Colts Reportedly ‘Not Optimistic’ Andrew Luck Will Play Against Texans
According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Indianapolis Colts are “not optimistic” that quarterback Andrew Luck will be available for Sunday’s pivotal game against the Houston Texans:
As of last week, Colts were not optimistic Andrew Luck would be able to play Sunday vs. Houston; doctors will have their say this week.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) December 14, 2015
Luck’s original timetable for recovery from a lacerated kidney he suffered in Week 9 against the Denver Broncos was 4-6 weeks. Sunday’s game against the Houston Texans would put him exactly at 6 weeks, so he may be out a little longer than initially anticipated.
Still, Luck has made progress in his recovery. He’s been able to throw in consecutive weeks and was even able to do conditioning drills this past week. However, he still has yet to participate in practice.
Nov 22, 2015; Atlanta, GA, USA; Indianapolis Colts quarterback Charlie Whitehurst (center) talks with quarterback Matt Hasselbeck (8) as he holds a tablet computer on the sideline in the fourth quarter of their game against the Atlanta Falcons at the Georgia Dome. The Colts won 24-21. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports
With the Texans only a week away, it may be wishful thinking to expect Luck to be able to play so soon. With Matt Hasselbeck forced to leave the 4th quarter on Sunday with a rib injury, the Colts quarterback situation is clearly uncertain:
"“He took a couple big shots there,” said Pagano on Hasselbeck’s injury status in his post-game presser. “Basically, the ribs that he’s dealing with. We’ll obviously know a lot more tomorrow.”"
That means the Colts could be forced to turn to 3rd-string quarterback Charlie Whitehurst in what looks like it will be a season deciding game for AFC South supremacy against two 6-7 teams between them and the Texans.
However, they are not alone in their quarterback conundrum, as the Texans may be forced to turn to backup T.J. Yates, as their starter Brian Hoyer was knocked out of Sunday’s game against the Patriots with a concussion.
It’s ironic that the Colts most meaningful game of the season could be played in a battle of backup quarterbacks.
Dec 13, 2015; Jacksonville, FL, USA; Indianapolis Colts quarterback Charlie Whitehurst (6) looks to pass in the third quarter against the Jacksonville Jaguars at EverBank Field. The Jacksonville Jaguars won 51-16. Mandatory Credit: Logan Bowles-USA TODAY Sports