The Colts win 25-24 after a late TD pass from Anthony Richardson and a two-point conversion

Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson’s future as a starter was in question at one point this season, but it’s safe to say everyone feels good about having him in the lineup on Sunday.

With 12 seconds left in the game, Richardson threw a three-yard touchdown pass to Alec Pierce and then ran for a two-point conversion that gave the Colts a 25-24 New England victory. The Colts are now 6-7 as they enter a bye and a five-game stretch that includes only one game against a winning team.

The Patriots got the ball to midfield after two completions by Drake Maye, but kicker Joey Slye couldn’t score from 68 yards.

Richardson completed five passes for 43 yards and had two more runs for 12 yards during the 80-yard drive. The Colts also got a crucial first down when Patriots cornerback Alex Austin was flagged for interfering with wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr.

Richardson finished the day 12 of 24 for 109 yards and also had a touchdown pass to running back Jonathan Taylor. He ran for 48 yards and threw two interceptions, but the numbers will resonate less than the way Richardson confidently led the team to victory.

Maye’s play should also make the Patriots feel good about their quarterback. Maye was 24 of 30 for 238 yards, a touchdown and an interception while also running for 59 yards. He led a go-ahead touchdown drive early in the fourth quarter, but will regret the tipped ball interception and a quick three-and-out after Richardson threw a pick of his own in the fourth quarter.

Slye missed a short field goal at the end of the first half and Austin’s penalty was one of seven the Patriots took with 3:10 to play during the loss. Some of them ruined offensive plays that could have resulted in more points, and that sloppiness needs to be addressed so the Pats can improve before the end of the year. They will also have a bye next week.