Not as close as it seemed, as the Colts get back on the win column
MVP of the Game: Jonathan Taylor
29 carries for 218 yards and three touchdowns on the ground, Taylor made sure not to drop the ball before hitting the endzone this time, and he was clearly out for revenge against a Titans’ run defense that was not interested at all in tackling. This was the sort of performance the Colts need from Taylor. That explosiveness after the cut to get the big run was not seen much this season, so hopefully he can finish the year on a high note, and carry that into next season.
Dud of the Game: Vacant / Prevent defense
There are three things I will never understand in this world, no matter how hard I try: Why art is worth so much money, why my country refuses to adopt daylight savings time, and why NFL teams continue using prevent defense. You are facing an offense led by Mason Rudolph, and you were constantly in his face all game long, I don’t get why they stopped doing what was working, and started to rush 3 or 4 players and gifted the Titans the short passing plays. It also did not work that the Colts’ defensive players were also allergic to tackling after going up by 31, but the team still won so this will not matter at all in the end.
Best Play of the Game: Josh Downs’ receiving touchdown / JT’s 70-yard touchdown run
This sequence is what sealed the deal for the Colts, first of all the touchdown pass to Downs to finish off the first half, followed right after by the first play touchdown run by JT to put the Colts up 31-7. This was a much needed explosion for the offense.
Worst Play of the Game: Three defensive drives late in the game
23 points allowed in three consecutive drives to a Titans’ offense that was getting essentially shutout after a first quarter touchdown pass. The scheming, the lack of effort, the missed tackles, the blown coverages… the Colts’ defense just seemed to decide the game was over and gave zero effort.
Best position group: Offensive line
The Colts amassed over 300 rushing yards on the ground, and four touchdowns. That does not happen if not for an impeccable day for the offensive line. This Titans’ d-line is not nearly as talented as the years prior, but it was still an overall amazing day for the unit.
Unsung hero: Jaylon Carlies
I really like how Carlies plays, and I would love for him to get the most snaps possible to finish off the year, even more so considering Speed is set to become a free agent after this season (breaking up the podcast duo is a must this offseason). I will monitor Carlies’ end of the season with great interest.
Rookie of the Week: AD Mitchell / Jaylon Carlies
A beautiful 36-yard catch over the shoulder is good enough for Mitchell to take home the ROTW award for the Colts. Returner Anthony Gould had another solid day at the office, but Mitchell’s catch had a much bigger impact on the game as it happened on 3rd down, and when the Colts really needed a spark.