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Colts Teammates Rave About Anthony Richardson as Training Camp Begins

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Colts Teammates Rave About Anthony Richardson as Training Camp Begins


As the Indianapolis Colts reported for training camp at Grand Park Sports Complex yesterday, the big question was the health of quarterback Anthony Richardson.

The last time we saw Richardson, he was given a rest day to end the Colts’ mandatory minicamp period. Richardson is coming off shoulder surgery to his throwing arm and had experienced soreness the day before but vowed there was nothing to worry about. Seven weeks later, it seems AR is ready to go for his second training camp.

“I don’t think so,” Colts general manager Chris Ballard declared when asked if Richardson would have any maintenance days in camp. “I’m not expecting any limitations right now.”

Richardson is a full go, meaning the Colts are ready to unleash their full offensive attack. There has been a lot of hype from fans and media alike this offseason about Richardson’s potential in Shane Steichen’s offense. Teammates are also buying into the hype, excited to see what Richardson brings to Year Two.

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It starts with running back Jonathan Taylor, Richardson’s running mate in the backfield. The duo only played two snaps together in 2023, an unfortunate result of two electric offensive weapons dealing with injuries. But 2024 figures to be different, and while Richardson and Taylor still have work to do, the former All-Pro running back is jacked up to see what they can do.

Football player Anthony Richardson runs a drill as practice in a red football jersey.

Colts Quarterback Anthony Richardson runs the gauntlet during Indianapolis Colts minicamp practice Tuesday, June 4, 2024 at the Indiana Farm Bureau Football Center. / Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar / USA TODAY

“Just to get a feel for each other, learn how one another moves, how they play, how he thinks,” Taylor remarked. “I think it’s going to be really fun. There were very few snaps (together last season), but we are praying for a full 17 weeks full of snaps this year.

“It’s almost like there’s a whole new element now,” Taylor continued. “You’re not just worrying about what I’m doing. It’s like, ‘You better worry about this guy because if not, he’s going to kill you.’”

Building chemistry with Taylor is only one aspect of Richardson’s return to the field. Richardson’s last game was back in early October, over nine months ago. Nine months is a long time to not be in pads.

Richardson will need to get used to the speed of the game again when the pads strap back on. But after countless workouts with his teammates this summer, it should not take long for Richardson to build up the rapport he once had with his weapons.

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“I think for Anthony it’s just getting back into the flow of things because every time that I’ve seen him this offseason, he looks great,” Michael Pittman Jr. admitted. “He’s in good shape, he’s throwing well, he’s all healed up. So, really just further learning and more experience. … Just get him ramped up and ready to play because it’s been a long time since he’s been able to play football.”

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Much of the attention will be about what Richardson does on the field, and rightfully so. But while he was not on the field for most of last season, Richardson grew as a quarterback off the field. Mastering the offense, developing a better understanding of defensive concepts, and growing as a leader are just a few of the things Richardson focused on during his injury.

And his teammates have already noticed the young quarterback putting what he has learned into practice.

“Physically, he looks amazing,” Ryan Kelly stated. “I think he’s taken a lot of growth off the field as well just watching film and doing cut-ups and stuff like that. I’m excited to see him come out here and compete. I know what kind of character and what kind of leadership he’s gotten from Year One to Year Two. So it’ll be exciting to see.”

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It is not just the offensive side of the ball that has taken note of Richardson’s growth either. Leaders of the Colts’ defense are excited to have a quarterback of his caliber on their team. Not only will going up against Richardson in practice make the defense better, and vice versa, but having a talented quarterback who can make winning plays gives the Colts a chance to reach heights this team has not seen in quite some time.

“His ceiling’s through the roof,” DeForest Buckner said about Richardson. “The kid’s got – The Lord blessed him with so many talents. He’s gifted physically, and it’s just the mental part of his game that he’s going to have to continue to build and work on. He’s lucky to have a coach like Shane (Steichen) who’s got a great mind for the game and can help him develop to the quarterback that everybody sees him becoming.”

Football player Anthony Richardson passes the ball for a score in a blue jersey.

Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson (5) passes the ball for a 2-pt conversion during game action against the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday, Oct. 1, 2023, in Indianapolis. / Clark Wade/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK

The entire Colts franchise is excited about what is next for Richardson and what he can accomplish leading this team. But ultimately, talk is cheap. What matters is the results that Richardson and this team put on the field.

There will be bumps in the road along the way. It is to be expected out of a 22-year-old quarterback with only four NFL starts under his belt. The key will be learning from those mistakes and overcoming them.

