Former Stratford High School, and current Indianapolis Colts quarterback, Andrew Luck is doubtful for this Thursday night’s Thanksgiving game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, because of a concussion he suffered last week against the Tennessee Titans. No one knew that Luck had the injury until he went into the training room after his media obligations where he was diagnosed with these symptoms.
Luck realizing that something wasn’t right, and then going to get himself checked by the training staff, and the team doctors realizing that he had a concussion, is a positive sign that players and teams are starting weigh the big picture, over the here and now.
It would have been easy for both the player and trainers to overlook not feeling at 100 percent after his interviews. With the Steelers just four days after the Titans, Luck could have just brushed off not feeling well. But, even if Luck had symptoms that didn’t linger past Sunday evening, it would have been hard for the Colts quarterback to get cleared by the NFL.
Per the Indy Star: According to the league’s Head, Neck and Spine Committee’s protocols, the steps are as follows: Step 1 involves rest. Step 2 includes some cardiovascular activity, such as a stationary bike, if there is no recurrence of symptoms. Step 3 involves aerobic exercise and strength training. Step 4 involves non-contact football activities. Step 5 is full participation in practice.
So let’s say hypothetically Luck was feeling no more symptoms by Monday. He would then have to get past some cardio workouts on the first day. Then, increase his workload with some weights and higher intensity exercise on the next day, which would be Tuesday. By Wednesday he’d have to be involved with non-contact practice. Then Thursday, game day, he’d be expected to be in full practice; which he wouldn’t be able to do.
It’s a shame for Colts fans that Luck won’t be able to lead them against a Pittsburgh team averaging 23.8 points per game and a passing attack that ranks seventh in the league. Indianapolis’ pass defense ranks near the bottom of the league; with only Tennessee and Cleveland posting worst numbers than the Colts. And, the defense is allowing 26.5 points per game.
So, relining on backup Scott Tolzien to keep up with the Pittsburgh offense will be a tall order; as compared to having their former Pro Bowl quarterback to lead any comeback that may be needed.
Luck sitting this game out may result in a loss on Thanksgiving night. However, preserving Luck for not only the rest of this season, but through the next years of Lucks career with the Colts, should be the most important thing for the Colts and their fans.
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