RSS Colts Team Notes

[Indianapolis Colts]

ESPN speculates Colts QB Anthony Richardson ‘open’ to trade to top play calling team

According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, Indianapolis Colts quarterback is an intriguing trade candidate ahead of early November’s league deadline—as he could be reportedly ‘open’ to going to a top offensive playcaller:

“Outside of that, there’s not a clear-cut need for teams, barring injury. One intriguing option is Anthony Richardson Sr., who is stuck behind Daniel Jones in Indianapolis,” writes Fowler.

“My sense is Richardson would be open to joining a premier playcaller such as Sean McVay as a developmental player so he can reset for 2026.”

Honestly, this doesn’t seem like necessarily new information, as Fowler and his ESPN colleague Dan Graziano previously reported that the since demoted 3rd-year quarterback and his representation “broached the idea of a trade with Colts general manager Chris Ballard”—although they weren’t demanding it at that time.

If I were an NFL quarterback looking to continue my development elsewhere with elite level coaching, it would make sense to go to a ‘quarterback whisperer’ of sorts with either the Kansas City Chiefs, Los Angeles Rams, Minnesota Vikings, or San Francisco 49ers—if given the potential option.

However, one could make the case that such a list of quarterback gurus includes Colts head coach Shane Steichen, who’s had prior success with Justin Herbert, Jalen Hurts, and even turned quarterback Gardner Minshew into a first-time career Pro Bowler with Indianapolis back in 2023.

Given reclamation project Daniel Jones’s initial success, and it’s a fair question of whether the issue is not Steichen, but rather Richardson’s inability to master the offense and take his craft seriously enough.

This honestly seems like a national media created story—and possible public distraction for the Colts, who so far are off to a hot start at 3-1 and were a few 2nd half mishaps last weekend on the road against the Rams from remaining undefeated at 4-0.

At any rate though, I do think it’s too early to safely declare that Jones is the long-term answer for the Colts after just 4 starts, so that Richardson’s presence now becomes an afterthought and luxury.

One, because it’s not the first time that Jones has shown flashes of exceptional quarterback play. After all, he once earned a 4-year, $160M contract extension back in March of 2023. The sample size here is still pretty limited. Two, he hasn’t necessarily been the gold standard for durability during his 7-year NFL career, and given his utilized mobility, it makes sense to have a capable backup.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...ardson-open-to-trade-to-top-play-calling-team

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Colts kicker Spencer Shrader named AFC Special Teams Player of the Month

Indianapolis Colts kicker Spencer Shrader has been named the AFC Special Teams Player of the Month for September.

SPENCER SHRADER pic.twitter.com/ETHCYJUvUm

— Indianapolis Colts (@Colts) October 2, 2025

Shrader, a former undrafted free agent from Notre Dame, is the first Colts kicker to receive this achievement since future Hall-of-Famer Adam Vinatieri earned the same honors in October of 2016.

While Shrader spent much of his rookie season as part of Indianapolis’ practice squad, he also temporarily played for both the New York Jets and Kansas City Chiefs last season. Entering the 2025 season, the Colts’ vote of confidence for Shrader, despite his inexperience, was noticeable. Indianapolis signed Shrader to a two-year deal, which then led to them eventually releasing veteran kicker Matt Gay.

A month into the 2025 season, the Colts are off to a 3-1 start, and it certainly helps that Shrader has been as good as Indianapolis could’ve hoped for. The second-year kicker has accounted for a league-best 51 total points, including converting on 92.9 percent of his 13 field goals. Shrader has also gone 12-for-12 on all of his extra points.

Shrader’s best moment thus far came during Week 2, when he nailed a game-winning, 45-yard field against the Denver Broncos and helped lift Indianapolis to its first 2-0 start since 2009. Shrader and the Colts will look to continue their great start Sunday against the Las Vegas Raiders.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...r-named-afc-special-teams-player-of-the-month

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Colts vs. Raiders Week 5: Players to watch

Once again throwing out the disclaimer here, this is a series where we will look over underrated players that could end up having a significant impact on the game, not the usual “Watch out for Jonathan Taylor! He is really good!”.

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Adetomiwa Adebawore​

Adebawore has been enjoying a breakout season so far, an unexpected one. He had a career game against the Rams on limited snaps, facing perhaps the hardest quarterback to pressure in the NFL because of his IQ and how fast he gets the ball out. Geno Smith, Raiders’ quarterback, is not characterized by either a strong pocket presence, or getting the ball out fast, giving the Colts’ pass-rushers a prime opportunity to have a massive effect on the game. Adebawore has solidified his status as the main rotational defensive tackle, displacing Eric Johnson II, and slowly eating into Neville Gallimore’s snaps. With how creative Anarumo is with his defensive line, watch out for Ade Ade on Sunday.

Johnathan Edwards​

UDFA Johnathan Edwards has played just 11 snaps, but with cornerback Xavien Howard suddenly retiring, after getting absolutely demolished by Puka Nacua, there is a decent chance that Edwards will be starting for the Colts on Sunday. The Raiders’ receivers are not as dangerous as Puka and Davante Adams, but they can still give the Colts’ headaches. If Anarumo decides to have Charvarius Ward follow Jakobi Meyers, then that would leave Edwards lined up against Tre Tucker, who is leading the Raiders in touchdowns, and is a player who can take the top off the defense on any play. It showed against the Rams that no matter how good the other secondary players are, if the opposing team identifies a clear weak link they can just dedicate themselves to exploiting that, so hopefully Edwards holds up better than Howard.

Mike Hilton​

With Kenny Moore once again most likely out for the game, Mike Hilton will be once again the starting nickel cornerback. Now like I said before, opposing teams will just continue picking on the weak link of the secondary, and if Edwards ends up being solid, that could easily be Hilton, who had not played in a long time before the Colts signed him. The Raiders rotate what receiver they use in the slot, with either Meyers or Tucker getting some reps there, and if they identify the opportunity to attack there, Hilton could end up seeing a lot of work.

Stone Forsythe (Raiders)​

Raiders’ left tackle Kolton Miller will miss Sunday’s game after suffering a high-ankle sprain that also resulted in a hairline fracture. The Colts would be wise to try and exploit new starting tackle Stone Forsythe. Even though he has an amazing name, has been a subpar pass-blocker his entire NFL career. Laiatu Latu is coming off the best game of his career, and should be salivating at the prospect of going up against Forsythe. There is also the chance that the Raiders are forced to use their tight ends and running backs more in pass-protection, which would lift a massive weight off the linebackers shoulders, considering how bad they have been in pass-coverage.

Kyu Blu Kelly (Raiders)​

Alec Pierce looks like he will be ready to play on Sunday, taking back the No. 2 wide receiver role opposite of Michael Pittman Jr. He was missed against the Rams, because of Mitchell’s mental mistakes that costed the team the game, and will probably be opposite Kyu Blu Kelly (seriously the Raiders have the coolest names in the NFL man). Kelly has been targeted 21 times so far this season, and has been the weak link in the Raiders’ secondary.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/analysis/115743/colts-vs-raiders-week-5-players-to-watch

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Daniel Jones and Colts passing offense matchup well against Raiders defense

Indianapolis Colts quarterback Daniel Jones has not only rebounded his career to become an MVP candidate through the regular season’s first month of play, but he’s unlocked a part of himself. Thanks in large part to head coach Shane Steichen’s usage, Jones has quickly blossomed as one of the league’s worst passers under pressure and/or while blitzed to one of the best.

