If an entire city holds its breath, does everything in that city turn purple?

Will the city ultimately “pass out?” (Which I guess would be manifested in power outages, stalled cares, and the like…)

Will bloggers strain to adequately develop forced metaphors instead of getting right to the point?

Well, we’re going to find out, because the entire city of Indianapolis is about to hold its collective breath while it awaits the results of yet another Bob Sanders visit to see Dr. James Andrews.

The Colts’ D has already been killed by injuries this year and we saw during the team’s Super Bowl run a few years ago just how vital Bob Sanders is to their chances.

Of course, Sanders has only been healthy for a couple of games this year and the Colts have been able to shoot out of the gates with an undefeated record. Don’t be fooled though; this team is not making a deep run in January without its superstar strong safety, especially when you consider the guys they’ve already lost on D.

Peyton Manning is incredible, but probably not that incredible.

So Big MB and the rest of the Circle City waits to exhale.

Update: Uh oh. Looks like Colts fans can exhale, but only so they can begin hyperventilating. According to PFT, Bob Sanders needs elbow surgery and will be out indefinitely.

Sadler’s premium meats are perfect for tailgating on Saturday, for grilling out at home on Sunday, or for when you are hosting a group of friends, or even just the family, on Monday night.

With a variety of delicious choices (beef, pork, ribs, turkey, brisket, and more) and availability at grocery stores throughout the U.S., Sadler’s meats are the tasty, convenient choice when you want to watch the big game and eat well while you’re doing it.

• Check out Sadler’s Monday Night Football Recipe of the Week: Shaved Pork Loin Quesadillas
• Each week, you can also listen to the MSF Monday Night Football Podcast, brought to you by Sadler’s. In this week’s edition, Jerod and Big MB debate whether Miami or Indianapolis will come out on top Monday night and whether or not it’s true that Colts fans are both fair-weather. 
• Follow the link to listen to the MSF Podcast on iTunes, or us the in-page player below to listen while you read.

Colts-Dolphins MNF Preview Podcast presented by Sadler’s

[track title="MSF Podcast: Colts-Dolphins Monday Night Football Preview" artist="Midwest Sports Fans" url="http://www.midwestsportsfans.com/wp-content/uploads/mp3/colts-dolphins-mnf-preview.mp3" alt="Colts-Dolphins Monday Night Football Preview"]

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Monday Night Football Preview

Indianapolis Colts (1-0) at Miami Dolphins (0-1)

• Colts-Dolphins Date: Monday, September 21
• Colts-Dolphins Time: 8:30
• Colts-Dolphins TV Network: ESPN
• Colts-Dolphins Announcers: Mike Tirico, Ron Jaworski, Jon Gruden
• Colts-Dolphins Point Spread: Colts -3.5
• Colts-Dolphins Over-Under: 42
• Colts-Dolphins Pick by JRod: The Colts will be without a proven #2 WR and have no running game to speak of. With the Dolphins coming off of a terrible loss, I think the Parcells-Sparano combo has them ready to play. I think the Dolphins actually win this game outright in front of their home fans on Monday night. They’ll certainly cover 3.5 points. Colts-Dolphins spread pick: Dolphins +3.5.
• StubHub: Colts-Dolphins tickets as low as $42!
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Colts-Dolphins Analysis

Most Colts fans I know are usually optmistic, often blindly so. After last week’s 14-12 triumph over the subpar Jags in Indianapolis, however, many were not.

Even those over-analyzing and looking for pros and cons, down to the season as a whole, relayed guarded optimism at best, significant concerns about injuries and the running game at worst.

The Colts could not convert on short fourth downs, similar to last year’s playoffs when it directly cost them the game at San Diego. Despite the win last Sunday, Indy lost the turnover battle badly and did little on the ground. In addition to the injury to the team’s number two receiver, Anthony Gonzalez, oft-injured Bob Sanders (and his $7 million dollar contract) remains unavailable this week, out indefinitely it seems.

Therefore, I simply am not as sanguine as most others about the next few weeks of Colts football.
 
Though Indianapolis held on versus the Jags, it was far from spectacular. Overall, Peyton Manning was very good, with more than 300 yards in the air.  Like in 2008 when he won his third MVP, he may have to carry this team on his shoulders if they are to achieve their 6th consecutive 12-win season. (And no, the team is not re-signing Marvin Harrison for obvious reasons not needing enumeration.)
 
The next step for the Colts is southward to Miami for a primetime special on Monday night.
 
