Colts: Three Talking Points before MNF

Last Sunday, the Indianapolis Colts started their season with a 27-14 loss in Buffalo to Rex Ryan and the Bills.

Coach Chuck Pagano wasn’t happy. Frank Gore wasn’t happy. The defense wasn’t happy.

Now looking at going 0-2 for the second straight year, the Colts will attempt to turn it around tonight against Rex Ryan’s former team the New York Jets.

1) The Offense –

The Colts responded to last season’s start by reaching the AFC Championship game, but this is a different year and fans from all over are expecting a Super Bowl run out of Andrew Luck and his comrades.

Right now, it looks as if Luck will be without his main target T.Y. Hilton heading into Lucas Oil Stadium this evening, but the aerial attack lacked balance and could see Indy giving more reps to Frank Gore tonight as he seeks to prove himself for permanent place in the Colts first line.

Simply put, the offense should reboot and get back to the basics.

Sep 13, 2015; Orchard Park, NY, USA; Buffalo Bills running back LeSean McCoy (25) runs the ball and jumps to avoid a tackle by Indianapolis Colts strong safety Mike Adams (29) during the second half at Ralph Wilson Stadium. Bills beat the Colts 27 to 14. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-USA TODAY Sports

2) The Defense –

On Sunday, the Colts surrendered 27 points total, 17 in the first half with no score on their side.

Indy ran out of Buffalo with their tail between their legs, bullied by running backs Karlos Williams and Boobie Dixon and outplayed in the first half by QB Tyrod Taylor, who was 14 for 19 with a 195 yards and a touchdown on his Bills debut.

Things need to change and quickly. The defensive line struggled with both the backs and the scrambling Taylor, and field conditions made things an interesting scene for the visitors. However, the Jets come in with a weak offense – Ryan Fitzpatrick under center, Chris Ivory their best option as a back, and aside from Brandon Marshall and Eric Decker no other real targets through the air.

Tonight will both be about how Luck responds to a rough first half, but as important, whether or not the line will hold up with the injuries to the secondary.

Sep 13, 2015; Orchard Park, NY, USA; Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Donte Moncrief (10) scores a touchdown during the second half against the Buffalo Bills at Ralph Wilson Stadium. Bills beat the Colts 27-14. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Hoffman-USA TODAY Sports

3) Special Teams –

Aside from the ever-reliable Pat McAfee, Indianapolis’s special teams were a wreck. Adam Vinatieri doesn’t miss often, so his 0-1 FGA last week may be dismissed, but between the teams fielding punts and kicks alone there were plenty of mistakes, too many.

The coaching staff may make a couple of changes even if minor, but things need to improve ahead of Week 2.

Overall, the Colts bounce back and fans and players alike expect it tonight. Luck and the offense will get better no doubt, but the defense will be in the spotlight as Indianapolis tries to avoid another 0-2 start.

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