Heading into the season, Daniel Jones’ career passing numbers under such duress resulted in an uninspiring outlook. Even throughout training camp and preseason play, there was subpar play from Jones in these areas, certainly not enough to predict such an emergence. According to Pro Football Focus, Jones was a career 61.9% thrower when blitzed (466-758) and a brutal 49.8% passer under pressure (384-771).

Fast-forward to a month of regular-season ball with the Colts, and Jones has proven to be lethal against both pressure and/or blitzes. Ironically enough, he’s even struggled at times under zero pressure while thriving against what once was his crux as a quarterback. According to Next Gen Stats, Daniel Jones was under pressure on a season-high 48.6% of his dropbacks against the Los Angeles Rams, yet thrived in those situations, completing 12 of 15 passes for 198 yards and 1 touchdown. Conversely, Jones struggled when not facing pressure from the Rams, completing 12 of 18 passes for just 64 yards while throwing both of his interceptions.

It’s difficult to understand why these aspects have seemingly flipped. Perhaps a regression to the mean is on the way, but at least Jones has proven that he can succeed under duress through the season’s first month of play after a career of shortcomings in said area. Through four weeks, Daniel Jones has generated the highest dropback success rate (61.5%) and gained the most passing yards (470) of any quarterback against the blitz, per Next Gen Stats.

This Sunday will be a solid test for Daniel Jones and his newfound self in the pocket. Superstar pass rusher Maxx Crosby and the Las Vegas Raiders travel to Indianapolis as they search for their second win of the season. The good news for Jones and the Colts’ passing offense is that the Raiders’ playstyle on defense emulates what they’ve thrived against thus far. According to Next Gen Stats, the Raiders have blitzed on 32.7% of opponent dropbacks, the 10-highest rate in the NFL. They’ve generated pressure on only 32.0% of their blitzes, good for the 8th-lowest rate leaguewide.

Daniel Jones has been phenomenal under duress so far this season, and this week will serve as another test to see if the real Danny Dimes is lurking, waiting to return, or if Indiana Jones was the real quarterback under the mask the entire time.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/analys...-offense-matchup-well-against-raiders-defense

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

What is the best use of the Colts limited cap space?

The trade deadline is Nov 4, following our week 9 tilt in Pittsburgh. Our salary cap shows about 4.5 million according to Spotrac. We are not a weak team with massive areas of need, but if I am general managing as though my job depended on making the playoffs, I don’t think I’d leave a chamber empty. That amount is not a lot of wiggle room, unless you plan on moving a player that also has some salary to come off of your total. There could be a couple of cut options.

Free agency is a possibility, but 4.5 mil does not go very far there either.

Let’s start with the wish list, in no particular order:

Number 2 CB.

Ward is taking half of the field away, so whoever is the #2 is going to be targeted. Is Howard’s replacement already on the roster? Washington was added to the 53 man roster over Lammons. Your choice might be Edwards or Blackmon, although Blackmon could be considered more of a slot presence. Hilton filled in admirably for Moore last week, could Kenny move outside in a pinch? It is likely Edwards this week, but it certainly feels like there is room for improvement. Waiting for an injured J. Jones feels somewhere between overly optimistic and reckless.

I did see one column that suggested Cam Taylor-Britt for a conditional 5th, which would basically use up the entire cap space. Bringing back Stephon Gilmore has been brought up, but can he be had for the cap space and what does he have left?

Linebacker(s)

In my humble opinion, this is our weakest link. Our middle is very soft in pass defense and as bad as Howard was, he could have had some underneath support. Franklin is not thriving in this defense and I’m not sure of his value if he is not leading the team in tackles, although that could be a byproduct of the new system. He is currently tied with Buck for third in the category. Bachie is not exactly a coverage asset either. Hopefully, Carlies is the answer upon his return. Franklin could actually have some value in a trade with a team getting pounded on the ground.

Could we consider a bigger Safety in this role? Thinking outside that box might see putting Cross at the Will and Thomas across from Bynum. I can’t see that being received well from the masses. Maybe Scott when healthy?

Pass rush specialist.

While Latu seems to be filling his potential as a first round draft pick, we are not hearing the name on the other side very often. Paye’s production is not matching his salary nor playing time. Maybe he is doing what is required? If the main idea is to push the pocket back and not to lose your lane, he might be doing as instructed. He’s carrying around a 14 mil cap number, so he’s only attractive to someone looking to trade a contract with multiple years, for an expiring contract.

Some have suggested more snaps for Adebawore, even if it is out of position. Hendrickson is popular pick, but a package for him does come with a great deal of difficulties.

Seasoned, versatile OL.

The line didn’t look the same as it did with the core group out there. My worry is that I think we see the same drop off, no matter who might become unavailable. It may not be a talent issue, but only Pinter has much game experience among our backups. There always seems to be a big ugly that is ready to come in and play, ala Glow. It might be a good insurance plan.

I have no answer for this one, as you never know who picks up the phone.

Maybe hold tight until we are sure of the biggest need?

As always, your thoughts are appreciated.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/analysis/115702/what-is-the-best-use-of-the-colts-limited-cap-space

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Indianapolis Colts Injury Report: LB Franklin Misses Practice

The Indianapolis Colts released their Wednesday injury report today for Week 5 of the NFL season ahead of their Sunday game against the Las Vegas Raiders.

wednesday's practice report for #LVvsIND. pic.twitter.com/lDwJC1YdIj

— Indianapolis Colts (@Colts) October 1, 2025

Linebacker Zaire Franklin missed practice with an ankle injury today. Franklin has been a mainstay on the Colts’ defense and is a leader in the locker room. The Colts’ linebacker play has been bad for a while, but the team can’t afford to lose Franklin with the current lack of depth behind him.

Right Guard Matt Goncalves was limited at practice today with a toe injury. Goncalves missed a full week of practice and last Sunday’s game due to the toe injury, so it is good to see him making progress. Goncalves has been brilliant this season in his first year starting at guard, and the team can’t really afford to have him missing a prolonged time.

Cornerback Kenny Moore missed practice today with an Achilles injury. Moore is still not practicing and will continue to miss game time. Expect him to be ruled out quickly this week, too.

Alec Pierce was a full participant at practice day. Pierce missed last week’s game due to a concussion. He continues to remain in the league’s concussion protocol, but a full practice today means he is likely to clear the protocol and play Sunday.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...lts-injury-report-lb-franklin-misses-practice

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Colts head coach has discouraging, yet limited injury update on kicker Spencer Shrader

According to head coach Shane Steichen post-game, “it doesn’t look good” regarding now injured Indianapolis Colts place kicker Spencer Shrader (via 1075 The Fan’s Kevin Bowen):

Shane Steichen on Spencer Shrader's right knee:

"It doesn't look good, but I don't have the full update."

— Kevin Bowen (@KBowen1070) October 5, 2025

Shrader was injured with 7:56 left in the second quarter on an extra point attempt, when he was run over during his post-kicking motion, and roughing the kicker was flagged on Las Vegas Raiders safety Tristin McCollum. S

hrader (right knee) was initially listed as ‘doubtful’ to return before being ruled out entirely in remaining regulation.