Indianapolis can take solace in the fact that Miami’s “Wildcat” offense was listless in a 19-7 loss to Atlanta. Their focus is on shoring up the porous offensive line that will have to play better this week if they expect to have any chance of contending Monday night, much less throughout the season. The Dolphins lost three fumbles, threw an interception, and were nearly shutout. A late 4th-quarter touchdown made the game look closer than it actually was.
 
Miami had a plus-17 turnover differential last year. Was the Atlanta game an early sign that perhaps things won’t be the same in 2009?

Chad Pennington, who had just seven turnovers all of last year, had two last Sunday (an interception and a fumble).  Though he was 21 for 29, Pennington threw for just 176 yards, which gives him a pretty weak average of just over six yards per attempt.

Returning to pass protection, the Falcons, not known for being able to get after the quarterback consistently, registered four sacks.
 
The Dolphins only used Pat White for three “Wildcat” plays during week one’s game, and on one of those plays he overthrew Ted Ginn, who was wide open and may have had a touchdown on the play. Using White more would likely allow him to get into a rhythm. With the Wildcat offense being an epic failure in the Atlanta game, however, garnering just four yards, is this fad fading?
 
This all established, Ricky Williams looked very quick and agile on Sunday, dispelling preseason talk from ESPN that he had lost a step. Still, one has to question if it’s the best thing for the Dolphins to keep Ronnie Brown–arguably the Dolphins most explosive offensive player–out for long stretches of the game simply because Williams is running the ball well. The Dolphins’ run defense was also solid, holding Atlanta’s Michael Turner to just 65 yards. Miami was 10th in the league last season at stopping the run.
 
An additional positive to note about the defending AFC East champions is the apparent resurgence of 35 year-old Jason Taylor. After a great preseason, Taylor proved he’s legit in 2009, starting off the regular season the right way with a sack. If he can regain the form that made him a perennial Pro Bowler, then the Dolphins may not have to rely on their offense as much throughout the year…and judging how they looked Week One, that could be a good thing.

Colts-Dolphins Prediction

My semi-confident prediction is that these two teams, who combined for only 21 points in week one, will score more this week. 

But even with that potential for a low score, I think the Colts will find enough to cover the small spread.

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* – Ricky Williams photo credit: Jamie Squire/Getty Images via About.com

The coaching staff has experienced the most turnover, starting with the departure of head coach Tony Dungy, who was replaced by protégé and former assistant coach Jim Caldwell. Several other coaching changes also have been made in addition to Caldwell taking over.

Follow the links to StubHub for great deals on Indianapolis Colts tickets and all 2009 NFL tickets.

Longtime offensive coordinator Tom Moore retired as well, as did offensive line coach Howard Mudd, although both were brought back to the team before the start of training camp as “special advisors.” In addition, defensive coordinator Ron Meeks was replaced by Larry Coyer, who has been assigned the challenge of turning a mundane defense into at least a respectable one. And the most scrutinized position of late is that of new special teams coach Ray Rychlesky, who replaced Russ Purnell.

Other less notable coaching changes also have been made this offseason in an attempt to correct what was viewed by many as a subpar 2008 season despite a sixth straight 12+ win season, as well as a wildcard playoff berth, the first round ejection by 8-8 San Diego that capped the 2008 season.

As to players on the field, the draft brought much needed help at running back and on the defensive line.

The first round brought the Colts RB Donald Brown from Connecticut, who will hopefully boost a subpar running game and provide a sort of “Thunder and Lightning” combination between he and incumbent starter Joseph Addai.

Defensive tackles Fili Moala (Southern Cal) and Terrance Taylor (Michigan) were aquired in the second and fourth rounds, respectively. while receiver Austin Collie (BYU) was added in the fourth as well. Pat McAfee, a punter, was drafted to replace long time booter Hunter Smith who has found a new home in Washington with the Redskins.

Let’s break down each of the three units as the Colts get ready for the regular season, which is now less than two weeks away.

The Offense (The Good)

Of course any team with Peyton Manning will be successful offensively. The good news is that Manning’s knee is at full strength, and we won’t have to wait a hand full of games in the regular season to watch the timing get ironed out, as happened last year.

Joseph Addai has shown signs of returning to his former self in the preseason thus far, and rookie running back Donald Brown continues to impress. The question remains, however, will the offensive line be able to consistently open holes for these two feature backs to run through?

The line is healthier than last year, but there is a glaring issue in the worst possible spot: Peyton’s blind side. OT Tony Ugoh has been replaced as a starter by Charlie Johnson, due to the fact that no one on the coaching staff believes that Ugoh is working his hardest, nor living up to the potential his draft position and salary would suggest. However, Johnson has not been much better thus far, with the Colt’s O-line giving up a horrific three sacks in just the first possession alone of the first preseason game against the Vikings.

