Colts Defeat Jaguars 44-17; Improve to 1-2

Sep 21, 2014; Jacksonville, FL, USA; Indianapolis Colts running back

(34) carries for a first down against the Jacksonville Jaguars during the first quarter at EverBank Field. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports

The Indianapolis Colts finally won their first game of the season this afternoon against the Jacksonville Jaguars, and they did so in dominant fashion. Indianapolis got off to a fast start and never slowed down, coasting to a 44-17 win over their division rivals. Andrew Luck and the Colts’ offense was phenomenal, and offensive coordinator Pep Hamilton finally loosened up and allowed them to play their game.

This was a much needed win for the Colts after a very disappointing first two weeks of the season. They were expected to come up with a win, but they definitely dominated the game more than most were expecting. Defensively, the Colts were able to shut down the Jaguars’ offense until later on in the second half, and they forced a pair of interceptions as well.

Luck had a huge game to lead the way for the Colts, throwing for 370 yards and four touchdowns on the afternoon. He didn’t turn the football over, and he completed 31 of his 39 passing attempts. Both Ahmad Bradshaw and Trent Richardson had nice games on the ground once again for the Colts, with 65 and 57 yards respectively. T.Y. Hilton caught five passes for 80 yards before leaving the game with injury, while Reggie Wayne caught four for 62 yards.

Chad Henne started the game at quarterback, but was replaced by rookie Blake Bortles to start the second half after throwing for just 33 yards. Bortles came into the game and threw for 223 yards and two touchdown, but also showed some rookie mistakes and turned the football over twice. Denard Robinson led the Jaguars in rushing on the afternoon, picking up 33 yards on eight carries. Allen Robinson came through with seven catches for 79 yards, while Allen Hurns made a huge play catching one pass for 63 yards and a touchdown.

Needless to say, the Colts were very happy with their performance from the beginning of the game to the end. Their defense came through with some nice plays, and the offense finally looked like the powerful unit that was expected before the season. Hopefully they are able to keep that type of play up moving forward.

Indianapolis will host the Tennessee Titans next Sunday as they look to even up their record.