The Colts needed a win, and they delivered a gritty performance to move to 3-3 on the season. All three phases delivered in the win. The offense thrived again with Joe Flacco under center, as starter Anthony Richardson was a late scratch. The defense was not perfect and still needs some attention but they delivered in the 4th quarter and closed out the game. On Special Teams, punter Rigoberto Sanchez sealed the game with a mind-blowing punt that landed at the 3-yard line and eliminated any chance of a Will Levis-led comeback. While not a complete effort, it was great to see all three phases contribute to a much-needed divisional victory against the Titans. Let’s react to our pre-game keys to victory from Week 6.
Injuries Were Overblown
The Colts were missing starters Jonathan Taylor and Anthony Richardson for the second week in a row. It appeared the team would also be without Micheal Pittman Jr and Josh Downs. Both were able to go and shined in their roles. Pittman was battling a back injury, and Downs has dealt with a lingering toe injury. I agreed with WRs Coach Reggie Wayne’s assessment about no one being fully healthy this far into the season but to step up the way Pittman did was nothing short of miraculous.
On the defensive side of the ball, Kwity Paye and Kenny Moore returned. The secondary played much better this week, but the Colts pass rush was non-existent for the second week in a row. The unit was about as healthy as it can be (not including players on IR) and it showed as the defense played terrific in the 4th quarter.
Heading to next week, both Taylor’s and Richardson’s status will be the focus. The only Colts player that left the game was Ryan Kelly and we may see rookie Tanor Bortolini get another start.
The Defense Improved (Kind Of)
The first half and into the 3rd quarter was the same depressing performance we have seen all season. In fact, after that Tony Pollard TD run, I think the fanbase felt this defense had hit rock bottom and that Gus Bradley needed to be left off the chartered flight back to Indianapolis. Not sure what started clicking for them as in the final 5 drives they only allowed two first downs. Julian Blackmon was able to force a turnover on a ball-hawking interception.
Whatever they figured out in the 4th quarter worked and allowed them to close out the game. The defense only allowed 241 total yards, and the secondary held Will Levis to 95 yards passing. The run defense will still need some attention heading into next week, but this is the kind of effort you hope to build on heading toward midseason.
Joe Flacco Vs Will Levis
While we all wanted to see Will Levis versus Anthony Richardson, instead saw Flacco under center for Indianapolis. He played another terrific game, and we again saw him distribute the ball this week. His connection to Josh Downs continues to be noticeable as he led all pass catchers with 7 receptions. Flacco found him in a mismatch with a linebacker for a touchdown in the first half.
For all the hassle that this fan base (and myself) throws at Chris Ballard, he deserves praise for this signing. He was brought in to assist Richardson’s development but, more importantly, he is the insurance policy we needed. We all hoped we would not see him play one snap this season, but he has been worth every penny they paid this season. If reports are true, we will see the return of Anthony Richardson as the Colts host the Dolphins on Sunday afternoon.
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