Colts QB Anthony Richardson Faces Large Fine for Helmets-to-Helmet Hit in Loss to Lions.
Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson has been fined $22,511 for unnecessary roughness after lowering his helmet during a run against Detroit Lions defensive back Brian Branch.
Although there was no penalty called during the game, the league reviewed the hit and determined Richardson intentionally lowered his helmet into Branch. On review, both players appeared to lower their heads to brace for contact, leading to the fine being issued.
This is the first time Richardson has been fined by the NFL, and notably, he was the only quarterback in the league to receive a fine this week. The fine adds to the disappointment following a poor offensive showing, as the Colts only managed six points in a failed effort to defend their home field against the Lions. In the second half, Indianapolis was shut out, punting on four of five drives.
However, Richardson’s individual performance wasn’t poor. The second-year quarterback was connecting with his receivers and had almost 100 yards of offense nullified by costly penalties. Richardson threw for 172 yards on 11 completions and added 61 rushing yards on 10 carries.
The loss marked the first time this season the Colts scored fewer than 10 points in a game. If Richardson and the Colts hope to reach the playoffs, they may need to win out.