The ability to overcome adversity will determine if Richardson will be successful in the NFL and reach his ceiling as a quarterback. It will take a lot of hard work and dedication to make it happen, but for those who know Richardson, his confidence in accomplishing what he sets out to do is unwavering.

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“There’s a naive confidence that, for a guy that hadn’t played a lot of snaps, just believes that he’s pretty freaking good,” Ballard explained. “And that’s a good thing, that’s not a bad thing. I do believe his poise is pretty rare, especially for a guy that really (only threw) 84 passes. Usually with rookies you see a lot of panic when they’re playing, a lot of frantic play. You didn’t see that with Anthony, and I think that’s a good sign.”

Year Two for Richardson is here, and so is all of the hype surrounding the former No.4 overall pick. Richardson is confident he can lead the Colts to the promised land. His teammates believe he has all the capabilities to make it happen as well.

Time to see if Richardson can usher in a new golden age of Colts football.

Want more Colts content? Check out the latest episode of the Horseshoe Huddle Podcast!

Follow Horseshoe Huddle on Facebook and X, and subscribe on YouTube for multiple Colts live-stream podcasts per week.

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Indianapolis Sports Calendar 2026: Final Four, Indy 500 & More

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Indianapolis Sports Calendar 2026: Final Four, Indy 500 & More


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Indianapolis Sports Calendar 2026: Final Four, Indy 500 & More

Following a banner year in 2025, Indianapolis has solidified its reputation as a premier destination for major sporting events.

The city demonstrated exceptional capacity for hosting diverse competitions, from professional leagues to collegiate championships, setting a high standard for hospitality and logistical execution.

As the calendar turns to 2026, the “Circle City” is not slowing down; instead, it is gearing up for another year of world-class athletic showcases.

The success of 2025 was not accidental.

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It was the result of decades of strategic planning that transformed Indianapolis into a hub built specifically for large-scale events.

The city’s compact downtown, connected by skywalks and anchored by top-tier venues like Lucas Oil Stadium and Gainbridge Fieldhouse, allows fans to navigate easily between hotels, restaurants, and arenas.

In 2025, the city hosted a series of high-profile events that brought significant economic impact and cultural vibrancy to the region.

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Local businesses, from Black-owned restaurants on Indiana Avenue to downtown hotels, thrived on the influx of visitors.

The seamless execution of these events proved once again that Indianapolis is capable of managing the complex infrastructure required for national and international sports.

Looking ahead, 2026 promises to elevate this legacy further. With a calendar featuring the NCAA Men’s Final Four, the historic Indianapolis 500, and the return of the NFL Scouting Combine, the city is prepared to welcome hundreds of thousands of visitors.

These events are more than just games; they are community gatherings that celebrate competition, diversity, and excellence.

Take a look below at Indianapolis Sports Calendar 2026: Final Four, Indy 500 & More.

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RELATED | Large Sporting Events Happening In Indianapolis In 2025

RELATED | Top 15 Indiana Sports Moments Of 2025

February 23 – March 2: NFL Scouting Combine

2025 NFL Scouting Combine
Source: Stacy Revere / Getty

The NFL universe descends on Lucas Oil Stadium as top college prospects showcase their skills for professional scouts, coaches, and general managers.

This annual event remains a staple of the Indianapolis sports calendar.

March 2: WWE Monday Night RAW

Monday Night RAW
Source: WWE / Getty

Gainbridge Fieldhouse will host the drama and athleticism of the WWE, bringing global superstars to the city for a night of high-energy entertainment.

March 4–8: Big Ten Women’s Basketball Tournament

Indiana v Michigan
Source: Aaron J. Thornton / Getty

Gainbridge Fieldhouse welcomes the best women’s teams from the Big Ten Conference.

As women’s basketball continues to surge in popularity, this tournament is expected to draw significant crowds.

March 8–10: Horizon League Men’s and Women’s Basketball Tournament

COLLEGE BASKETBALL: MAR 12 Horizon League Championship - Oakland vs Milwaukee
Source: Icon Sportswire / Getty

The action shifts to the Corteva Coliseum at the Indiana State Fairgrounds, where the Horizon League crowns its champions and determines automatic bids to the NCAA tournament.

March 18–21: NCAA DIII Men’s and Women’s Swimming Championships

2025 NCAA Division I Men's Swimming and Diving Championships
Source: Mollie Handkins / Getty

The IU Natatorium at IU Indianapolis, known as one of the fastest pools in the world, will host elite swimmers competing for national titles.

