How did Anthony Richardson perform in IndianapolColts preseason opener?

Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson returned to the field Sunday for the first time since his rookie season ended due to a shoulder injury.

During the preseason opener against the Denver Broncos , it was expected that the Colts' starters would be on the field for "one or two series " at Lucas Oil Stadium, head coach Shane Steichen told reporters Friday.

Richardson and the starting offense were on the field for exactly two drives and a total of seven plays.

It certainly seemed like the Colts wanted the starting offense to get their feet wet before giving way to the second and third-team offenses.

Even with the incredibly small sample, there were still some notes to take away from Richardson's first game action since Week 5 of last season.

The first drive was a three-and-out. On third down, Richardson missed a throw high to tight end Kylen Granson.

On the second drive, backed up against their own end zone, Richardson did a good job hitting a check-down to tight end Mo Alie-Cox, who gained some yards after the catch for a 19-yard gain.

However, the drive stalled out three plays later. Richardson had to scramble for one yard before his third-down throw to Granson on a drag route was slightly behind the tight end.

In all, Richardson was 2-of-4 passing for 25 yards.

There shouldn't be too many overreactions from this game. Richardson clearly needs more reps, and it seem the Colts had a distinct plan to limit his reps in the opener.

He should play much more during the second preseason game against the Arizona Cardinals on Saturday, Aug. 17.