Colts start 2-0
We can sit here and dissect all we want, and it is certainly entertaining, but in the end all that matters is that the Colts are 2-0, and for the first time in over 15 years. I consider myself an optimistic person, and I was not expecting a start like this at all. Even more so when taking into account the opponents faced. Sure, the Dolphins are not as good as I expected them to be, with things unraveling fast down in Miami, but the Broncos are a darn good football team, and the Colts beat them. 2-0 in the AFC is also a great start, thinking of potential playoff tiebreakers. Look at us, talking about the playoffs.
Colts’ defensive line generates just 4 pressures
The Broncos’ offensive line is at the very least a top 3 pass-blocking unit in the NFL, and the Colts were without their best edge pass-rusher as Laiatu Latu was a late scratch because of a hamstring injury. The result was as expected, with Indy getting just four pressures in the entire game. One of those came at the perfect moment as Grover Stewart got a hand up and forced the interception late in the fourth, but the defensive line will need to be much better if this defense is to hold, especially with such a suspect linebacker corps.
Kicker Spencer Shrader perfect day/career
Surviving the announcer jinx, Shrader maintained his perfect NFL record. Take it with a grain of salt, as he has not attempted a kick over 50 yards yet, but having a reliable guy who can consistently make the short ones is a huge asset. I’d much rather have a guy that makes every single attempt under 50, than to have one that can kick 60+ but struggles with consistency. The Colts’ offense has been among the best at moving the ball, but struggle finishing drives. If that trend continues expect Shrader to get plenty more chances.
Jonathan Taylor over 200 scrimmage yards
This was Jonathan Taylor’s redemption game, after what happened last year on a crucial mistake that was the turning point last season. JT helped heal that wound, getting over 200 scrimmage yards, a touchdown, and being one of the biggest reasons why the Colts managed to get the win on Sunday. This is an All-Pro caliber running back who, like the rest of the Colts’ offense, is reaping the benefits of having a consistent quarterback at the helm. With opposing defenses being forced to take into account the passing threat by Daniel Jones, even more holes should open up for JT.
Xavien Howard targeted 8 times, Blackmon 1
With Ward ruled out for the game, and Jaylon Jones placed on IR, the Colts were forced to go with Mekhi Blackmon and Xavien Howard as their outside cornerbacks. Howard was targeted 11 times, allowing 8 completions for 78 yards and two touchdowns according to PFF.com. The other three instances where the ball was not caught, Howard drew a flag. On the other hand, Blackmon had a quietly solid game, being targeted just once and forcing an incompletion. With Ward probably back in the mix next week, it appears as though Blackmon is the early favourite to play alongside him.
Colts 2/6 on redzone trips
As mentioned above, the Colts have really struggled finishing off drives. That is not a problem just this season, as last year it was also a struggle, but this issue will definitely catch up with the team if it keeps persisting. I expected more creativity from Steichen with all the tools he has at his disposal, but so far we have not seen that at all. Perhaps with more time, and as Daniel Jones gets more and more comfortable inside the offense, it will improve.
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