The most intriguing position on the Colts offense comes at wide receiver. With the departure of long time #1 receiver Marvin Harrison, the Colts are looking to fill a significant void of experience and production. Reggie Wayne will become the #1 WR (and basically was last year) while 3rd-year man Anthony Gonzalez will take over the #2 spot.

But who will be the #3 WR in the slot?

Dallas Clark, the Colts starting tight end, will no doubt be put into the slot with various personnel groupings. Through two weeks of the preseason, we have seen Pierre Garcon and rookie Austin Collie making great plays and looking to be solid contenders for the slot when the Colts go 3-wide. 

Tom Santi and Jacob Tamme look to have locked up the backup roles to starting TE Dallas Clark.

The Defense (The Bad)

Amidst all of the many questions that surround one of the NFL’s worst third down defenses is, what about Bob? It’s been a while since Bob Sanders has played an entire season, but when he is in the lineup we all know that his presence is invaluable as a stabilizing and inspirational force  in the Colts’ D.

The linebackers looks solid, anchored by Gary Brackett, Phillip Wheeler, and Clint Session, but still seems somewhat weak in certain coverage and run schemes and situation.

The defensive line seems to have improved, adding a couple of 300+ pounders, but the injury to Raheem Brock could make things a little more challenging. The pass rush, anchored by DE’s Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis, seems as strong as ever; but, can the Colts stop the run?

Only time will tell if Larry Coyer can make a major difference replacing Ron Meeks as the leader of what was ranked as one of the worst run defenses in the league last year, as well as one of the worst defenses at getting off of the field on third down.

A lot of questions remain for the Colts on defense, and only time will tell how good the D can be in 2009.

Special Teams (The Ugly)

Where do I start with the special teams?

The Colts can boast that they have one of the most reliable placekickers in the league in Adam Vinatieri. However, the lack of touchbacks, the poor kick coverage, and poor kick returns that are often riddled with turnovers and bad decisions, have plagued the Colts for years and made both the offense and defense have to work much harder to attain victory.

They say that defense wins championships, but I personally believe that special teams plays just as important a role, if not slightly more. There must be change. There must be improvement. Need I say more? Ray Rychlesky, the pressure is on from Day 1.

2009 Outlook

This season’s schedule seems a little soft at first glance, but there could be teams that were weak last season that may be more of a challenge this year. The Colts will host the Jaguars, Seahawks, 49ers, Texans, Patriots, Titans, Broncos, and Jets, and will find themselves traveling to the Dolphins, Cardinals, Titans, Rams, Ravens, Texans, Jaguars, and Bills.

Will the Colts make it to 12 wins for a seventh consecutive season? Las Vegas thinks not. The over-under for the Colts is currently 10. My prediction is somewhere between 11 and 12 wins, but, of course, that’s why they play the games!

There has been a lot of change in Indianapolis this offseason, and the Colts have more competition in the AFC then ever before. Only time will tell if Peyton Manning will win his second Super Bowl, or perhaps a record 4th MVP. He’s Peyton, so anything is possible.

Either way, here’s hoping on another fun ride and successful season for the Colts — one of the NFL’s best and most consistent team over the course of this decade.

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* – Bob Sanders / Marlin Jackson photo credit: NFL Gridiron Gab

Bob Sanders.

The seemingly unthinkable question that many Colts fans and analysts have been asking as we enter the 2009 season has started to spur my own thought process as well: 

Is Bob Sanders’ contribution to the Colts worth the hype and his salary?

In his five years with the Colts, Sanders has only played in more than six regular season games twice (2005 and 2007), and even in their Super Bowl year, he only played four games during the regular season.

Follow these links to StubHub for great deals on Indianapolis Colts tickets and all
NFL 2009 season tickets.

Drafted in 2004, the former Iowa Hawkeyes standout safety drew comparisons to the great Ronnie Lott. But after a lengthy holdout and what would be the first of many injury -iddled seasons, he would only play in six games, starting only four of those six.

His best season by far came in 2007 when he started and played in 15 games, making 96 tackles, 3.5 sacks, and 2 interceptions. The 2005 season was a much similar year in which he took the field in 14 games, netting 91 tackles and 1 interception.

In January of 2008, Sanders inked a 5 year $37.5 million dollar contract with $20 million in guarantees, making him the highest paid safety in the NFL. In fact, he makes over $1 million more than Pittsburgh Steelers safety Troy Polamalu and Ravens safety Ed Reed.

There’s no doubt that when on the field, Sanders’ leadership, charisma, and destructive power strikes fear in the hearts of all who enter his realm.

BUT…

The key word here is WHEN he is on the field.

