Garcon, Painter hope preseason pays off

TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WISH) - The Colts first preseason game is on Friday at Lucas Oil Stadium against the Minnesota Vikings. The preseason games are the prime time for fringe players to earn a spot on the roster.

Wide receiver Anthony Gonzalez is glad people are able to see what his teammate and fellow wideout Pierre Garcon can do. Garcon is looking for the number three receiving job and he's ready to prove in the Colts’ game against Minnesota that he's the guy.

"Pierre has been doing what people are now seeing all summer, really. It's just a matter of getting in front of people," said Gonzalez.

It's a test Garcon feels he's more prepared for. Last year, as a rookie, he was still learning the basics.

"When they are calling out the plays, I know what I'm doing...That makes me feel a little more confident," said Garcon. "Every time there is a game it's an opportunity to have someone see you play."

While Garcon is feeling much more comfortable in this year's training camp, quarterback Curtis Painter is just trying to soak up as much information as he can.

"I'm too busy trying to learn the playbook, which is pretty big. It will be a lot more learning, you know, there is no plateau," said Painter.

With primary backup Jim Sorgi sidelined with a strained right hamstring, the former Purdue quarterback has ample opportunity to show his skills. It's an opportunity he's wanted for a long time.

"It's been a dream since I was little. So, just to be able to run on this field and play a little bit will be great. I'm sure I'll be nervous, but I hope do some good work," said Painter.