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Indianapolis Colts: Jim Irsay Concerned About Offensive Line

By Garrett Hagan

Sep 13, 2015; Orchard Park, NY, USA; Indianapolis Colts guard Lance Louis (60) tackle Anthony Castonzo (74) and tight end Dwayne Allen (83) during the game against the Buffalo Bills at Ralph Wilson Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Hoffman-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 13, 2015; Orchard Park, NY, USA; Indianapolis Colts guard Lance Louis (60) tackle Anthony Castonzo (74) and tight end Dwayne Allen (83) during the game against the Buffalo Bills at Ralph Wilson Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Hoffman-USA TODAY Sports /
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The Indianapolis Colts spent the entire offseason focusing on improving their offensive line. Owner Jim Irsay is no fan of the unit’s performance throughout the preseason, however.

A little over three months ago, the Indianapolis Colts used their 18th overall selection in the draft to take center Ryan Kelly out of Alabama.

Kelly, a first-team All-American and winner of the 2015 Rimington Trophy given to the nation’s top center, was viewed as one of the most valuable pieces to the offensive line.

Through four exhibition games, the rookie has done his part. The others? Not so much…

There was hope for the starting unit after the Colts’ second preseason game against the Baltimore Ravens. Quarterback Andrew Luck had time to make his throws and finished the game going 8-for-8 with 71 yards passing. Don’t be fooled, as the Ravens were without a large portion of their defensive unit that game.

The real wake up call came the very next week against the Philadelphia Eagles. Luck was expected to play for longer than he did, but had to be taken out due to constantly being hit or sacked with virtually no time in the pocket.

On Tuesday evening, Irsay sounded off on the Philadelphia game, per Mike Wells of ESPN.com.

"“The Eagle game was concerning, and until we prove otherwise, we’re going to be tested every play,” Irsay said. “We protect Andrew, good things are going to happen.”"

Since being drafted by the Colts in 2012, Luck has never had a competent offensive line to assist him in games. He has quickly become one of the most-hit quarterbacks in the NFL over his four-year career. The Colts brought in ex-Miami Dolphins head coach Joe Philbin to be the offensive line coach.

“I’m concerned like any fan out there,” Irsay said. “Everyone has to get their game at a high level…. But I love the additions that we’ve added on the offensive line, and right now I really expect, with Philbin in here, much better protection, and I look for Andrew to have a great season.”

Indianapolis Colts
Jul 28, 2016; Anderson, IN, USA; Indianapolis Colts assistant head coach and offensive live coach Joe Philbin gets after his line during the Indianapolis Colts NFL training camp at Anderson University. Mandatory Credit: Mykal McEldowney/Indy Star via USA TODAY NETWORK /

It is very simple. If the offensive line does its due diligence, look for Luck to have another big year similar to that of 2014.

Next: Indianapolis Colts Vs. Detroit Lions Week 1 Preview

Even though it’s just preseason, it still isn’t a good look for an offensive line that has gained a few quality players this offseason.

The Indianapolis Colts begin their 2016 NFL season at Lucas Oil Stadium against the Detroit Lions Sunday, Sep. 11 at 4:25 p.m. ET.

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