In his absence, the Colts elected to go for 2 point conversions (1 for 4) thereafter following their touchdowns, instead of having PAT attempts with presumed backup kicker, current punter Rigoberto Sanchez.

The NFL’s reigning AFC Player of the Month, Shrader, was 2 for 2 in extra point attempts in this one, but it looks as though he’s likely to miss some time here—with the question being how much exactly.

After surprisingly cutting ties with veteran Matt Gay earlier this past offseason, the Colts re-signed Shrader, the 2nd-year kicker, who won out the training camp competition with undrafted rookie Maddux Trujillo.

So far this season, he is 13 for 14 (92.9%) on field goal attempts (including a long successful kick of 52-yards and a game-winning 45-yard kick against Denver in Week 2) and a perfect 14 for 14 in extra point attempts

Veteran free agent kickers include former Colt Michael Badgley, Dustin Hopkins, and Zane Gonzalez among other options. It sounds as though Indianapolis will likely be bringing in some interim replacements for tryouts.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...injury-update-on-place-kicker-spencer-shrader

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Indianapolis Colts Injury Report: WR Pittman Limited Today

The Indianapolis Colts today released their Thursday injury report for Week 5 of the NFL season ahead of their Sunday game against the Las Vegas Raiders.

thursday's practice report for #LVvsIND. pic.twitter.com/znZ7sOTgQE

— Indianapolis Colts (@Colts) October 2, 2025

Wide receiver Michael Pittman was limited at practice today due to a hamstring injury. Pittman was not on the injury report yesterday, so it would appear he sustained the injury during practice today. Pittman will need to be able to practice tomorrow in some capacity to be available for Sunday. He is definitely one to keep an eye on tomorrow.

Wide receiver Alec Pierce was a full participant at practice again today. Pierce appears to be ready to pass through the concussion protocol after managing two back-to-back full practices this week. He will have one final check to complete before Sunday to confirm he can play.

Both linebacker Zaire Franklin and right guard Matt Goncalves were full participants today after being limited yesterday. Franklin, who is dealing with an ankle injury, and Goncalves, who is working his way back from a toe injury, have increased their chances of being able to play this Sunday with today’s practice.

Cornerback Kenny Moore missed practice today with an Achilles injury. Moore is likely to be ruled out of this week’s game after tomorrow’s practice. Mike Hilton will likely get a call-up from the practice squad in Moore’s place.

Defensive end Tyquan Lewis was limited in practice today with an oblique injury. Lewis was not on the injury report yesterday, so it appears the injury occurred in practice today. Lewis is a key part of the defensive line rotation and would be a huge absence for a strong defense.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...-colts-injury-report-wr-pittman-limited-today

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Colts-Cardinals opening odds: Bye Bye Birdie

The Indianapolis Colts don’t meet the Arizona Cardinals often but the last time they did, it was a memorable game with the Colts winning a thriller on Christmas night. The Colts are looking to make some more positive memories at the expense of the Cardinals as they host them in week six from Lucas Oil. The Colts are coming off an incredibly strong performance and would love to add another win to their early season total. FanDuel Sportsbook is giving the Colts the nod with a 5.5-point advantage in the spread.

The over/under sits at 46.5 while the money line comes in at -240.

What can you say about the Colts demolishing the Las Vegas Raiders? Almost everything went perfectly scoring six straight touchdowns and downing them 40-6. Both sides of the ball dominated and kept this one from getting too interesting for too long. Spencer Shrader’s injury and the inability to convert two point conversions at a solid clip were the only two blemishes. Outside of that, the offense continued to look dominate, and it was a perfect bounce back for the defense.

Meanwhile, the Cardinals got the gift that keeps on giving in the form of the Tennessee Titans, yet they somehow fumbled the bag. Kyler Murray had his team out in front 21-6 through three quarters, but then it became the “Cam Ward” game. Yes, he was intercepted towards the end which resulted in a bizarre interception/fumble sequence, but he lead them close enough to recover in the endzone and scored a touchdown on the previous drive. All of that set the Titans up to kick the game winning field goal. It was a major collapse for the Cardinals against a winless team. They will be looking to get out quickly to put this one behind them.

While certainly not considered juggernauts, the Cardinals will be one of the tougher tests the Colts have faced this season. It would be another step towards validating Daniel Jones and this team as a whole. It would also continue to keep the hype train running on this unexpected season by moving them to 5-1 through the first six. Containing Kyler Murray won’t be easy, but if done, expect the Colts to cover and get the win.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/analysis/115806/colts-cardinals-opening-odds-bye-bye-birdie

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

This is ‘The Colture’ that Colts GM Chris Ballard has Envisioned

Indianapolis, IN — For years, Indianapolis Colts general manager Chris Ballard preached patience without following through with a worthwhile product. From the uncertainty that was the quarterback carousel post-Luck to the uninspiring free agent cycles of yesteryear were just two of this regime’s biggest shortcomings thus far, with many more deficiencies scattered throughout. Through five weeks in the 2025-26 season, however, Colts fans and media members alike are singing a much different tune.

Chris Ballard has also preached continuity during this timeframe, though until now it seemed like wishful thinking more than anything. After consecutive offseasons of ‘running it back’ to no avail, this front office recognized its shortcomings up to that point, and in response, deviated from the norm in the biggest way yet. It’s important to acknowledge that it’s still early in the season, but that hesitancy is quickly turning into conviction. This Colts team is different, and it’s not solely in the way the roster was constructed.

Before Shane Steichen became the team’s head coach, and even a couple of times during his tenure thus far, the Colts have shown a tendency to get comfortable with a lead and either choke it away entirely or merely give the opposition a chance it should’ve never had. Conversely, when this team used to appear down and out, once momentum was established on the other side of the field, poise typically fell apart. Nowadays, the Colts are remaining confidently feisty, while also playing their most complementary football of the Ballard era.

As alluded to, the Colts aren’t just maintaining their leads; they’re putting their foot on the opposition’s neck as they do their worst to put them down for good. Against the Miami Dolphins in the season-opener, Indy walked into halftime with a 20-0 lead, and still came out in the second half swinging as they put up 13 more points. Similarly, two weeks later, the Colts traveled South to take on the Tennessee Titans and put up 21 points in the second half after entering halftime with a strong 20-6 lead. Finally, against the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday, a 40-6 rout. The total beatdown from start to finish all but solidifies that, at the absolute worst, this Colts team will be an impressively hard out.

Turning that comfort of a lead into a kill shot is not all that showcases this to be the team that Chris Ballard always envisioned, but that, coupled with everything laid before it, does. The complementary play, the absence of ego, and selfless togetherness that’s been on full display through five weeks is precisely what Ballard and Co. had been building towards. It’s now a culture — or Colture, if you will — that seems sustainable.

Arguably, the biggest change in what’s allowed the front office’s previous wrongs to be righted so quickly has been the newfound philosophy from the new-look Colts’ ownership. Many doubters and/or misogynistic detractors deemed the Irsay daughters’ reign to be strictly nepotism-related, though this succession plan has long been in place and is already paying dividends. Not only did Ballard and Co.‘s recent uncharacteristic spending in free agency come during their first offseason as owners, but CEO Carlie Irsay-Gordon and her sisters vowed to prioritize winning and promised to uphold a new version of accountability, and so far, they’ve done just that.

