Indianapolis Colts: Game-by-Game Predictions

Jan 18, 2015; Foxborough, MA, USA; Indianapolis Colts quarterback Andrew Luck (12) throws a pass against New England Patriots defensive end

(50) during the first quarter in the AFC Championship Game at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Greg M. Cooper-USA TODAY Sports

Indianapolis Colts Predictions for Weeks 5 – 8

The Texans have an amazing defense led by J.J. Watt. Luckily for the Colts J.J. is not under center taking snaps. The Texans revolving door at quarterback has been their Achilles heel. They just do not have the passing game to match up with the Colts and Arian Foster will need to be 100% healthy to make an impact against Indy. Watt will make a difference and could make this game as exciting, but I think the Colts win a tough division game 28-24 (5-0).

Here we go… This is the game of the year. Not just for Indianapolis, but for New England as well. This is a revenge game for both teams. For the Colts, they are tired of being the Patriots’ whipping boys and know that if they want to get to the Super Bowl, they must usurp the defending Super Bowl champions.

The Patriots want payback for an offseason fueled by controversy, scandal and speculation, all stemming from Deflategate. They blame the Colts for the distraction and want revenge. Tom Brady is angry, call it s hunch, but I believe that this year the Colts finally get over the hump against New England.

The Patriots will have to generate enough pressure to disrupt Luck’s timing. Their secondary is not what it was a year ago and Luck has options to distribute the ball.

The Colts may have to find an answer for Gronkowski, but the Colts are hungry. Andrew Luck wants to beat the Patriots he is 0-5 against them in 3 seasons. This time, the Colts win in a shootout 38-35 (6-0).

Former Purdue quarterback, Drew Brees returns to Indiana to face the Colts. Much has changed since their last match up in 2011, but some Colts remember the drubbing they took at the hands of the Saints back then. Brees no longer has Jimmy Graham to haul in touchdowns and their defense is being retooled. The Saints will make a game of it with Mark Ingram carrying the rock, but The Colts will keep their winning streak alive 24-21 (7-0).

The Panthers lost up-and-coming wide receiver Kelvin Benjamin for the season. Looking at their roster Cam Newton will be hard pressed to produce enough offensively to beat the Indianapolis Colts. However, their defense – led by linebacker Luke Kuechly – will be tough to beat at home and will keep the game clsoe. Colts win a close one 20-17 and remain perfect for the first half of the season at 8-0.

Next: The Rough Patch?