Even the 2009 season has begun inauspiciously for Sanders and the Colts, as Bob is not likely to even cast a shadow on the field until week 2 or 3.

So the question is: What About Bob? Is he worth the money the Colts dish out to him every season to play six games? Does his presence in those games make up for all of the games he sits on the sideline injured?

I will tell you this, when he is in the game I am a huge Bob Sanders fan. But as much as he is injured it begs question like: is it a workout issue? Is he just injury prone?

The Colts need to make a decision, and one that I’m not even sure where I stand on. $37.5 million will. and should, buy you a lot more than six games a year in this league. Perhaps it’s time for Indy to move on; or, perhaps, after week 2 or 3, Sanders will prove me wrong. I certainly hope so.

What do you think?

Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll.

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* – Bob Sanders flexing photo credit: DU Portfolio Community

* – Bob Sanders thinking photo credit: PSU.edu

At the beginning of the season, this appeared to be a great late season game for the NFL Network, but that was before the Jacksonville Jaguars pissed all over themselves and completely fell apart. It all started with Matt Jones getting busted with his nose in a pile of cocaine, then continued with a rash of injuries to the offensive line, and ultimately has culminated in Jack del Rio laughing and pointing elsewhere to divert attention when someone accuses him of dropping ass (picture, right). It’s okay coach, you’re on a football field. Drop ass all you want. Just don’t mess around with axes anymore.

Anyway, enough about the insignificant and pathetic Jaguars.

Tonight’s game does have huge ramifications for the Indianapolis Colts, and for fantasy football players across the country who are participating in their league’s championship round this week. With fantasy studs like Peyton Manning, Reggie Wayne, Maurice Jones-Drew, Reggie Williams…wait, never mind on that one, Dallas Clark, and Joseph Addai on the field, this game will either get people off to great starts in Week 16 or leave them in a huge hole. And as you look to set your rosters (or if you are just an interested Colts fan), you need to know the latest injury updates regarding Harrison, Addai, Clark, and Sanders.

That’s why we’re here.

Injury Update – WR Marvin Harrison

This one is the easiest to definitively reports. Marvin Harrison will not play for the Indianapolis Colts tonight, as he did not even make the trip to Jacksonville, as reported by ESPN. No one knows exactly what the injury is to Harrison; Tony Dungy says it’s a hamstring, while others claim Harrison hurt his knee against Detroit, while some bozos are still trying to make a story out of comparing Marvin Harrison’s shooting to Plaxico Burress’s shooting. So who knows exactly why Marvin Harrison is out. Everyone rips the Patriots for not being forthcoming about injuries, but most people give Tony Dungy a free pass (although PFT does not, and good for them). I say who the hell cares. I don’t like the Colts, I don’t have Marvin Harrison in fantasy, and I don’t gamble on the NFL. He’s out. Bench him. That’s it.

Injury Update – RB Joseph Addai

Joseph Addai has a shoulder injury as continues to be listed as questionable. According to IndyStar.com, Tony Dungy is optimistic that Addai will be able to suit up, but he will be a game-time decision. If you own Joseph Addai, you’ll just have to monitor this up to kick off. The guy I am playing in the championship round of one league has Addai, so I’m hoping he does not get to feast on Jacksonville’s struggling defense. But even if Addai does play, he has not carried more than 16 times or gone over 70 yards since week 11. That was also the last time he scored a touchdown.

Injury Update – SS Bob Sanders

The perpetually questionable game-time decision Bob Sanders is…listed as questionable and a game-time decision, according to Tony Dungy. As with Joseph Addai, Tony Dungy is optimistic that Sanders will play. Jack Del Rio, Maurice Jones-Drew, Maurice Jones-Drew fantasy owners, and the rest of the Jaguars are hopeful that Bob Sanders will sit this one out. We’ll have to wait and see, as usual.

Injury Update – Indianapolis Colts Roster

Based on the official injury report, listed on NFL.com, it appears as if the Colts team is questionable and a game-time decision to even be on the field tonight against Jacksonville. 12 players are listed as questionable, many of whom are starters and for whom there is no indication that they will not play. Additionally, three other players are listed on the injury report with “Not Injury Related” next to their name.

So…let’s get this straight. They are on the injury report, but it’s not injury related. Yep, makes perfect sense.

This is one reason, other than their silly fans, that I stay away from owning Indianapolis Colts players in fantasy football. Trying to assess their injury situation is like trying to see your reflection in the Wabash River. Impossible.