“I know it could be misunderstood to say, I don’t like talking just about winning. I like talking about being the best,” Irsay-Gordon said during her and her sisters’ opening press conference as new owners of the Indianapolis Colts. “… I feel like to say ‘win’ is just more outcome-oriented, right? It’s more outcome-oriented, more short-term. To me, it’s about being the best.”

The recent big fish free-agent acquisitions of defensive backs Charvarius Ward and Camryn Bynum, as well as what’s become one in quarterback Daniel Jones, are undeniably what have allowed this team to blossom into a top-tier operation. The resurgence of Jones, thanks to the marriage between him and Shane Steichen, is inarguably what’s gotten the ball rolling, but outside of those three additions lies a roster chock-full of Chris Ballard bets.

It’s been resurfaced ad nauseam — the abrupt retirement of Andrew Luck — to showcase what type of rebound Ballard and Co. had their hands full of, and although that fact is constantly faced with eye-roll reactions as if that bears no weight in the outlook of a franchise, it’s easy to see now. Perhaps the Colts were always a steady-handed quarterback away, or maybe that, in tandem with much-needed self-reflection from a managerial standpoint, is what has resulted in such a drastic turnaround in not only success, but demeanor. What is undeniable is that this Colts team is firing on all cylinders in all three phases, and while the players and coaching staff deserve their credit in righting the ship, so does this refreshed front office, as well as the new ownership from Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Kalen Jackson, and Casey Foyt.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/analys...re-that-colts-gm-chris-ballard-has-envisioned

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Colts’ Week 5 QB Analysis: I think I believe

Thanks to the nflFastR project, Pro Football Focus and NFL NextGen Stats for the timely sources of data.

For those of you new to this, I will publish key QB stats each week judging how well the Colts’ QB performed. Yes, O-Line, receivers, and play-calling impact these numbers but they are primarily QB measures. I will probably modify the charts throughout the season. Commentary will be brief but feel free to let me know in the comments that stats aren’t everything. (click charts for larger view)

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HOW WELL?​

In week 5, Daniel Jones avoided turnovers and sacks and put up another highly efficient game, ranking 6th in both EPA efficiency and QB Success Rate. His positive plays were highly productive, while his negative plays minimized damage.

His weekly numbers show that he has been very consistent so far, with only the LA game falling short of top-tier performance. What he has done so far in Indy is nothing short of remarkable.

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HOW FAR?​

There’s really nothing to pick apart here. He completed plenty of passes, moved the chains consistently, and added a couple of touchdowns. He stayed under 20 air yards for most of the game, but that’s not a negative. Deep passes are exciting, but consistent completions are what get you to the end zone.

Jones still has an above average depth of target and depth of completion.

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TO WHO?​

He continues to distribute the ball effectively. Downs led the team in targets, but Dulin ultimately edged him out in total yards.

For the season, Warren still leads in yards and Pittman leads in targets and I am OK with that.

The shorter throws earned less EPA, which is common.

All receivers except for Mitchell are providing outstanding value per target.

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HOW ACCURATE?​

Jones’ completion rate was high, but with the shorter throws, that was expected. His CPOE dipped below average for the first time this year, but that isn’t a concern at this point. His ability to complete passes with the Colts is far ahead of where he was with the Giants.

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HOW FAST?​

He was very quick with his throws this week, and after adjusting for passing depth, he’s getting rid of the ball faster than almost every QB in the league. My number one complaint about the new breed of running QBs is that they hold onto the ball too long—inviting pressure and abandoning the pass to scramble, which is usually a bad trade-off. Jones doesn’t do that.

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TO WHERE?​

He mostly stayed within 20 yards, and it worked out well. The right side of the field wasn’t working for him this week, so it’s good that he steered away from it.

Notice the lack of red in the following graph—Jones has been effective all over the field.

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DASHBOARD​

mouseover definitions: epa/d, median EPA gain in similar game situation (down, distance, etc.)”>arsr, 3 yards to gain in game-neutral situations”>edp, opd, pr%, tip, ttt, adot, ay/c, yac, yacoe, yd/c, ac%, cpoe, aypa, scr%, ta%, sck%, aa%, aay, ny/d, ny/p, 1st%, td%, to%, 0″>qbsr epa/p, adj/p

• Despite the run game performing at a high level, the Colts stuck with a pass-first offense (2nd asr, 5th edp)
• Jones was not pressured much, mostly because he got rid of the ball so quickly (22ndpr%, 26th ttt)
• His passing depth was about average, but his completions were much deeper than average. That usually implies a trade-off in YAC, but even so, the Colts’ receivers gave him very little after the catch (17th adot, 8th ay/c, 31st yac, 22nd yacoe)
• His 73.3% adjusted completion rate (drops and throw-aways removed) was only slightly above average, resulting in a less-than-impressive yards per attempt (14th ac%, 17th aypa).
• He didn’t scramble, instead relying on throw-aways to handle pressure, resulting in no sacks and a continued low abandonment rate (29th scr%, 10th ta%, 20th sck%, 28th aa%)
• That boosted his net yards per play, but it was still only about league average. (15th ny/d, 15th ny/p)
• Where he excelled was in the value plays that aren’t measured in yards. He threw for a lot of first downs, added a couple of touchdowns, and didn’t turn the ball over (7th 1st%, 9th TD%, 24th TO%). That dramatically lifted his “just average” overall yardage efficiency to the 6th-best EPA efficiency of the week.

mouseover definitions: ay<, dp%, ay/c, yac, yd/c, ac%, aypa, drp%, aypa, ta%, ypa, sck%, ny/a, scr%, ny/d, car%, ny/p, 1st%, any/p, td%, any/p, to%, any/p, epa/p, opd, adj/p

His efficeicny curve shows no real weaknesses. He is highly efficient and even after adjusting for opponent he is a top 5 QB.

In 2019, the Colts jumped out to a 5-2 start under Jacoby Brissett, but that was really a mirage. Brissett played well, but there were clear red flags in his numbers that signaled it couldn’t last. I see no such weaknesses in Jones’ play so far—he’s light years ahead of what Brissett delivered then. I hate the term “elite,” but if people are going to use it, they should be applying it to Jones’ first 5 weeks as a Colt

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/nfl-an...02/colts-week-5-qb-analysis-i-think-i-believe

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Colts Early Season report card

Daniel Jones: A –​

Jones is giving the Colts exactly what they needed, and even more, from the quarterback position. He is completing a high percentage of his passes, with a 71.3% completion rate, keeping the ball moving, taking excellent care of the football with just a turnover-worthy play rate of 2.8%, and constantly hitting the open guy. Indiana Jones is enjoying a career resurgence with an excellent supporting cast around him, and away from the blinding New York spotlight. The Colts’ front office should already start figuring out a contract that keeps him here.

Jonathan Taylor: A +​

Leading the league in total touchdowns and rushing yards, Jonathan Taylor is enjoying the best start to a season in his entire career. He is an MVP candidate at this point, and the biggest reason why the Colts offense is dominating. He has also improved a lot in both pass protection, posting an 84.9 pass-blocking grade according to PFF.com, and catching balls out of the backfield, adding 16 receptions for 133 yards and a touchdown, already equaling what he did last season. There is nothing more you could ask from a running back that Taylor is not already excellent at.

