Vontae Davis’ return bolsters Colts’ chances

One of the Colts’ best playmakers is back on defense for Monday night’s game and he could change the entire flow of the game.

Vontae Davis returns after three quarters of inactivity against the Pittsburgh Steelers from an apparent knee injury. Davis has practiced all week with no limitations on his knee and looked good in team drills. Assuming he’s back in full health for Monday’s game, he could be a major game changer for Indianapolis.

On the opposite side of the ball from Davis sits rookie sensation Odell Beckham Jr., New York’s first round raft pick. He has the ability to find himself open on short routes and make plays in the intermediate pass plays. He’s also lethal in the red zone; he’s corralled three touchdowns in just three healthy games this season. After Victor Cruz sustained a knee injury that ended his season, Beckham Jr. will be expected to step his game to make up for the loss of the star wideout. So far, Beckham Jr. has shown his ability as a reliable target and is due for a monster breakout game at some point this season.

However, with Vontae Davis back covering the opposing team’s No. 1 wideout, you can bet that it’s not going to be this week.

Vontae Davis has established himself as one of the best corners in the NFL. He doesn’t allow touchdowns and can be one of the best corners on the field when he’s healthy. Against an emerging young receiver, Davis should be able to hold stout coverage all day. Beckham Jr. is very good, but he still has strides to make in the passing game before he can make catches over one of the elite corners in the NFL. Davis is best in intermediate coverage, where Beckham Jr. also thrives at.

This should be one of the most interesting matchups to watch in Monday’s game. Everyone wants Beckham Jr. to succeed for a New York offense in need of a playmaker. However, Davis will be tasked with holding his yards down and playing strong in the red zone.