As far as a prediction for tonight’s game goes, I just don’t see Jacksonville winning it. They will most likely cover whatever the spread is and play the Colts tough, but Peyton Manning is not losing to David Garrard this late in the season with so much on the line. Obviously, having Addai and Sanders would be a boon to the Colts chances, but either way I see them winning a tight game thanks to Peyton’s excellence.

Colts 27 | Jaguars 24

Something tells me you already know I’m not talking about the Browns and Colts. Unfortunately, you would be right. (The matchup of titans is the afternoon game between the Patriots and Steelers.)

When the schedules came out, this late November game between the annual 12-game winning Indianapolis Colts and last year’s 10-win surprise Cleveland Browns looked like it could potentially have playoff (even homefield-type) implications.

Through 12 weeks of the 2008 season, it has become quite apparent that this is not the case. For a while, it looked like both the Browns and the Colts would fail to hold up their ends of the bargain. The Browns have been up-and-down all year; but mostly down, en route to a 4-7 record that leaves them as much for a playoff victory as Curtis Painter has for a Heisman Trophy.

The Colts came out of the gates sputtering, quite contrary to their typical modus operandi, but have gotten back on track lately. Peyton Manning is looking like his old self, injuries are starting to heal, and the rhythm of the Colts offense seems to be closer to normal — especially with Joseph Addai finally showing signs of life.

So who is going to win this game? Well, if you read this site you know that my predictions are always wrong and that I have picked the Browns to win all year long. Really, when viewed that way, the Browns poor season makes total sense

Let’s run through some keys to the game, without putting too much deep thought into this (because I think we all expect the Colts to win, and while I am holding out hope and will be cheering my ass for the Browns, what exactly is there in the last few weeks to make us legitimately feel like this is possible?).

Key #1: Will Bob Sanders play?

The answer is no. Not sure how severe the injury to Bob Sanders is, but from what I read this week it seems like the Colts are just being cautious with their superstar strong safety. And why shouldn’t they? I am sure they have total confidence that they can win without Bob Sanders, and they need to start thinking big picture. Without Bob Sanders to help try to stop Chris Johnson and LenDale White, Thomas Jones, Willie Parker, and the other RBs that will likely be in the playoffs, the Colts will be one-and-done. The Browns have done nothing to instill fear in the Colts that Bob Sanders’ presence is necessary for a win.

Advantage: Browns

Key #2: Where is the game being played?

In Cleveland. The Browns were 7-1 at home last year and nowhere near as hospitable as they have been this year. Collapses against Baltimore, Denver, and Houston have defined this season of errors for the Cleveland Browns. We’re at home again, where the term “home field advantage” means about as much as “steroid testing policy” in the Clemens house.

Advantage: Colts

Key #3: Who is playing Quarterback for Cleveland?

Earlier this week, we discussed nine options, in addition to Derek Anderson, who should be possibilities to start at QB for the Browns in the absence of Brady Quinn. As of 8:36 CT on Saturday night, Charlie Brown had a 20 vote edge over Sloth from Goonies, who was followed closely by Joshua Cribbs, LeBron James, and Zack Morris. Derek Anderson, the actual starter, was only 7th — sitting ignominiously behind Bill Cowher, who is old, mustachioed, and not a QB.

This can’t be a good sign for the Browns. Something tells me that if I had included Peyton Manning in the list of 10, he would have garnered more respect than to be behind a cartoon character, a freak from a Spielberg movie, an NBA player, a student from Bayside High School, and a studio analyst.

Read the article though, you’ll like it. Then come back here. I know you’re on the edge of your seat for my prediction.

Advantage: Colts

Key #4: Who is coaching for Cleveland?

Still Romeo Crennel. And Tony Dungy is still coaching for the Colts. This is not, in any way, shape, or form, advantageous for the Browns.

Now, I’ve heard some people whisper that the Browns will be “out for revenge” because Tony Dungy rested many of his best players in last season’s regular season finale against the Titans. The Titans beat the Colts in Week 17 last year and advanced to the playoffs. Had the Colts won, the Browns would have been in. Is it possible that the Browns players will be rabid with anger and revenge on their minds? Umm…I doubt it. It is still Romeo Crennel and Tony Dungy after all. I don’t think either one is giving a fire-and-brimstone speech in the pregame to stoke any such vendettas. Non story.

Advantage: Colts

Key #5: Who is JRod predicting to win?

Well, you all know that I want the Browns to win. And when I pick them to win, they lose. And logically speaking, if I had to bet $1,000,000 on this game, I would bet it on…the Browns. I know, I’m a fool, but what can I say? If someone put a gun to my head and said I had to place money on one team or the other, I’d rather suffer the gunshot wound than place money against the Browns.