Wide receivers / Tight ends: B +​

Michael Pittman Jr. is also enjoying the best start to a season in his career, especially regarding the scoring area, where, through just five games, he is two touchdowns away from his career high. MPJ is a much better fit with a quarterback like Daniel Jones, and he has established himself as his favourite red zone target. Alec Pierce has missed two games with a concussion, but before that he was still being used as the deep threat in the offense, averaging 19 yards per catch. Josh Downs had his best game against the Raiders, and is amazing at moving the chains, always an important quality for a receiver. The one disappointment in this group has been Adonai Mitchell, who in the game against the Rams cost the team the win after inexplicably dropping a ball before scoring, and then drawing a holding flag that negated what would have been a 53-yard touchdown run by JT.

Tyler Warren leads all NFL tight ends in receiving yards, is second in first downs, and ranks 8th in run-blocking for tight ends with more than 50% of possible snaps. There is not much more you can ask from him, especially keeping in mind that tight ends usually struggle a bit coming out of college. For comparisons sake, Colston Loveland through three games has just amassed 3 receptions for 43 yards.

Offensive line: B +​

The offensive line has been solid for the Colts once again, with two new starters in Tanor Bortolini and Matt Goncalves. From left to right, Bernhard Raimann has continued his emergence as a top left tackle in the NFL, though he did struggle against the Rams but overall has had a really good year. Quenton Nelson has missed a step in pass-blocking, but is still an elite run blocker and the Colts use him in creative ways getting him in space against cornerbacks. Tanor Bortolini has been unspectacular but mistake free. His smaller frame means he sometimes gets overpowered in pass-protection, but he has been among the best centers run blocking. Matt Goncalves has been the biggest surprise this season, perhaps the best offensive lineman of the team thus far, and his importance was highlighted on the game he missed against the Rams. Braden Smith has been average, which is okay.

---

Defensive line: B +​

The biggest beneficiaries from Lou Anarumo as the defensive coordinator, the defensive line has been much more productive rushing the passer. Laiatu Latu has been playing well, and has now two interceptions along with 16 total pressures through just four games. Stewart and Buckner have been as good as they have been the past three seasons, no surprises there. The problem perhaps has been the opposing end. Kwity Paye is an okay run-defender, but a non-factor against the pass, with just 6 total pressures on 110 pass rushing reps. Samson Ebukam is still getting his rythm back after an Achilles tear last season, and rookie J.T. Tuimoloau has been a healthy scratch more than half the games.

Neville Gallimore and Adetomiwa Adebawore have both been surprisingly productive this season, and Tyquan Lewis continues being an underrated rotational linemen that consistently contributes, leading the team in sacks thus far.

Linebackers: C​

I have been very critical of him, but Zaire Franklin has adjusted well to Anarumo’s scheme. I thought he was going to get exposed a lot, but he has been solid against the run, while not a complete liability covering tight ends and running backs. He is still a step slow in pass-coverage, and does not create turnovers, but he is not the reason why the Colts’ linebacker group gets such a low grade. That is on Joe Bachie, who was brought in because of his experience with Anarumo. He has been sub-par in pass coverage, a liability against the run, and no explosive plays (no forced fumbles, fumble recoveries, sacks, interceptions, or tackles for loss). Bachie has been the definition of Just a Guy, and the Colts have to be looking at upgrades here if they are serious about contending.

Secondary: B +​

Camryn Bynum and Charvarius “Mooney” Ward have both been impeccable additions to the secondary, with both being as good as advertised, Ward perhaps even more. Along with them, young safety Nick Cross took another step forward after a breakout season last year, slot cornerback Kenny Moore was his usual self before an Achilles injury forced him to miss some games.

Speaking of injuries, that has been a big part of the Colts’ secondary this season. Rookie Justin Walley will miss the entire season, #2 corner Jaylon Jones was placed on IR dealing with a hamstring injury, and Moore’s replacement Mike Hilton is now on the injury report dealing with a shoulder issue. Xavien Howard, who was brought in after Jones went down, was so bad that he retired after just four starts. In Mekhi Blackmon and UDFA Johnathan Edwards the Colts are hoping to find at least something serviceable until Jones is ready to return.

---

Special teams: B​

Spencer Shrader’s injury sucks because he was exactly what the Colts needed from their kicker: automatic under 50 yards. He was even coming off the longest make of his career, and kicked a game-winner against the Broncos. There is not much we can say about Rigoberto Sanchez, because he has just 7 punts, the least in the NFL. Kickoff coverage has been average.

Coaching staff: A –​

Steichen’s seat was among the hottest in the NFL to kick off the season, and when he made the decision to start Daniel Jones over Richardson I’ll admit I was fuming. The Colts are #1 in the NFL, but it is not only their record, is how they got there: dominating the “bad” opponents (Dolphins, Titans, Raiders), while also playing better than solid opposition (Broncos, Rams). The reason for the A – is because of two issues I have with the coaching staff. The first was the conservative play-calling against the Broncos on the final drive of the game, where the Colts were forced to kick a field goal over 60 yards, way out of Shrader’s range, after Steichen ran the ball three consecutive times, gaining no yards. The 15-yard flag ended up giving the Colts another chance, which Shrader ended up making, bailing out Steichen. The second one is how Anarumo handled Puka Nacua against the Rams. Even taking into account that certain players like Nacua you can only hope to contain, having Xavien Howard, who retired after the game, on an island several times against a receiver of that caliber was a disaster waiting to happen.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/analysis/115857/colts-early-season-report-card

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Week 5 Film Review: Colts Dominate the Las Vegas Raiders

After a heartbreaking loss to the Rams, the Colts got back on track in a big way on Sunday. When you look at the box score you’re almost surprised it was 40-6, but it was as convincing a win as you can have in the National Football League.

The Colts were decisively better in all three phases and it wasn’t close. There’s a lot of very good football being played right now, and if everyone stays healthy, it’s very hard to see how that will change.

---

Obviously, since it was the first pass of the game, this is a play the Raiders teed up all week.

I'm not entirely sure it's bad defense, though. pic.twitter.com/uFzwIKwkve

— Colts Film Room (@ColtsFilmRoom) October 8, 2025

The first couple drives for the Colts did not go as smoothly as the following three quarters did, so lets start there. Chip Kelly had a surgical opening script that marched the Raiders down the field early in this game.

This is the first pass of the game, so you know that the Raiders have been practicing this all week. As soon as Geno sees the Colts align in man coverage, he checks to to a very popular downfield pick play.

This is a really nice throw from Geno under pressure, but the details of the play are what make it tough on a defense.

You can see Jakobi Myers line up on the outside edge of the numbers. That is extremely important on this concept. The reason for that is because Ward will be head-up or inside leverage from that split. If you line up any tighter to the numbers you’re risking that DB playing off and outside, which would let him make a play on the Rail.

When Myers goes to set the pick on Bachie, watch him track his near shoulder which makes him go underneath. That’s huge because it makes it really hard for Bachie to recover.

DeForest Buckner wins his 1-on-1 and gets a hit on the QB, but even when you get blown out, you’re bound to make a few plays.

---

These are some of the mistakes in the run game that are to be expected as your transitioning into a new system.

The Colts run defense has steadily improved by EPA over the first month and the hope is that less of these mistakes pop up as we get into more meaningful football. pic.twitter.com/QIs4jp5jPz

— Colts Film Room (@ColtsFilmRoom) October 8, 2025

When Lou Anarumo was hired, some struggles early in the season were to be expected. The Colts went from one of the league’s most basic systems, to a much more complex system that was in line with the league’s current trends.

