INDIANAPOLIS — It was the most anticipated national anthem in decades. Perhaps ever.
How — if at all — would the Colts respond to controversial comments made earlier this week by President Donald Trump about NFL players' participation in protests over racial injustice?
The answer came quickly as players and coaches linked arms on the sideline while the giant United States flag was unfurled across the length of the field. About nine players near the end of the line also knelt while Rivers and Rust belted out the anthem.
Trump criticized players who kneel during the anthem, saying they show disrespect for the flag and the country and should be fired by their owners.