April: The Road to the Championship

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April marks the climax of the college basketball season, with Indianapolis serving as the epicenter of the sport.

April 2 & 5: National Invitation Tournament (NIT) Semifinals and Championship

Indiana State v Seton Hall
Source: Mitchell Layton / Getty

Hinkle Fieldhouse will host the semifinals, followed by the championship game at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, showcasing top-tier programs battling for the historic NIT title.

April 3: College Slam Dunk & 3-Point Championships

Marquette v Butler
Source: Mitchell Layton / Getty

Hinkle Fieldhouse hosts this fan-favorite event, featuring the nation’s top shooters and high-flyers in a showcase of individual skill.

April 4 & 6: NCAA Men’s Final Four and National Championship

Baylor v Gonzaga
Source: Andy Lyons / Getty

The eyes of the sports world will turn to Lucas Oil Stadium for the conclusion of March Madness.

Hosting the Final Four is a prestigious honor that underscores Indianapolis’s elite status in the sports world.

April 5: NCAA DII & DIII Men’s Basketball National Championships

Kon Knueppel leads Wisconsin Lutheran to WIAA State Final
Source: NurPhoto / Getty

In a celebration of collegiate athletics across all levels, Gainbridge Fieldhouse will host the title games for both Division II and Division III men’s basketball on the same day.

Spring and Summer: Racing and Golf

As the weather warms, the focus shifts from the court to the track and the links.

May 9: Sonsio Grand Prix

AUTO: MAY 10 INDYCAR Sonsio Grand Prix
Source: Icon Sportswire / Getty

The month of May kicks off at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway with the Sonsio Grand Prix, setting the stage for the weeks of racing ahead.

May 24: 110th Running of the Indianapolis 500

109th Running Of The Indianapolis 500 - Practice and Previews
Source: Justin Casterline / Getty

The “Greatest Spectacle in Racing” returns to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

This iconic event is a cultural touchstone, drawing hundreds of thousands of fans for a day of speed and tradition.

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Big Ten Football Media Days
Source: Kirby Lee / Getty

Coaches and players from the expanded Big Ten conference gather to preview the upcoming college football season, bringing media attention from across the country.

July 26: Brickyard 400

AUTO: JUN 19 Indianapolis Motor Speedway
Source: Icon Sportswire / Getty

NASCAR returns to the oval at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway for one of the most prestigious races on the Cup Series schedule.

August 20–23: LIV Golf Indianapolis

GOLF: AUG 17 LIV Golf Indianapolis
Source: Icon Sportswire / Getty

The Club at Chatham Hills will host LIV Golf, bringing many of the world’s top professional golfers to the area for this unique team-based competition.

Fall and Winter: Football Focus

The year concludes with major football events that celebrate both heritage and championships.

September 2–7: NHRA U.S. Nationals

AUTO: NOV 04 Ford Performance NHRA Nationals
Source: Icon Sportswire / Getty

Known as “The Big Go,” this drag racing event at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park is the most prestigious drag race in the world.

NFL: JUN 10 Lucas Oil Stadium
Source: Icon Sportswire / Getty

Lucas Oil Stadium hosts the Circle City Classic, a celebration of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).

This event is a cultural highlight, featuring not only the game but also the renowned battle of the bands, a parade, and community festivities.

COLLEGE FOOTBALL: DEC 02 Big Ten Championship Game - Michigan vs Iowa
Source: Icon Sportswire / Getty

The college football regular season culminates at Lucas Oil Stadium, where the Big Ten champion is crowned, often with College Football Playoff implications on the line.

Indianapolis approaches 2026 with a proven playbook.

For residents and visitors alike, the 2026 schedule offers opportunities to witness history and participate in world-class experiences.

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Whether it is the roar of the engines at the Speedway, the buzzer-beaters of the Final Four, or the pageantry of the Circle City Classic, Indianapolis is ready to deliver another magnificent year in sports.



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How frequent are 60-degree days in January for Indianapolis?

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How frequent are 60-degree days in January for Indianapolis?


INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Indianapolis will challenge 60 degrees multiple times to close this week. How frequent are 60-degree days in the month of January?

Over the last 5 years, Indianapolis has hit 60 degrees in January only twice. Bloomington did it four times in this same stretch.

Our last time hitting the 60-degree threshold in this month was in January 2023 in Indy. Temperature records for the city have been kept since 1872. On average, Indianapolis has around one day of making it to 60 degrees in January since record keeping began.