Learning, communicating, and practicing that system takes time. It doesn’t happen right away, especially with how the CBA limits practice time in the offseason.

The Colts fit the run completely different than how they did with Gus Bradley. With Gus, it was a gap control system where each player had a gap in the run game and flew off the ball to fit that gap. With Lou it’s more about block control. It takes a level of discipline that is easier said than done.

Here the Colts are in a Bear look. Bear just means both the center and the guards are covered.

The reason I know this is a missed assignment is because Zaire Franklin and Grover Stewart end up in the same gap. My guess is that this is a run stunt, and one of the two did not get the call correct. Someone has to be in the frontside A gap, whether that’s Zaire or Grover. So either Zaire pressured the wrong gap or Grover is supposed work into that frontside A.

These mistakes happen, but you expect over time that they will pop up less and less.

---

Colts put Josh Downs into the boundary as the de facto Z to get him matched up on Devin White.

I like the Tyreek Hill motion from the TE because it creates space for this choice if Downs wanted to break this outside. pic.twitter.com/Bv46Bq3bXc

— Colts Film Room (@ColtsFilmRoom) October 6, 2025

Ok now let’s get into the good stuff. Here the Colts are getting Josh Downs into the boundary to run what I am going to assume is a choice route. The Colts have a “Swap” tag onto their formation which just tells Pittman and Downs to switch spots from where they normally line up.

That’s really important because the Raiders are in Cover 2 and Josh Downs is now matched up on Devin White. That is a big win for the Colts. Watch Downs stick his foot in the ground to really influence White before breaking inside.

Most LB’s just cannot cover that. Pretty simple, but wanted to point it out because Josh Downs does not often line up in this spot.

---

A good portion of the gameplan for Indy was to lift coverage and then make the Raiders make a tackle in space. pic.twitter.com/KhHd4g5OR0

— Colts Film Room (@ColtsFilmRoom) October 6, 2025

Josh Downs had a great day working the underneath zones of the field. The Colts thought they could lift the coverage by running verticals, it could create space underneath for Downs to move the chains.

---

I've broken down Duo Wrap before.

I'm definitely wrong on this, but the only team I've seen calling this on the goalline is the Detroit Lions. pic.twitter.com/szqodxMf7t

— Colts Film Room (@ColtsFilmRoom) October 7, 2025

This is a play called Duo Wrap. Like a WWE wrestler, this has been the Colts finishing move. They wait until your defense is tired in the fourth quarter and your corners no longer want to tackle. If you remember the 2023 Steelers game, this is the same call to close that one out.

Here the Colts called it in a down and distance I’ve never seen them use before. Running this play by the goalline is tough because the DL is covering more horizontal space with the natural roof behind them. That can make it difficult because your guard has no room for error. He has to go.

Duo Wrap is a counter to the traditional Duo run. I’ve broken the play down on the website before, but for those who are new, I’ll run through it again.

Duo is downhill run that tries to maximize double teams at the point of attack. The way the blocking scheme is set up, there’s always going to be one unblocked corner. As a counter, instead of a downhill penetrating run, coaches wanted to create a wrinkle that forced that corner to have to make a play in the run game.

A lot of teams motion a WR and run this play, but when you have one of the best guards to ever play the position, you can run this play with ease. The idea is that the backside guard will “wrap” for that playside corner, while the RB has automatic bounce read. Meaning that his job is to just follow that puller.

Michigan, Ohio State, and the Detroit Lions are some of the teams that I’ve seen run this as often as the Colts.

---

Colts running 13P Duo and motioning Tyler Warren to get 6 hands on Maxx Crosby pic.twitter.com/MevosVQSug

— Colts Film Room (@ColtsFilmRoom) October 6, 2025

We’re working backwards here, but this is typical Duo. The Colts needed to have a plan for Maxx Crosby. Here they motioned Tyler Warren into the formation in order to get an extra body on Maxx. The Raiders are light in the box which makes this easy. It’s just good football, man.

---

The Mekhi Blackmon INT was on a Creeper with 2-Trap behind it.

Mehki is in a 1×8 alignment and his job is to key the #2 receiver and jump anything into the flat. pic.twitter.com/bhq4b5ss0M

— Colts Film Room (@ColtsFilmRoom) October 7, 2025

Let’s talk about trap coverage. 2-Trap is an aggressive form of Cover 2 that punishes teams for trying to get anything quick into the flat. Mekhi Blackmon’s job is to key the #2 WR. If there’s anything quick, his job is to jump it fast. He can do that because he knows the safety will be over the top to cover anything deep from the #1 WR.

This is a really nice coverage to pair with slot pressure because some teams will run something quick vs. slot pressure to attack the void the slot CB is leaving by pressuring. It’s a good call and good execution.

---

This is my fifth film breakdown and I’m really struggling to find negative plays that aren’t nitpicking or just small details. The Colts are playing really good football right now, which I feel like I just keep saying over and over again. It’s been incredible to watch this team.

Everyone deserves credit. Shane Steichen, who many wanted fired a month ago, Chris Ballard, Carly Irsay-Gordon, Daniel Jones, the list just goes on and on. There’s a long way to go, and the “Super Bowl contender” tag is very ambitious for a team that doesn’t have a ton of playoff pedigree, but as I’m typing this article out today… how can you not be impressed, excited, and optimistic?

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/colts-...m-review-colts-dominate-the-las-vegas-raiders

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Does the Colts recent success ease the pressure on Chris Ballard?

Ah, winning. Supporting a winning team increases dopamine and pushes fans to seek more input regarding their favorite team: social media, sports talk radio, analysts coverage, and just watching more sports in general. Instead of having to hide from the world for an entire week to forgot about a bad team, winning just makes everything that much better. The Indianapolis Colts have been winning. Being 4-1 to start the year has been an incredible change in direction from previous seasons, and Chris Ballard deserves credit. Has there been enough winning to make him feel comfortable, though?

The start the Colts have had is great, but it doesn’t guarantee them of anything. There is a solid chance they make the playoffs, but there is still a chance they don’t. Everything could fall apart, but right now, things are looking pretty dang good. The recent broadcast mentioned how this roster has been drafted and built as a direct cause for this success. While there are many factors at play, that is simply true. Injuries have played a factor but when healthy, the defense is made up of a lot of homegrown talent, and when turning the mirror around, the offense is even more so. Outside of Daniel Jones and a couple undrafted players, that offense was specifically drafted by Chris Ballard and his team. Ballard has had plenty of misses in his career, but it is looking like his master plan is coming into focus.

Not only are the players he directly drafted paying dividends, but his other shrewd moves are coming into play as well. Look no further than the aforementioned Jones. Is any quarterback playing better than him? That will be left for others to debate but much more couldn’t be asked. Ballard saw the potential and brought him in. He made the biggest trade of his career to acquire DeForest Buckner who has been nothing short of phenomenal in the blue and white. Cam Bynum and “Mooney” Ward have been excellent pick-ups to shore up the secondary. That was one Ballard’s greatest weakness; being unwilling to use free agency to build a roster. His first major venture into that arena has proven to be worthwhile. It has taken years but Ballard seems to be pressing the right buttons now.

