The sudden retirement of Indianapolis Colts quarterback Andrew Luck had seemingly left the franchise in a state of flux.
The team had enjoyed quite the resurgence in 2018 and all signs pointed to an even bigger year going into the 2019 NFL season before things came to a screeching halt with Luck's decision to retire. The onus has now fallen on quarterback Jacoby Brissett to help the Colts' realize the high goals they set for themselves this offseason.
Fortunately, he has already had plenty of experience filling in for Luck after serving as the full-fledged starter in his stead during the 2017 NFL season. While the Colts may have gone 4-12 that year, Brissett was able to prove himself as a viable starter after throwing for 3,098 yards, 13 touchdowns, and seven interceptions. He also managed to tack on 260 yards and four touchdowns with his legs.
Since then, Indianapolis has fielded plenty of interest from quarterback-hungry teams hoping to acquire one of the most quality backups in the NFL. Despite their various roster needs, the Colts decided to hold on to Brissett for safekeeping and their patience has now paid off more than ever.
It is safe to say that he did all he could to ensure that the team is in good hands heading into the post-Luck era after completing 21-of-27 passes for 190 yards and two touchdowns in Week 1 versus the Los Angeles Chargers. Although his numbers were not exactly mind-boggling, the performance solidified his ability to lead and maintain this offense.
The Colts relied on a healthy balance of pass and run, however, there was certainly an emphasis on the latter thanks to the Chargers' porous defense that allowed running back Marlon Mack to chew them up for 174 yards and a touchdown on 25 carries. His efforts were made much easier by Brissett keeping them honest with his efficiency in the passing game. More importantly, the 26-year-old showed plenty of poise by leading Indianapolis on a 15-point rally in the second half.
Had it not been for an uncharacteristic day from kicker Adam Vinatieri, they may very well have completed the comeback. Unfortunately, his three missed kicks ultimately proved to be the deciding factor. Since there is no way to account for arguably the greatest kicker in NFL history suddenly having an off day, the fault hardly lies with the quarterback in this one.
Brissett is now in the transition period of going from a quality backup to a full-fledged starter. As a result, expectations will be much higher from here on out. There is no question that his numbers fell short of what Colts' fans became accustomed to with Luck under center last season, however, that was to be expected after suddenly being handed the keys to the offense this offseason.
Overall Grade: Solid B
Given his current predicament, Brissett did enough to earn a solid B-rating in the first game of the season. Not only was he able to develop quite a rapport with wide receiver T.Y. Hilton, but he also proved to be a shrewd field general in his decision-making. Given the strong supporting cast that the Colts built around him since his last stint as the starter, he will have plenty of help in keeping their playoff hopes alive this time around.
