Colts Stage Stunning Comeback to Clip Patriots, Remain Playoff Hopeful
New England – The Indianapolis Colts pulled off a heartstopping 25-24 victory over the New England Patriots on Sunday, keeping their playoff hopes alive with a thrilling comeback. The win, capped by a gutsy two-point conversion in the dying seconds, was particularly sweet as it marked the return of offensive tackle Bernhard Raimann from a two-game absence due to a knee injury.
For most of the game, things looked bleak for the Colts. Trailing 24-17 with just twelve seconds remaining, their chances seemed slim. But then, wide receiver Alec Pierce snagged a touchdown pass from quarterback Anthony Richardson, pulling them within one point.
Head Coach Shane Steichen, demonstrating unwavering faith in his team, made the audacious decision to go for the win. A two-point conversion attempt from the two-yard line was called. Richardson powered his way into the end zone, sending the Colts sideline into a frenzy.
“I knew we had the momentum,” Richardson recounted after the game. “We had fought back, and we were going to leave it all on the field. Coach trusted us to make a play, and we delivered.”
The game-winning drive was a microcosm of the Colts’ performance. Despite Raimann’s absence, the offensive line had battled valiantly, giving Richardson time to operate. And on defense, they’d kept the high-powered Patriots offense in check for much of the game.
The Patriots had one last chance to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat. Kicker Joey Slye lined up for a desperate 68-yard field goal attempt as time expired. The ball sailed agonizingly close, but ultimately landed just short. The Colts’ bench erupted, celebrating a remarkable win that spoke volumes about their character and resilience.
NFL Playoff Picture Takes Shape
Sunday’s slate of games saw other major shifts in the NFL playoff race. The New York Jets, led by veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers, suffered their ninth loss of the season in a 21-26 defeat against the Seattle Seahawks. At 3-9, their playoff aspirations are dwindling fast.
Meanwhile, the Pittsburgh Steelers moved to 9-4 on the season, staying firmly in the playoff hunt with a 44-38 shootout victory over the Cincinnati Bengals. The Bengals, led by quarterback Joe Burrow, have now lost eight games and face an uphill battle to reach the postseason.
The Colts’ win over the Patriots, a team considered a serious playoff contender, sends a statement to the rest of the league. With Raimann back in the lineup and their confidence soaring, they are poised to make a late-season push for a playoff berth.
What were the final moments that led to the Indianapolis Colts’ comeback victory against the New England Patriots?
## Interview: Colts’ Thrilling Comeback Victory
**Interviewer:** Joining us today is Alex Reed, a seasoned NFL analyst, to discuss the Indianapolis Colts’ unbelievable comeback win against the New England Patriots. Alex Reed, welcome to the show!
**Alex Reed:** Thanks for having me.
**Interviewer:** That was an absolute nail-biter of a game. The Colts were down late, but somehow pulled off a stunning victory. Can you walk us through those crucial final moments?
**Alex Reed:** Absolutely. The Colts were trailing 24-17 with only twelve seconds remaining, and it looked like the Patriots had the game sealed. But then, a miraculous touchdown catch by Alec Pierce brought them within one point. The tension in the stadium was palpable. Everyone was on the edge of their seats. [[1](https://www.indystar.com/story/sports/nfl/colts/2024/12/01/colts-vs-patriots-nfl-game-today-2024-dec-01-live-football-scores-week-13-schedule-stats-results/76640606007/)]
**Interviewer:** And then came the audacious decision by Head Coach Shane Steichen to go for the two-point conversion instead of tying the game with an extra point. What was your reaction to that call?
**Alex Reed:** It was a gutsy move, no doubt about it! But it showed Steichen’s faith in his team and his offensive line, especially with the return of Bernhard Raimann from injury. [ [1](https://www.indystar.com/story/sports/nfl/colts/2024/12/01/colts-vs-patriots-nfl-game-today-2024-dec-01-live-football-scores-week-13-schedule-stats-results/76640606007/)]Anthony Richardson powering his way into the end zone solidified a fantastic comeback.
**Interviewer:** This win keeps the Colts’ playoff hopes alive. What does this victory mean for them moving forward?
**Alex Reed:** This was a huge win psychologically. It shows the Colts have the heart and determination to fight back and never give up, even when things look bleak. It’s a big boost for their morale and has given them a much-needed injection of momentum. They still have a tough road ahead, but this win could be the spark they need to make a late playoff push.
**Interviewer:** Well said, Alex Reed. Thanks so much for your insights on this exhilarating Colts victory!