1880 is the year with the most January 60 degrees or higher days on record at 8 days. In 2017, Indianapolis had 4 days make it to the threshold. This is the last time we had multiple days in the 60s in January.

For the latest 7-day forecast, visit our weather blog by clicking here.

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Between Springfield And Indianapolis Is Illinois’ Cozy City With A Buzzing Main Street – Islands

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Between Springfield And Indianapolis Is Illinois’ Cozy City With A Buzzing Main Street – Islands






Resting between the United States’s pulsing coasts and among its inland cities-du-jour (lookin’ at you, Austin, Texas), lies an embarrassment of bite-sized riches. Small, intimate locales that offer a counterweight to New York City’s megawatt pulse, or San Francisco’s erudite cool. Places like Monticello, a cozy Illinois city with a lively Main Street that may be the exact opposite of the Instagram-worthy destinations drawing masses of visitors. Sandwiched between Springfield and Indianapolis, the small city of about 6,000 instead offers a big dose of small-town charm and humility.

Monticello holds an underappreciated place in history. Abraham Lincoln, still a young lawyer, spent time in the local Tenbrook Hotel as he traveled the Eighth Judicial Circuit, cutting his teeth as an aspiring legal mind. He also had a knack for turning social events inside out. One infamous scene involved Honest Abe persuading children to heat an inflated pig’s bladder in a fireplace. The ensuing explosion sent hot coals all over the room, with Lincoln setting a broom on fire trying to clean up the mess.

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You won’t find any bouncy pig bladders or flaming brooms, but his time in the area is commemorated with “Looking for Lincoln” plaques scattered at places he frequented during his time there and the rest of Illinois. Monticello gladly embraces its history, offering a perfect counterbalance to Urbana-Champaign, a trendy college town with thriving arts and vibrant culture that’s 30 minutes away. It’s an idyllic weekend getaway for travelers tired of slapping hashtags on everything.

Check out Main Street, dine, and ride the rails

The cozy city offers a Baby Bear’s porridge version of a big-ticket destination: not so overwhelming that the average traveler burns out from the heat, yet also not so chill that it leaves visitors twiddling their thumbs. The town’s downtown area, which orbits around Main Street, gives visitors a chance to see the small city’s best offerings and spend a little cash. There’s No Place Like Home, just off Washington Street, has a delightful collection of antiques, jewelry, and upcycled tchotchkes that make splurging a guilt-free exercise. Mary, Maude & Me, an antique store just two blocks away in a charming little brick house, has a similarly eclectic, well-curated inventory of vintage wares. Next, it’s time to chug along to the town’s biggest draw.

Any visit must include a stop at the Monitcello Railway Museum. Its weekend train rides offer a time portal back to an era when rails and steam engines helped small towns like Monticello expand. Bookended by two depots, the museum’s dozens of historic trains reward passengers with a sense they’re on the set of a “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid.” Afterward, your stomach will likely grumble. Thankfully, Monticello offers plenty of dining options.

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The smattering of small eateries covers a wide breadth of humble food options, sans white tablecloths. Hankering for some Mexican? Casa Real and Las Marias have you covered. Those in more of a lunch pail and hard hat mood can hit the Brown Bag Deli. Its mix of wraps, sandwiches, and full-on meals will satiate exactly the ravenous hunger one feels after spending time on a railroad.

The ins and outs of visiting Monticello

No matter where you’re traveling from, you’ll need a car to reach the city. Despite its proximity to several larger metropolises, Monticello’s closest airport is the University of Illinois Willard Airport, a comparatively small hub that often requires a transfer at Chicago O’Hare to reach. The closest major transit hub, Indianapolis International Airport, unfortunately, is two hours away. The drive in, however, offers plenty of worthwhile pit stops. About halfway between the airport and Monticello, you’ll find Danville, an underrated Illinois city that’s a peaceful lakeside retreat.

Monticello’s diminutive size limits your available accommodations. A single chain hotel and a smaller inn are the only available options, costing between $75 and $200. Decatur, itself an underrated Midwest gem with trails, public art, and a zoo, sits about half an hour away and offers some more places to overnight.

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While there’s no wrong time to visit Monticello, the muggy summers and chilly winters mean the weather’s most pleasant during the shoulder season. If you’re in town between June and October, include a stop at the city’s farmers’ market. Local vendors offer everything from baked goods to flowers, along with the usual smattering of fresh produce. No inflated pig bladders, though.





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