Robinson not practicing due to a pectoral injury, and seven starters listed on the initial injury report. The Colts also have their share of injury concerns, with six players on their initial report, including starter Kenny Moore II, who is dealing with an Achilles injury.
As the Colts prepare to face the Cardinals, the outcome could hinge significantly on the health of both starting quarterbacks. If Murray is unable to play, Indianapolis will look to extend their winning streak and reinforce their position within the league, while Arizona will aim to halt their losing streak and regain momentum.