Indianapolis Colts: Top 3 Performances From First Victory

The Indianapolis Colts suffered two tough losses against two playoff teams in their first two games by a total of only 10 points. They were probably the most impressive 0-2 team heading into Sunday.

Of course, playing the Jacksonville Jaguars in Week 3 helped cure their losing ways, and the Colts certainly brought their A-game. Stomping the Jags 44-17 was impressive, especially since it was 30-0 heading into halftime before they took their foot off the gas pedal and the Jags inserted rookie QB Blake Bortles just to try and score some points. It was great all-around performance from the Colts, but many individuals stood out in this one.

That said, who were the top three contributors to their efforts Sunday?

3. RBs Trent Richardson–Ahmad Bradshaw:

It’s been rough for Richardson since being traded for a first-round pick early last season, but he finally had a good game against the Jags. He ran for 57 yards on 14 carries and had three catches for 23 yards. He combined with Bradshaw, who’s clearly been the more productive back in Indy during the duo’s time there. Bradshaw rushed for 65 yards on only nine carries, and also added two receptions for 18 yards and his third receiving touchdown in two games.

The two combined for well over 100 yards on this day and kept the offense balanced. Not only was it key to get the running game going for their confidence, but for the offensive line’s as well, as it’s struggled the past couple seasons.

2. LB D’Qwell Jackson:

Jackson has essentially been a godsend for the Colts. For years, they’ve lacked a veteran presence in their linebacking corps, but he’s brought that since his arrival from Cleveland. The nine-year LB’s contributions were in full effect Sunday as he led his defense to a first-half shutout. Jackson contributed 10 tackles, one sack and a forced fumble in this one. With Robert Mathis out, Jackson is the clear leader of this defensive unit, and he’ll have to keep up that level of play as the season progresses.

1. QB Andrew Luck:

As if it was any question. In most games, Luck tops this type of list for the Colts and he did once again on Sunday. He was nearly flawless as he racked up 370 yards on 31-of-39 pass attempts while throwing for four touchdowns and no picks. This is his football team, and when he’s as on point as he was against the Jags, the Colts will always be tough to beat, as they were in their first two losses to the Denver Broncos and Philadelphia Eagles.

Brian Neal is a columnist for InkOnIndy.com. Follow him on Twitter @brianneal23.