The question is whether this success relieves the pressure he had to be feeling as the season approached. The answer is yes. Yes, with a caveat. The pressure is reducing with each win, but that doesn’t mean it is gone or should disappear completely. Chris Ballard has had nine years to get this right and has made plenty of mistakes getting to this point. We are finally seeing some of the fruits of his labor, but that is a long germination period. The other side of the coin is whether it continues, not just this season but into next. Success in 2025 will most likely mean another year of Ballard, and that is fine. If he shows he can build a winning roster, there is zero reason to move on from him. If the Colts dissolve down the stretch or fall back to the mean next year, it might mean bye-bye Ballard, however.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/analys...nt-success-ease-the-pressure-on-chris-ballard

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Indianapolis Colts Injury Report: DE Lewis Returns To Practice

The Indianapolis Colts today released their Thursday injury report for Week 6 of the NFL season ahead of their Sunday game against the Arizona Cardinals.

thursday's practice report for #AZvsIND. pic.twitter.com/yynSKpNSHT

— Indianapolis Colts (@Colts) October 9, 2025

Defensive end Tyquan Lewis was a full participant at practice today after missing yesterday’s practice due to illness. Lewis managing to practice today puts him on track to play in Sundays game against the Cardinals.

Cornerback Kenny Moore missed practice again today due to an Achilles injury. Moore is still struggling with the injury that has sidelined him for multiple weeks now. He is more than likely going to miss another game due to injury this week.

Wide Receiver Alec Pierce was a full participant at practice today as he is dealing with a concussion. Pierce had now practice during both sessions this week but tomorrow will be important to know his game day status. Pierce could miss his third game this week due to the concussion.

Right tackle Braden Smith was a full participant at practice today after missing practice yesterday due to a scheduled restart. Whereas defensive tackle

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...ts-injury-report-de-lewis-returns-to-practice

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

How to make sure Stampede Blue shows up in your Google search

As many of you are likely aware, Google searches are … different these days.

The good news is Google is offering a solution for folks who like to get their news from specific sources. If you want to help Stampede Blue — while also streamlining all your Google searches — there is now a way.

Simply click on this link and add Stampede Blue as one of your “Source preferences.” That’s all there is to it!

Back in August, the tech giant debuted a feature called “Preferred Sources.” It’s a way for Google to prominently feature the results from websites you trust, like Stampede Blue:

“With the launch of Preferred Sources in the U.S. and India, you can select your favorite sources and stay up to date on the latest content from the sites you follow and subscribe to — whether that’s your favorite sports blog or a local news outlet. …

“When you select your preferred sources, you’ll start to see more of their articles prominently displayed within Top Stories, when those sources have published fresh and relevant content for your search.”

As some of you might know, AI searches are hurting outlets around the world and in all spaces. We’ve worked hard at Stampede Blue to build a brand you can trust and rely on for Indianapolis Colts coverage. Our goal is to serve you, the fans.

If you’re a fan of our work and want to get the best Indianapolis Colts coverage possible, this is an excellent win-win to improve your Google searches while helping Stampede Blue out.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...preferred-sources-search-results-instructions

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Colts cruise into Week 6 prepared to host reeling Cardinals

There is a buzz alive in Indianapolis heading into Sunday’s Week 6 matchup against the Arizona Cardinals and the result may show if the optimism is built to last.

The Colts sit atop the AFC standings after racing out to a 4-1 start, showing that this revamped team can do more than just compete. This stampede sporting blue throttles opponents, outscoring teams 143-62 across their four wins.

The dominance delivered in the first month of the 2025 season was punctuated by blowouts that remind the league how dangerous the Colts can be when clicking on both sides of the ball. Indianapolis holds an NFL-best plus-74 point differential that started with a 33-8 thrashing of the Miami Dolphins in the season opener, which tied the largest win margin in Lucas Oil Stadium history.

Colts head coach Shane Steichen orchestrated an offense that reached the end zone on six straight possessions last week, which tied the franchise’s longest scoring streak in 30 years. The 40-6 demolition of the Las Vegas Raiders last Sunday set a new record for the Colts’ largest win margin inside Lucas Oil Stadium.

whole buncha dawgs pic.twitter.com/bEboWzjbB2

— Indianapolis Colts (@Colts) October 8, 2025

The Colts have scored on 30 out of 44 true possessions, which is the highest rate in the league. Indianapolis ranks second in the NFL averaging 32.6 points per game and 6.3 yards per play, which is a testament to the creativity and execution that define Steichen’s thriving run-pass-option system.

At the heart of Indy’s steamrolling offense is star running back Jonathan Taylor, who leads the league with 480 rushing yards and six touchdowns on 94 carries. The sixth-year veteran marked his 13th career game with multiple touchdowns in Sunday’s rout of the Raiders.

Quarterback Daniel Jones was brought in as the eighth different Week 1 starter in the last nine seasons with hopes to finally discover some stability under center. And thus far, Jones has surpassed most expectations thriving on efficiency and smart decision making while running play action. Despite ranking just 16th in pass attempts, Jones sits third in the NFL with 1,290 passing yards. The Colts rank fourth averaging 253 passing yards per game.

Run Action Rate (Runs/Play Action)

T-1. DET/IND 65%
3. GB 64%
4. SEA 62.2%
5. DEN 58.2%

Via @NextGenStats

— Ben Fennell (@BenFennell_NFL) October 10, 2025

Receiver Michael Pittman Jr., the veteran leader of Indy’s receiving corps, is tied for fifth in the league with four touchdown grabs, including scores in three straight games for the second time in his career. Rookie tight end Tyler Warren has quickly emerged as one of the NFL’s biggest hits from the 2025 NFL Draft and should already be considered an elite player at his respective position. Warren leads all NFL tight ends with 307 receiving yards on 23 catches, averaging an impressive 13.3 yards per catch. Indy’s first round draft pick has breached the end zone with a run, with a catch and while deployed as the lead blocker for Taylor.

As the focus shifts to stopping Arizona’s own talented pass-catcher duo of Marvin Harrison Jr. and Trey McBride, Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray is officially listed as questionable while dealing a foot injury. Harrison is the son of Hall of Fame receiver Marvin Harrison Sr., who set franchise records with 1,102 receptions, 14,580 receiving yards and 128 touchdowns across 13 seasons in Indianapolis. The Colts’ secondary will have its hands full while playing without veteran cornerback Kenny Moore II, who will miss his third straight game while dealing with a delicate Achilles injury.

The Cardinals visit Indy coming off three consecutive heart-breaking losses by a combined five points. Cardinals head coach Jonathan Gannon will oppose Steichen for the first time since they both were coordinators leading the Philadelphia Eagles to an appearance in Super Bowl LVII.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/analysis/116093/colts-face-speed-bump-against-reeling-cardinals

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Players to watch: Week 5 vs. Cardinals

Quenton Nelson​

Nelson has been having a really weird season to evaluate so far. On one hand, he is among the best run blockers in the NFL, Steichen is really creative getting him into space with JT running behind him, and is one of the biggest reasons why Taylor is having such a dominant season. On the other hand however, he has been suspect in pass-protection, with the lowest PFF.com grade in that department thus far for the Colts’ offensive line, and the lowest in his career. It is worth monitoring whether this has been just a bleep in the radar for Big-Q, or a reason for concern.

