INDIANAPOLIS — Indianapolis Colts coach Shane Steichen prefers being the aggressive play-caller. He likes taking chances on third down, would rather go for it on fourth down than punt and enjoys finding creative ways to stretch the field. Right now, though, Steichen can't simply rely on his instincts.

Philip Rivers said on Sunday he hoped to inspire some of the youngsters watching the game back home as the Indianapolis Colts quarterback persevered in his first game back.

Rivers completed 18 of 27 passes (66.6%) for 120 yards, a touchdown and an interception in the Colts’ 18-16 loss to the Seattle Seahawks. On his podcast “The Right Time with Bomani Jones,” Jones criticized the Colts for their decision to start Rivers.

The St. Michael Catholic football team supports their coach, Philip Rivers, as he returns from his retirement at age 44 to join the Indianapolis Colts. NBC News’ Sam Brock spoke with some of the high school players about Rivers' return to the NFL.

The 44-year-old QB nearly rallied the Colts to a stunning victory, but the Seahawks spoiled a Hollywood ending.

The Colts had one last desperation shot with the ball back and 18 seconds remaining. But Rivers' downfield pass to Michael Pittman was intercepted by Coby Bryant. And the Seattle offense took the field one last time to kneel down on a victory.

Rivers completed 18 of his 27 passes for 120 yards and led a drive that put the Colts ahead with less than a minute left.