Indianapolis Colts coach Frank Reich officially confirmed the team’s new backup quarterback is rookie Sam Ehlinger. The sixth round pick out of Texas was injured in the preseason, but is back on the active roster. Indianapolis waived veteran Brett Hundley and then signed him back to the practice squad. The NFL’s trade deadline came and went Tuesday without the Colts making any moves. Running back Marlon Mack had been rumored as a potential trade candidate considering the Colts’ depth at running back. Additionally, Reich said safety Khari Willis likely won’t play Thursday when the Colts host the New York Jets.
The Indiana Pacers take on the New York Knicks tonight at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. For the first time this season, both Caris LeVert and Malcolm Brogdon will make up the Pacers’ starting backcourt. Brogdon has missed the last three games with a hamstring strain, but said he will make his return to action Wednesday. LeVert has suited up in two-games this season, including Monday night’s victory over the San Antonio Spurs. The Pacers are 2-6, while the Knicks are 5-2 and winners of three straight road games. Tipoff at 7 p.m. from downtown Indy.
Ball State held on to beat Akron 31-25 Tuesday night in a wild MAC showdown. Akron quarterback Zach Gibson was inches from running in a game-tying touchdown with under two minutes to go when he fumbled into the endzone. The Cardinals recovered and were able to run out the clock. Ball State built a 28-10 lead before the Zips scored two touchdowns early in the fourth quarter to get within three points. Ball State is 5-4 and has won five straight conference road games. The Cardinals are one win away from bowl eligibility and play at Northern Illinois next Wednesday.
The Notre Dame Fighting Irish are ranked tenth in the first College Football Playoff Rankings, which were released Tuesday. The top four consists of Georgia, Alabama, Michigan State and Oregon. Ohio State is ranked number five, while Cincinnati came in at number six despite the Bearcats’ 8-0 record and a win over Notre Dame in South Bend. The Fighting Irish are 7-1 and host Navy Saturday.
