Colts show promise despite 1-2 start
By JUSTIN BYERS
ISL Contributor
INDIANAPOLIS –After a tumultuous 2017 campaign, expectations for this year’s Indianapolis Colts were not high. The organization is currently experiencing a big transition. This off-season brought several changes to the Colts, both on and off the field. The emergence of a new coaching staff coupled with a roster sprinkled with youth deemed this Colts season to be of reestablishing a foundation. However, through the first three weeks of the season, it has been evident that the 2018 Colts have surpassed all expectations. Even though the Colts stand at 1-2 after three weeks, there are several positives that can be taken away. Due to the Colts taking NFL enthusiasts by surprise, I list several positive takeaways from the first few weeks of this season.
1. Andrew Luck has not lost a step. Coming into this season, many were worried about whether former first overall pick of the 2012 NFL Draft would return to form after missing the entire 2017 season due to shoulder surgery. However, through the first three weeks, Luck has silenced any doubters he may have had. Previously known for his intellect as a quarterback, it is evident that Luck has been able to translate that ability to his physical performance on the field. Through three games, Luck has completed 85 of 124 passes which has led to a 68.5% completion rate. An indication that Luck’s ability to be accurate with the football has not wavered. Luck’s 662 pass yards and five touchdowns are more evidence that Luck is back on track. This is encouraging for Colts media and fans alike. Luck has also faced legitimate defenses through the first three games which leads to believe that the Colts and their quarterback can compete with any team in the league. The Bengals, Redskins, and Eagles proved to be tough opponents for Luck and the Colts, therefore the remainder of teams on the schedule should not take Luck lightly.
2. Colts defense can step up to the plate: There were many question marks coming into this season in regards to the Colts defense and their strategy. This off-season proved to be one where the defense underwent almost a complete turnover of personnel. General Manager Chris Ballard made it evident in this year’s draft that defense would be a focus. With improving the defense through the draft comes a wealth of youth and inexperience. However, the Colts have shown that they do not intend to fall under this stereotype. Young talent such as Kenny Moore III, Malik Hooker, and Darius Leonard give the Colts and their fans something to look forward to for the remainder of the season. These players will only improve with time. After the release of playmakers like Jonathan Hankins and John Simon, Colts enthusiasts were left scratching their heads. However, the organization has displayed that their process should be trusted and that the ceiling has not been reached.
3. Frank Reich is off to a good start. An incident which caused concern heading into this season was the circus that ensued in the Colts’ attempt to hire a new head coach. After the Eagles defeated the Patriots in the Super Bowl, many football fans believed that Patriots offensive coordinator, Josh Daniels would be next in line to coach the Indianapolis Colts. For quite some time, it seemed that idea would come to fruition. Josh Daniels did indeed intend to take the position of Colts head coach. However, after a change of heart Josh Daniels rescinded on his word and returned to Tom Brady and the Patriots. This sent Jim Irsay and Chris Ballard scrambling to find a replacement. This led to Frank Reich. Through the first three weeks of this season, it can be said that “everything happens for a reason.” Frank Reich who played quarterback in the NFL from 1985-1998 had become known as an offensive savant, most recently for being the offensive coordinator who led the Eagles offense to a Super Bowl win over the Patriots and being instrumental in the growth of Eagles quarterback Carson Wentz. Frank Reich, who calls the offensive plays for the Colts, has showcased his football IQ and ability to put player’s in the best position to succeed. Reich has been able to keep a team riddle with youth in games with opponents who were projected to win convincingly. Reich’s ability to adhere to Luck’s strengths has also paid dividends to the Colts success. It is evident that the team respects Reich and that they possess the passion to go out and compete for him on Sunday’s. For an organization that has a lot of new faces this could prove more beneficial than any offensive or defensive play call. Having Reich as head coach of the Indianapolis Colts is a move fans and players will be satisfied with for years to come.
Even though we are only through the first three games of a long, arduous NFL season, there are several key things we can take-a-way from the Colts. There are many things to be excited about and also things that are in need of improvement. However, with the pieces that are in place progress has already been shown. Things are looking up for the 2018 Indianapolis. Colts.