Josh Downs​

Downs had a slow start to the season before having his best game against the Raiders. With Tyler Warren taking over the middle of the field and also drawing his fair share of targets, Downs has been a bit left behind. His best virtue has always been his ability to get first downs, and the Cardinals slot coverage this season has been somewhat iffy, so keep an eye out for JD.

Samson Ebukam​

Ebukam is slowly getting back his form in his return from a torn Achilles last training camp, and had his best game against the Raiders. The edge rusher position opposite Laiatu Latu is wide open, so a strong showing could earn him meaningful playing time down the stretch. The Cardinals’ offensive line has one really good tackle in Paris Johnson Jr., and one that is struggling a lot so far in Jonah Williams. There are two possible scenarios, if Kyler plays then keeping the edge contained and not allowing him to break the pocket is going to be crucial, now if backup Jacoby Brissett has to play then pressuring him from all possible areas will make the game much easier for the Colts’ defense.

Michael Badgley​

With Spencer Shrader on IR with a torn ACL and meniscus, the Colts brought back the Money Badger to the team. Shader was leading the NFL in field goal attempts before the injury, a reflection how well the offense was moving the ball. Steichen might be forced to be more aggressive in his red zone approach given that Badgley is not an automatic make under 50 yards like Shrader was. The success of Badgley could end up being really important for the rest of the Colts’ season.

Will Johnson, (Cardinals, cornerback)​

Johnson was picked two selections after J.T. Tuimoloau, who has played just 40 total snaps this season and was even a healthy scratch a couple of weeks. Johnson on the other hand has been among the best cornerbacks in the NFL. Five games is a small sample size and the main issue with Johnson was always longetivity, but it still hurts that the Colts did not get him, as he would force one of the best cornerback duos with Ward.

Marvin Harrison Jr. (Cardinals, guess the position)​

Speaking of Ward, he will be up against the son of a certain Colts’ legendary wide receiver. MHJ had a terrible start to the season, dealing with drops and lack of production, but has picked up the pace a bit the past two weeks. His production will also depend on whether Kyler Murray is able to suit up for the game or not, but it will nevertheless be a fun matchup to watch.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/analysis/116070/players-to-watch-week-5-vs-cardinals

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Behind ground game, Colts grind out tough home win, 31-27, against Cardinals

Even with the Arizona Cardinals starting backup quarterback Jacoby Brissett in this one, the game would come down to the final minutes—as the Indianapolis Colts eked out a tough 31-27 home win.

The Colts offense once again heavily rode the hot hand of Jonathan Taylor and the ground game. Taylor remains a legitimate MVP and Offensive Player of the Year candidate and had 21 carries for 123 total rushing yards and a rushing touchdown—including the game-winning touchdown run with 4:32 left in the 4th quarter.

I wouldn’t say this was Daniel Jones strongest performance as a Colt, but he he was largely sound in this one—and at the very least, good enough for Indianapolis to win with.

The veteran quarterback completed 22 of 30 pass attempts for 212 total passing yards, 2 passing touchdowns, and an interception. He also had a 3-yard touchdown run with 7:51 left in the first half.

Rookie Tyler Warren led the Colts with 6 receptions and 63 total receiving yards, including an 8-yard touchdown reception early in the first quarter. Wideout Josh Downs also had a touchdown reception in this one on a 5-yard touchdown pass with 13:12 left in the 4th quarter.

New Colts veteran linebacker Germaine Pratt led the defense with 11 tackles (8 solo). Starting defensive end Kwity Paye had the Colts only 2 sacks on the afternoon. Starting cornerback Mekhi Blackmon had an interception off Brissett with 13:17 left in the 2nd quarter. It was important because it essentially wiped out Jones’ recent pick.

With 400 total offensive yards surrendered, Brissett and the Cardinals offense were surprisingly more effective than initially anticipated headed into this one. The unexpected loss of starting cornerback Charvarius Ward (concussion) in pregame warmups certainly played a factor.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/indian...nd-out-tough-home-win-31-27-against-cardinals

 

[Indianapolis Colts]

Colts pass rush with season-best performance against Cardinals

Indianapolis, IN — The Indianapolis Colts’ pass rush through five weeks had been touted as a struggling unit that lacked consistency. This unit has been getting the job done, but a below-average pressure percentage (T-21st) and league-worst (T-31st) get-off rate has raised questions as to whether or not this group has enough juice to last for the entire season. Against the Arizona Cardinals, however, Indy’s pass rush put on its strongest showing yet.

Lou Anarumo’s Colts defense attacked the veteran spot-starting QB Jacoby Brissett early and often, resulting in virtually the only time its pass defense was able to stop the Cardinals through the air. The Colts pressured Jacoby Brissett on 48.9% of his dropbacks on Sunday, the highest single-game pressure rate for Indy this season, according to Next Gen Stats.

Against the Colts, Brissett completed just 6 of 20 passes for 91 yards when under pressure; he was pressured 23 times and sacked twice. When not facing pressure, he was significantly more effective, completing 21 of 24 attempts for 229 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception. Brissett’s 87.5% completion percentage and 75.0% success rate from a clean pocket are both the highest by a Cardinals QB this season, via NFL Pro Insights.

To further explain just how often the Colts were garnering pressure, Pro Football Focus’s in-game data had them totaling 29 pressures, 20 of which were categorized as QB Hurries. Of this consistent showing, the biggest contributors were DT DeForest Buckner and DEs Laiatu Latu and Kwity Paye. Buckner, Latu, and Paye were each credited with five pressures and three QB Hits, whereas Latu (5) and Buckner (4) had more QB Hurries, but Paye finished with both of the unit’s two sacks on the day.

Also noteworthy, third-year DT Adetomiwa Adebawore had another strong day in limited snaps, logging two pressures and a timely QB Hit turned incompletion on just 14 pass rush snaps. He has really come into his own over the years, now blossoming into a worthwhile rotational piece across the interior.

The Colts pass rush doesn’t appear like it’s affecting opposing quarterbacks as much as it is due to a few reasons. First and foremost, Indy currently lacks a true barn-burning pass rusher that can be depended on to make a big play; instead, they operate as a pass rush by committee. Second-year Laiatu Latu continues to flash as if he’s breaking out into said role, but as of now, his emergence is marinating.

Furthermore, opposing offenses recognize the talent on that side of the ball and have subsequently responded with heavy play-action as well as quick-hitting pass concepts. This, in turn, essentially stymies any given pass rush and, therefore, serves as one reason why the Colts aren’t dominating opposing offensive lines. It’s an attempt that’s been maintained by five different defenses through as many weeks, with opposing quarterbacks getting the ball out against the Colts at a 2.67-second average — the 4th-quickest time to throw against any defense. They are, however, still producing despite a strategic attempt at halting the rush altogether.

Entering Week 6, the Colts had logged the T-5th most sacks (14) and then added two more against the Arizona Cardinals, as well as their best pressure rate performance of the season thus far. It wouldn’t at all surprise me to see Colts general manager Chris Ballard pick up the phone to bring in additional help ahead of the trade deadline on November 4th, though Indy’s quick deterioration at cornerback convinces me they’d look to raise the floor of that room before attempting to raise the ceiling of this defense’s pass rush.

Source: https://www.stampedeblue.com/analys...ith-season-best-performance-against-cardinals