But, in this post, I am predicting the Colts. And I am doing so for one very specific reason: my predictions are always wrong, meaning that if I go on record as saying the Colts will win, then perhaps my true desire will come true and the Browns will pull off the upset.

Advantage: Browns

This leaves the total score at 3-2, with the advantage in favor of the Colts. Excellent. (*diabolical, wicked laugh*) Exactly how I want it.

Colts 35 | Browns 31

Go Browns!

After watching the Colts win their fourth game in a row and six of their last eight, I have had to suffer through yet another day of people telling me about how another team let the Colts off the hook. And while I agree that last night’s game could have gone the other way for a few different reasons, I feel that the Colts are simply being disrespected and overlooked and I can’t seem to figure out why.

I listen to excuse after excuse for why other teams have lost to the Colts. What about how the Colts have won games with superior effort and sheer will on both sides of the ball? Is it because they started the season a little differently than they have over the last few years? Is that why 7-4 looks so bad? Yeah, 9-0 three years in a row sets a pretty high bar. Maybe that’s it. Maybe the expectations are too high. Maybe the Colts have already peaked. Are you kidding? They’re more consistent than JoePa’s bedtime. More efficient than Al Gore’s hybrid bicycle. But credit, no way, not for the blue and white.

So, why?

This has been the most upside-down, prediction-failing, franchise-changing season in recent memory, and I want to say that if someone claims to have seen this coming, I’d like some of whatever they were smokin’. There are more questions than answers in this year’s NFL. The Falcons are competitive? The Titans are 10-1? The Jets, uh-hmm, let me clear my throat here, are looking like a force to be reckoned with in the AFC?

Can I catch my breath?

I understand some of it, sure. But the Colts, the only team other than the Pats who are consistently a team to beat in the AFC, are looking the role again. So why the disrespect? Let me give you a few reasons, not excuses, on why the Colts are still my favorite to represent the AFC in February.

Peyton Manning for MVP

After starting the season on a surgically-repaired knee (that he never made any excuses for), Peyton Manning has returned to form. I know there are others that will garner more attention for the MVP award this season, but no one does more for a team than Big P (Well, maybe Drew Brees). He does have a great receiving corps, so they would be fine with anybody under center, right? Ever watch the Colts offense with Jim Sorgi? Hell no, not even close. And with the league’s worst rushing attack (78.9 yards per game) and a defense that is injury-depleted, the Colts still sit at 7-4. Why? Hmmm…

Ace in the Hole Bob Sanders

When Chuck Norris goes to sleep at night, he checks his closet for Bob Sanders. I’ve seen interviews with his parents, but I still swear he was built in some kind of laboratory. Bob is one of the baddest dudes in the league, but he doesn’t scare offenses from the sidelines. Last year he proved his worth by getting a much deserved Defensive Player of the Year, and this year we see why. Don’t get me wrong, the Colts defensive efforts have been great: they don’t give up, they play their collective ass’s off, and they can still get it done when they have to. But the can-o-spinach with dreadlocks has not yet made his presence felt.

Two years ago the Colts could not win a Super Bowl, would not win a Super Bowl, because they couldn’t stop the run, because they were too small up front, because they were too inexperienced in the secondary. Well, guess what? Sanders comes back to play at the end of the season and the Colts defense goes from ghastly to nasty. Larry Johnson will run all over them. Nope, didn’t happen. The Patriots offense will destroy them. Nah, not this time. So when it comes down to it and #21 is in the lineup, the Colts D can stop anybody.

Tony Dungy

If there is a more calm and collected guy in the NFL, please tell me. This guy wouldn’t sweat in the Sahara. So when the Colts started the season not looking like they typically do, do you think he was worried? Doubt it. I’m not going to talk about how much of a class-act he is, or about the barriers he has broken down for African American coaches, those things get plenty of press. Instead, I give you simply facts: The Colts under Dungy have produced six playoff appearances, five AFC South Titles (in a row), two AFC Championship games, and, oh yeah, a Super Bowl title. They are also the only team in NFL history to win at least 12 games in five consecutive seasons. Lucky? Nah, Dungy.

I know that not everyone believes in the Colts right now, but this year has been exactly what I have been hoping for: a chance for the Colts to show the world that they are not the same underachieving team as years past, but a group of over-achievers that are ready to take on all comers, no matter what the stakes or circumstances. This is just our year, I can feel it, and I’m only giving the heads up now because I don’t want anyone spitting Pabst Blue Ribbon on their Zubaz come February.

You want to talk about how other teams have not when they should have? Well, I want to talk about how the Colts have when they should not have.

