Joe Flacco will remain the Colts' starting quarterback, even after the offense recorded its lowest output of the season.

 MINNEAPOLIS -- The Indianapolis Colts’ decision to switch quarterbacks didn’t unfold as anticipated. In Joe Flacco's first game as the starter, the team registered its lowest offensive performance of the season, tallying just 13 points, 227 total yards, and only 13 first downs in a 21-13 loss to the Minnesota Vikings.

Despite the disappointing result, head coach Shane Steichen remained firm in his commitment to Flacco, affirming that he would continue as the starting quarterback. When asked about Flacco’s status post-game, Steichen replied, "Right now, yes."

Steichen's choice to elevate Flacco from backup to starter came under scrutiny after he announced the change on Tuesday, citing Flacco's ability to provide the best chance to win. However, the Colts fell to 4-5, with their offense struggling against a stout defense led by Brian Flores, particularly in the first half where they mustered only 92 yards and 62 passing yards.

Indianapolis finished the game with a third-down conversion rate of just 27%, with Flacco completing only 3 of 9 attempts for 47 yards in those situations. Overall, he completed 16 of 27 passes for 179 yards and threw one interception, which was the result of a questionable decision that allowed Vikings cornerback Byron Murphy Jr. to make a play on a third-down route.

Steichen assessed Flacco’s performance as "fine," acknowledging his experience in tough environments. He emphasized the need to reevaluate the team’s offensive approach moving forward, especially with eight games remaining in the season.

While Flacco’s struggles were evident, the Colts also missed the dynamic playmaking ability of Anthony Richardson, who had been sidelined. Richardson’s impressive deep-ball throwing and running skills were notably absent; Flacco only managed two completions over 20 yards, and his average of 7.7 air yards per attempt was the lowest for the Colts this season.

On the ground, the Colts faced significant challenges against the Vikings' formidable run defense, finishing with a season-low 68 rushing yards. Running back Jonathan Taylor, who had rushed for 105 yards the previous week, was limited to just 48 yards against Minnesota.

Wide receiver Alec Pierce commented on the impact of the quarterback switch, noting that the play calling had changed significantly, reducing the number of run-pass option plays.

Despite the offensive woes, the Colts’ defense stood out, forcing three turnovers, including a strip sack by Grover Stewart, which was returned for a touchdown by Kenny Moore II—Indianapolis’ only touchdown of the game.