Colts begin 2-0
We can sit right here and dissect all we would like, and it’s definitely entertaining, however in the finish all that issues is that the Colts are 2-0, and for the first time in over 15 years. I think about myself an optimistic particular person, and I used to be not anticipating a begin like this in any respect. Even extra so when taking into consideration the opponents confronted. Sure, the Dolphins are not so good as I anticipated them to be, with issues unraveling quick down in Miami, however the Broncos are a darn good soccer workforce, and the Colts beat them. 2-0 in the AFC can be a terrific begin, considering of potential playoff tiebreakers. Look at us, speaking about the playoffs.
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Colts’ line of defense generates simply 4 pressures
The Broncos’ offensive line is at the very least a prime 3 pass-blocking unit in the NFL, and the Colts have been with out their finest edge pass-rusher as Laiatu Latu was a late scratch as a result of of a hamstring harm. The consequence was as anticipated, with Indy getting simply 4 pressures in the complete recreation. One of these got here at the excellent second as Grover Stewart obtained a hand up and compelled the interception late in the fourth, however the line of defense will should be a lot better if this protection is to carry, particularly with such a suspect linebacker corps.
Kicker Spencer Shrader excellent day/profession
Surviving the announcer jinx, Shrader maintained his excellent NFL document. Take it with a grain of salt, as he has not tried a kick over 50 yards but, however having a dependable man who can persistently make the brief ones is a big asset. I’d a lot somewhat have a man that makes each single try beneath 50, than to have one that may kick 60+ however struggles with consistency. The Colts’ offense has been amongst the finest at transferring the ball, however wrestle ending drives. If that pattern continues count on Shrader to get loads extra possibilities.
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Jonathan Taylor over 200 scrimmage yards
This was Jonathan Taylor’s redemption recreation, after what occurred final 12 months on a vital mistake that was the turning level final season. JT helped heal that wound, getting over 200 scrimmage yards, a landing, and being one of the greatest the reason why the Colts managed to get the win on Sunday. This is an All-Pro caliber working again who, like the relaxation of the Colts’ offense, is reaping the advantages of having a constant quarterback at the helm. With opposing defenses being compelled to take into consideration the passing risk by Daniel Jones, much more holes ought to open up for JT.
Xavien Howard focused 8 occasions, Blackmon 1
With Ward dominated out for the recreation, and Jaylon Jones positioned on IR, the Colts have been compelled to go along with Mekhi Blackmon and Xavien Howard as their exterior cornerbacks. Howard was focused 11 occasions, permitting 8 completions for 78 yards and two touchdowns in keeping with PFF.com. The different three situations the place the ball was not caught, Howard drew a flag. On the different hand, Blackmon had a quietly strong recreation, being focused simply as soon as and forcing an incompletion. With Ward in all probability again in the combine subsequent week, it seems as if Blackmon is the early favorite to play alongside him.
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Colts 2/6 on redzone journeys
As talked about above, the Colts have actually struggled ending off drives. That will not be an issue simply this season, as final 12 months it was additionally a wrestle, however this challenge will certainly meet up with the workforce if it retains persisting. I anticipated extra creativity from Steichen with all the instruments he has at his disposal, however to date we’ve not seen that in any respect. Perhaps with extra time, and as Daniel Jones will get increasingly more comfy inside the offense, it’s going to enhance.