[tags]indianapolis colts, peyton manning, tony dungy, bob sanders, nfl[/tags]

This post is from the regular season. Follow the link if you are looking for the Colts-Chargers Wild Card Playoff Game Preview, Prediction, and Injury Reports.

According to the AP, former NFL Defensive Player of the Year Bob Sanders did not make the trip to San Diego for tonight’s Sunday Night Football game between the Indianapolis Colts and the San Diego Chargers.

Bob Sanders did not play last week either for the Colts due to swelling in his knee, and the problem has persisted through this week.

Of course, Bob Sanders being unable to play for the Colts is nothing new. Though Bob Sanders is perhaps one of the ten most indispensable players in the NFL in terms of value to his particular team, he has played in 43 regular season games and missed 32. (Thanks to ProFootballTalk for reporting that interesting nugget.)

Earlier this week, Joe Argabright provided a great prediction and preview of the Colts-Chargers game on NBC tonight. Obviously, it will be much harder for the Colts to defeat the Chargers, who always play them well, without their superstar strong safety.

This post is from the regular season. Follow the link if you are looking for the Colts-Chargers Wild Card Playoff Game Preview, Prediction, and Injury Reports.

(Sunday morning update: Bob Sanders is out for Indianapolis, and did not make the trip to San Diego with the team.)

Over the last few years, few teams have given the Indianapolis Colts as many problems as the San Diego Chargers, who they face this weekend on Sunday Night Football. We all remember when the Chargers ended Indy’s win streak and quest for a perfect season two years ago, as well as two losses at their hands last year. Things should change this year.

The Colts have finally started putting it together of late. The running game has been efficient, and other than dropped passes, the Colts have moved the ball down the field through the air well. Peyton Manning has spread the ball around, and with Marvin Harrison finally showing signs of life, the Colts are running on all cylinders. Joseph Addai posted his first 100 yard rushing game since last year’s loss to the Patriots, and Reggie Wayne and Dallas Clark continue to play well on the offensive side of the ball.

On defense, the Colts have only played marginally well, but have shown an ability to force turnovers when the game is on the line. They continue to give up nearly 140 rushing yards per game, but have held up fairly well in the red zone. This is all without their best defensive player.

Bob Sanders continues to miss games due to complications from off season knee surgery. In his place, Melvin Bullitt has started to make a name for himself; first with his special teams play, but lately as a great addition to the defense. The Colts defensive secondary has the most depth in the league, as they have been forced to play without their two starting cornerbacks and starting free safety for the last few games and are still in the top 10 in defending the pass. Dwight Freeney has helped this by returning to form with 7.0 sacks on the season, and Robert Mathis (5.0 sacks) will benefit from the fact that Freeney is playing better.

On the other side of the field for Sunday night’s game will be a very hungry Chargers team.

Led by Phillip Rivers, the Chargers have had to rely on their passing game more and more as LaDainian Tomlinson has struggled all season, rushing for only 686 yards and 5 touchdowns. Philip Rivers has thrown for 21 touchdowns (the same amount he had on the season last year), and has a 100.9 passer rating. Vincent Jackson has played well as their go-to receiver, while Chris Chambers has struggled to return to form after returning from injury.

Their defense has struggled after the early season loss of Shawne Merriman, who led their defense in sacks last year. Their lack of a pass rush without Merriman has allowed teams to throw for nearly 270 yards per game, worst in the league, and they have been only average against the run, allowing just more than 100 yards per game. This does not bode well for them going against a Colts team who is very good through the air and rushed the ball well with the return of Joseph Addai.

This is a must win game for the Chargers who are looking to turn their season around after a disappointing start to the year. They stand at 4-6 and second in their division. A win against the Colts would give them a lot of confidence going forward. The Colts need this game as well. The Titans are surprisingly running away with this division, and the Colts at 6-4 sit in the Wildcard spot right now. Expect both teams to play hard for this win, as both still have expectations for playing in January.

My Sunday Night Football prediction: Tomlinson’s struggles on the ground are not because of any defenses he has played and will continue Sunday night. The Colts ability to force turnovers will keep the Chargers from putting six on the board more than once. Peyton Manning will have all day to throw and will have one of the biggest games of the year against a team the Colts are hungry to exact revenge on, even if it means hitting them while they’re down.

Colts 31, Chargers 16

[tags]san diego chargers, indianapolis colts, sunday night football, nfl[/tags]

The latest injury problem for the Colts appears to be the knee of WR Reggie Wayne. There were conflicting reports on whether Reggie Wayne participated in practice on Thursday. One newspaper said he did practice, while the Colts’ official website listed Wayne as not having participated. Tony Dungy appears to think that Reggie Wayne will be okay to play on Sunday, but this appears to be one those game time decisions that can frustrate the hell out of fantasy owners. We’ll update you with more information on Reggie Wayne as it becomes available.

