Colts vs Jets: Keys to the Game Preview
By Dave McKee
Sep 13, 2015; Orchard Park, NY, USA; Buffalo Bills outside linebacker Nigel Bradham (53) tries to tackle Indianapolis Colts running back Frank Gore (23) as he runs the ball during the first half at Ralph Wilson Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-USA TODAY Sports
Key Matchups for the Colts against the Jets
T.Y. Hilton:
The status of T.Y. Hilton will be pivotal to the Colts passing attack. If he is on the field he is likely to draw Darrelle Revis. Hilton is Luck’s security blanket and the only receiver who gained any separation in week one. Hilton had seven catches for 88 yards against Buffalo – six in the first half – before leaving the game with a bruised knee. Even if he is not 100%, at the least he can become a decoy for Indianapolis to keep the Jets defense honest and Revis occupied.
Andre Johnson:
Andre Johnson will need to step up whether Hilton is on the field or not if the Colts want to have success through the air. Johnson’s ho-hum performance in week one was surprising considering the amount of hype that surrounded his signing in the offseason. Johnson looked slow and inconsistent last week catching only four of his 10 targets for 24 yards. Johnson will need to gain separation on which ever corner is covering him and use his body and catch radius to give Luck a better target.
The Colts were forced to abandon the run against Buffalo once they got behind early. This was exacerbated by team’s choice to throw on 16 of their first 19 plays. Gore only had eight carries for 31 yards. He had two catches for zero yards out of the backfield. However, Luck did overthrow a screen pass intended for Gore that could have gone for some serious chunk yards. Gore will need to get going early. Facing the interior defense of New York, look for the Colts to try and gain the advantage on the edge where they have been most successful throughout the preseason and in week one.
Jalil Brown:
Jalil Brown made a name for himself in training camp as a ball hawk. He had five interceptions in training camp and added another two in the preseason. The 27-year old has bounced around the league from Kansas City to Indianapolis to Miami and back to Indianapolis. Now he has a chance to start and needs to make the most of this opportunity against Eric Decker. ESPN’s Mike Wells reported Vontae Davis will be shadowing Brandon Marshall. If the Colts can dial up the pressure on Fitzpatrick, it would not be surprising if he snags an errant pass against the Jets.
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