Both Philip Rivers and Cooper Kupp know football. Each has been around long enough to know what works, what doesn't, and what their own limitations are. But make no mistake, the younger player certainly respects the new Indianapolis Colts quarterback.
Part of the lore of Rivers has to do not only with the high-end success he had during his career (before re-signing with Indy after being retired for five years, of course), but how the quarterback handled himself. He presents himself as the clean-living QB with a heavy dose of being a Southern gentleman.
By all accounts, he is exactly that. This means that while he might have been difficult for defensive coordinators to scheme against, he was also a genuine human being who was liked by his teammates and fellow players. Don't mistake that for Rivers not having a strong drive to succeed, though, because he certainly wants that.
Cooper Kupp has a funny and respectful opinion of the Indianapolis Colts signing Philip Rivers
When asked ahead of the Seahawks and Colts' Week 15 showdown about Indianapolis signing Philip Rivers, Cooper Kupp had a nearly perfect response. He said, "Shoot, danggammit. Shoot, it’s Philip Rivers. His resume speaks for itself."
While it might seem to some that Kupp was poking fun at Rivers' folksy mannerisms, quite the opposite is true. The Seahawks receiver, like everyone else in the NFL, understands that even a rusty Rivers is probably capable of greatness. While Indy adding the quarterback certainly has a funny aspect, teams know the move could also make Indianapolis more dangerous.
Head coach Mike Macdonald was also asked, of course, about potentially facing the Colts with Philip Rivers behind center (Indy has not officially said whether Rivers or Riley Leonard will start against Seattle), and he said if anyone can come out of a five-year retirement and do well, it is Rivers. Seattle is obviously preparing to face him.
What the Colts don't yet know is how successful the 44-year-old quarterback can be immediately. There is a decent chance that, should he play against the Seahawks, things look brutal for Indy. Seattle has an elite defense, so even with a healthy Daniel Jones, the Colts might have struggled. Rivers hasn't played since 2020, and it would be a miracle if he were a quick success.
The reason to add Philip Rivers isn't to specifically defeat the Seahawks, but to try to get two wins in the last four games. That might be what it takes to get to the postseason. A win against Seattle would be terrific, but Rivers might need that game to get settled. Beating the Jacksonville Jaguars and Houston Texans in the last two weeks would be much sweeter.