On an even more sour note for Colts fans, CB Marlin Jackson is out for the season. He hurt his right knee in Wednesday’s practice and was placed on injured reserve. The loss of Marlin Jackson is significant for the Colts, as he has been a defensive stalwart for the team ever since arriving from Michigan. According to NFL.com, the injury to Marlin Jackson was a torn ACL and a damaged meniscus that occurred during a no-pad, non-contact drill. Tim Jennings will likely serve as Marlin Jackson’s replacement.

The frustrating aspect of this for the Colts, in addition to the general frustration at yet another significant injury, is that it comes at a time when they appeared to finally be getting somewhat healthy, especially in the defensive secondary.

Bob Sanders and Kelvin Hayden both should be in the lineup on Sunday versus the Patriots. Hayden did not practice on Thursday, but Tony Dungy seems to think he’ll be fine. Bob Sanders was a full participant in Thursday’s practice.

Running back Joseph Addai appears poised to split carries with Dominic Rhodes this weekend, as Addai has somewhat recovered from his hamstring injury. Joseph Addai does not appear to be 100% healthy yet, but with Dominic Rhodes being slightly hobbled by a knee tweak of his own, it is a huge bonus for the Colts to have Addai back in the fold. Joseph Addai did participate fully in practice on Thursday.

For the latest news on the Colts prodigious injury list, stay tuned to our Indianapolis Colts news page. The game on Sunday is pretty much a must-win for the Colts, and they already seem a step slow and out of rhythm as a team. They need every healthy body they can get.

[tags]indianapolis colts, nfl, nfl injuries[/tags]

The Indianapolis Colts’ offensive line has been riddled with injuries, and they have been forced to start their backups at multiple positions in all four of their games this season. With Jeff Saturday going down for the first two games of the season, and Tony Ugoh missing games as well, the Colts have had to dig deep and try to get by with minimal experience up front. This has not been good to the passing or the running game. Joseph Addai has been held to just 213 yards and 4 touchdowns on the year, and Peyton Manning has been limited to 1,031 yards and 5 touchdowns. Manning has been sacked 7 times, and pressured or hit countless other times throughout the year.

This is all after an offseason where, after knee surgery only a few weeks before the year, Peyton Manning did not take any snaps until right before the season started. He has returned to form fairly quickly, and is starting to look like he has found his comfort zone again. But with a lack of protection, he is not the quarterback that he has been the past few seasons. After getting Marvin Harrison back, the Colts receiving corps is one of the league’s best. Joseph Addai adds to that potency as a great receiver out of the backfield, so Manning has no shortage of weapons at his disposal. But an injury to Dallas Clark and an inexperienced offensive line have not allowed Peyton Manning or the Indianapolis Colts the success they would like to have.

On the defensive side of the ball, the Colts’ offseason has not been good to them. Losing young backup Quinn Pitcock to early retirement, and being forced to release starter Ed Johnson due to behavioral issues off the field, the Colts are looking for answers up front. Despite the fact that Dwight Freeney has returned, and Robert Mathis is looking healthy, the Colts have lacked the push up the middle that is crucial to rushing the passer and stopping the run. With Bob Sanders out yet again, the Colts run defense is in shambles, as opponents have put up 754 yards on the ground in just four games, 29th in the NFL. Instead of outscoring opponents in the first half and forcing opponents to throw in the second half, the Colts have been forced to defend the run all game. This has kept the Colts’ offense off the field, with the Colts first four opponents having the ball for an average of ten minutes longer than them in the first four games. Not the recipe for success.

But despite all this, the Colts have managed to maintain a .500 record, and second place in what should turn out to be a highly contested AFC South. Jacksonville has struggled, and Houston is still a few years from contending, but what was supposed to be the toughest division in football before the season started has turned out to be the most unpredictable. Tennessee barely made the playoffs last year, and has posted a perfect 5-0 record despite losing their starting quarterback Vince Young to injury. Jacksonville was supposed to be competing for a Super Bowl this year, but has struggled to get by and sits at 2-3. Houston was supposed to be much improved, with a healthy Matt Schaub and Andre Johnson, but sits at 0-4, and cannot figure out how to translate talent into victories.

If the Indianapolis Colts plan on competing for another Super Bowl title, they will have to figure out a way to stay healthy, and may need to make some moves to fortify their offensive and defensive lines. Just ask John Madden: everything starts at the line of scrimmage, and if you don’t control that, you don’t control your destiny.

[tags]indianapolis colts, peyton manning, AFC South, NFL, football[/tags]