2010 NFL Predictions: Indianapolis Colts

July 4, 2010

The Indianapolis Colts defense was exposed in Super Bowl XLIV. They were favorites to win it all going into the playoffs but just like they’ve done in previous year’s that they were favored, they disappointed. The only Super Bowl title for Peyton Manning and this offensively prolific Colts squad came in the year that they weren’t expected to win. Super Bowl XLI in 2006 was the year that the Colts defense was non-existent during the regular season, but came to life during the playoffs. Indy knows that they won’t be able to win another championship unless they solidify their defense.

The Colts ranked 18th in overall defense last season as they allowed almost 340 yards per game. New Orleans was actually ranked lower defensively, but like the 2006 colts, played incredibly well over their playoff run. Second year head coach Jim Caldwell understands the importance of a solid defense. Despite being a quarterbacks coach that mostly dealt with the offense, Caldwell has decided to make a Indianapolis a more efficient defensive team. Larry Coyer was brought on board when Caldwell took over as head coach. Coyer has a tremendous amount of defensive experience dating back to 1962. He has made it clear that this defense needs improvement in the form of young talent via the NFL draft.

The Colts made a conscious effort to solidify their defense as they selected defensive players with their first 3 picks in the 2010 NFL draft. Defensive end Jerry Hughes was taken in the first round with the 31st pick overall. He is explosive off of the ball and should make an impact instantly. Linebacker Pat Angerer and cornerback Kevin Thomas were taken in the rounds 2 and 3. They too are solid players that will contribute immediately.

It goes without saying that the Colts offense is a finely tuned machine. Peyton Manning is the best quarterback in the league, and will undoubtedly be a first ballot hall of famer. Manning had perhaps his best season as a pro in 2009 as he passes for 4500 yards and 33 touchdowns. He has the ability to break down defenses, and with the weapons he has around him, can put up huge numbers regardless of how good the opposing defense is.

The wide receiver position is extremely important for the Colts. They require intelligent players that have the ability to make adjustment on the fly. Manning controls the offense and frequently changes plays at the line of scrimmage. This on-the-fly approach requires players that have the ability to adjust at a moments notice. Even though Manning has the ability to make any receiver look like a pro-bowler, the Colts have done a terrific job selecting receivers that fir the mold they are looking for. Reggie Wayne leads the receiver group. He had 1264 yards receiving with 10 touchdowns in 2009. Dallas Clark is quite possible the best tight end in the league. In 2009 he caught 100 passes for 1106 yards and 10 touchdowns. The key for this aerial attack is the secondary receivers that Manning relies on when he’s blitzed or rushed. Pierre garcon and Austin Collie have filled the roll nicely. They had well over 1400 yards and 11 touchdowns between them in 2009, and were clutch in key times.

At running back Joseph Addai has been a work horse. His number don’t compare to the top backs in the league, but he isn’t asked to do as much as this offense relies heavily on the passing game. Addai has 2 young studs backing him up in Mike Hart and Donald Brown. Expect much of the same in 2010 as the offense revolves around Manning’s right arm.

The Colts once again have a very good shot at winning another Super Bowl in 2010. They have been listed as favorites to win the AFC as many NFL handicappers feel that they have improved their defense in the off-season. Peyton Manning is destined to win several Super Bowls before he retires, and 2010 may be the 2nd.

Written by Glenn Andrew · Filed Under NFL

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