Indianapolis Colts stun with a 17-3 lead over the Pittsburgh Steelers in the first half

The Pittsburgh Steelers, currently undefeated, were heavily favored to beat the Indianapolis Colts, who have not had a great start to the 2024 season. From issues with Anthony Richardson's accuracy to holes in the Colts' run defense, the 1-2 Colts have struggled so far.

Yet you wouldn't know it judging by how they've played in the first half against the Steelers. The Colts came out swinging, with Richardson making several great throws, as well as making a few good runs to lead the drive to a Jonathan Taylor touchdown.

According to ESPN's Stephen Holder, "before the Colts' 70-yard scoring drive to start today's game, the Steelers hadn't allowed an opening drive TD since Week 14 of last season against the Patriots."

The Steelers offense, meanwhile, has struggled to get moving, even with a questionable penalty call that gave them a first down. Isaiah Land was flagged for roughing the passer, though many analysts found it questionable. Still, despite being gifted the first down, the Steelers did nothing with it. The Colts defense, which has not played well up until now, kept the Steelers from getting any points until the last second of the half.

Unfortunately, Richardson had to leave the game after a hip injury. Flacco was sent in for one snap, only to have Richardson attempt another play; however, head coach Shane Steichen strangely opted to have his injured quarterback attempt to run the ball, which led to Richardson leaving the game for the rest of the day.

Flacco stepped in, and has performed well, leading the Colts to their second touchdown of the day with a pass to Josh Downs. They followed that up with a field goal from Matt Gay.

The defense, meanwhile, has kept pressure on the Steelers offense throughout the game. They've recovered fumbles, sacked Justin Fields, and forced turnovers.

At the end of the half, Michael Pittman, Jr. already had over 100 receiving yards and five catches, while Jonathan Taylor had 13 carries for 50 yards. Richardson had three completions for 71 yards before getting injured, while Flacco went nine of 14 for 84 yards and one touchdown.

The Steelers will have the ball in the second half, and be desperately looking to dig themselves out of a sizable hole.