Instant takeaways from Colts preseason performance v. Patriots

The Indianapolis Colts fell by a score of X to X to the New England Patriots in their preseason opener.

But this time of the year isn't about wins and losses. In the preseason, individual performances often take priority, with playing time, roles, and roster spots up for grabs.

With the clock now at triple zeros, here are our instant takeaways from what took place.

- Anthony Richardson was 11-for-14 passing for 145 yards -- although his performance was more up and down than the stat line shows. That said, the passing game generated four plays of at least 16 yards and Richardson's impact with the ball in his hands was felt, as he rushed for 54 yards and a score. He did have an interception, but it went through Coleman Owen's hands.

- Riley Leonard's performance was more inconsistent. He was 10-for-20 passing for 89 yards with an interception that was a bad decision and a bad throw. He seemed to struggle to find a rhythm.

- Linebacker is a question mark, but the backups -- who saw starting snaps in this game -- Jaylon Carlies, Austin Ajiake, and Bryce Boettcher performed well.

- On the flip side, it was very up and down for the backup cornerbacks. Mekhi Blackmon was penalized twice, and Johnathan Edwards had a rough showing.

- That said, Edwards will be a very good special teams player for the Colts.

- Rookie defensive end George Gumbs showcased his potential, logging a sack and a tackle for loss. Fellow rookie Caden Curry had a good night as well.

- Coleman Owen was quite impressive as a return man. When it comes to the final roster spot at wide receiver, that role could be the differentiator between Owen, Deion Burks, and Anthony Gould.

- Jaylahn Tuimoloau got the start and went against backup tackles, but it was a quiet night for him.

- Ulysses Bentley's ability to impact the passing game can help him make a roster push. DJ Giddens remains sidelined, and the Colts could use that pass-catching element.

- Of note, Dalton Tucker got the starting center reps with Tanor Bortolini not playing. Jalen Travis was at right tackle and Blake Freeland at left tackle.

- Jonathan Owens is going to be an important special teams player this season.

- Blake Grupe entered the game with the advantage over Spencer Shrader, but Grupe was 0/1 kicking, while Shrader was 2/2, which included making a 61-yarder late to tie the game.

- Tight end Will Mallory has put together some good practices as of late and continued that performance in this game. Shane Steichen needs to get him more opportunities this season.

This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: Instant takeaways from Colts preseason performance v. Patriots