Indianapolis Colts: Andrew Luck Solid In Preseason Debut

It took two weeks longer than expected, but Indianapolis Colts‘ star quarterback Andrew Luck finally made his preseason debut. Luck looked good in his first on-field action since Week 9 of the 2015 season.

The Indianapolis Colts faced off against the Baltimore Ravens for each team’s second preseason game. In the end, the Colts lost the game 19-18.

Preseason is not an accurate indicator for regular season success. However, it is still important to perform well. Saturday evening, Luck proved he has recovered from his lacerated kidney and is ready to be a force in 2016.

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Luck only played in two offensive possessions and killed most of the clock in the first half. However, long possessions are very good. A long series means the Colts’ offense is getting first downs and staying the field, which are things they struggled with in 2015.

Luck completed all eight of his passes for 71 passing yards. He led the Colts’ into the red zone on both of his offensive possessions. Unfortunately, the Colts did not score touchdowns on those possession due to penalties and a turnover.

Luck showed very good awareness in the pocket and got out of trouble when he needed to. Outside of the pocket, he did a very good job protecting himself from big hits.

Specifically, a first quarter scramble showed Luck was committed to protecting himself. After escaping the pocket, Luck earned nine yards and avoided a big hit by sliding.

Overall, then Colts’ coaching staff was probably pleased with Luck’s performance against the Ravens. He played very well and kept himself away from big hits.

Meanwhile, Luck liked his performance, but he was not satisfied with it. In an in-game interview on NFL Network, Luck said he wanted to finished his two possessions with touchdowns.

Although he was tough on himself, one has to appreciate his perfectionist mentality in a meaningless preseason game.

So far, Luck has looked good in training camp and preseason practices. However, it is more more important to see him translate those good practice results into solid game day performances.

As a side note, the Colts’ offensive line kept pressure away from Luck most of the time. That is very encouraging to see because Luck’s effectiveness will be dependent on the offensive line’s success.

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The Indianapolis Colts’ next preseason game against the Philadelphia Eagles on August 27 will probably be Luck’s final warmup for the 2016 season. Hopefully, he rides the momentum from this game into that game and ultimately, into the regular season.