The fight between the Indianapolis Colts and the New England Patriots between the NFL’s youngest QB is highlighted

Indianapolis Colts (5-7) and New England Patriots (3-9) are coming off losses and looking for a win to start December. While there’s a lot to play for between the once bitter AFC rivals, there’s another interesting story from this game: Anthony Richardson and Drake Maye Youngest starting QBs currently in the NFL. With these gunslingers ready to duel on Sunday, it’s time to take a detailed look at each player and what we can expect from an exciting matchup for the future of the NFL.

Anthony Richardson

Colts quarterback Richardson didn’t have the smoothest sophomore season in The Circle City. It’s a bit difficult to look at Richardson’s passing metrics over the eight games played; He completed 90/191 throws (47.1%) for 1,402 yards, 5 touchdowns, and 7 interceptions. He also has 61 carries for 335 rushing yards (5.5 average) and 3 scores. Richardson needs his offensive counterparts to step up against the Patriots to give him a chance as he drops back. Opposite Detroit LionsRichardson was under pressure on nearly 50% of his returns and lacked support from some receivers and tight ends.

We expect Richardson to have a similar performance. New York Jets (20/30 passing for 272 passing yards, 1 TD; 10 carries for 3 rushing yards, 2 TDs). The Patriots are not a good defense against the pass, ranking 22nd in the league in yards allowed per contest, giving Richardson a great opportunity to have a bounce-back performance. They also aren’t that tough against the run, averaging 123.1 rushing yards allowed, which ranks 18th in the NFL. Richardson probably won’t have a buyer Josh Downs (shoulder), so wait Michael Pittman Jr., AD MitchellAnd Alec Pierce to see many targets from the old Florida Gator.

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Drake Maye

Maye, a rookie floor general, was selected third overall in this year’s draft by New England and was initially slotted behind veteran Jacoby Brissett. But when head coach Jerod Mayo placed Maye in the starting lineup, he showed off his athleticism, consistency and leadership at center. Over eight games, Maye compiled 148/226 completions for 1,458 passing yards, 10 touchdowns and 7 interceptions. Maye has also been successful in stepping up the football; He put up 286 yards on 33 carries for an 8.7 average and one touchdown. Indy’s defensive front will arguably be the biggest key to stopping Maye.

The Patriots offense has struggled around Maye this year, ranking last in passing offense (167.3 yards per game). However, Maye is still accurate enough on the ball (65.5%) to make defending pay off. He also armed tight end Hunter Henry and wide receiver DeMario Douglas; Both have the ability to help Maye make a lot of plays. Expect Maye to attack Gus Bradley’s defense and push the ball to challenge Indy’s stopping corps. With the New England offense trying to operate behind the ground attack and Rhamondre Stevenson, the Colts will likely try everything possible to eliminate that and gain possession for Maye.

In conclusion

Richardson and Maye have plenty of room to grow in their young careers, but it should be a fun matchup on Sunday. Richardson is struggling to find a rhythm, but can he get back on track with Shane Steichen’s offense and the playmakers around him? On the other hand, can he avoid strong men like Maye? DeForest Buckner, Curly Stewart, Laiatu LatuAnd Kwity Paye behind a faltering Patriots offensive line? These questions and more will be answered when Indianapolis travels to Foxborough to face the Patriots at Gillette in early December.

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