NFL power rankings Week 12: Colts rise after Anthony Richardson's stellar game

The Indianapolis Colts (5-6) snapped a three-game losing streak with a massive 28-27 upset win over the New York Jets (3-8) on Sunday.

In his first game back following a two-game stint on the bench, quarterback Anthony Richardson put together the best game of his career against the Jets.

The electric 22-year-old completed 20-of-30 passes for 272 yards, one touchdown, no interceptions and a 106.5 passer rating while adding 10 carries for 32 rushing yards and two rushing touchdowns — including the go-ahead score late in the fourth quarter.

Richardson's performance reminded everyone what the Colts saw in his potential as the fourth overall pick during the 2023 NFL draft.

In doing so, the Colts now have a positive outlook with two games remaining before the bye week.

NFL power rankings Week 12

With the win on the road, the Colts rose a few spots in the Week 12 NFL power rankings, according to Vinnie Iyer of Sporting News.

18. Indianapolis Colts 5-6 (21)

"The Colts went back to Anthony Richardson, and it paid off with big pass plays and timely running from the second-year QB. The win over the Jets was huge to keep them in the AFC wild-card race," Iyer wrote.

While the Jets had the worse record, their defense was considered a top-half unit in the NFL. So it was extremely encouraging to see Richardson perform the way he did.

Things won't be easy for the Colts over the next two weeks as they host the Detroit Lions (9-1) and then are on the road against the New England Patriots (3-8) before the bye week.

Still, it was a step in the right direction for the Colts after what seemed to be downward trajectory just a few weeks ago.