Colts backups secure victory over Cardinals

In a strategic move, coaches Shane Steichen and Jonathan Gannon chose to rest most of their starters during a recent preseason game, following two joint practices earlier in the week. This decision allowed backup players to showcase their skills, with quarterback Bean making the most of his opportunity. He completed 7 of 9 passes for 94 yards, threw one interception, and scored a touchdown on a 1-yard run in the fourth quarter. Running back Goodson also made an impact, rushing six times for 35 yards and scoring the game’s opening touchdown as he competes for the No. 3 running back position. On the opposing side, Clayton Tune started for the Cardinals, completing 8 of 10 passes for 79 yards and adding a 12-yard touchdown run just before halftime. Desmond Ridder contributed with 6 of 10 passing for 71 yards. Despite a solid performance, the Cardinals struggled with discipline, accumulating 11 penalties compared to just 13 first downs throughout the game. The Colts managed to respond to Arizona's early field goal with a touchdown, but the game was marred by penalties, particularly from a rookie who was flagged multiple times in a single quarter. Notably, Colts punter Rigoberto Sanchez was absent due to the birth of his second child, with rookie Spencer Shrader stepping in to handle punting and kicking duties. As the Colts prepare for their upcoming game against the Bengals, they will look to build on the performances of their backups while addressing the issues highlighted in this matchup.