Colts' Defense vs Jets' Offense

It's been a roller coaster season thus far for the Colts' defense. Unfortunately, most of the ride has been downhill. The Colts' have been hurt by injuries in key areas (defensive line and linebacker), but these cannot be excuses for the poor play displayed by the rest of the team. The Colts have a good crop of athletes, but they aren't playing as a cohesive unit. Undisciplined is the best word to describe them so far. They fail to stay in their running lanes, they overpursue, allowing huge gains off screen and draw plays, they give huge cushions in coverage even in blitzing and short yardage situations. 

The Jets have often sputtered this season until late in games. And despite this trend, they have cobbled together a record equal to the Colts. QB Vinny Testaverde and WR Wayne Chrebet cannot be counted on each week to bring the team back. They will seek consistency on offense. The Jets will look to establish Curtis Martin and dominate the ground game, thus keeping the Colts' potent offense off the field. Surprisingly, the Jets are averaging less than 100 yards per game (95.6) on the ground. Against the Colts, though, it would not be surprising to see Martin to break out and dominate the way that he can. 

Home field could save the Colts in this one. While I feel the Colts are outmatched, judging by the past performance of the team, the Colt defense tends to play better than normal in two situations: 1) against tougher opponents and 2) at home. Since both these apply, the Colts have a shot .

Advantage: Jets

Next Opponent
New York Jets
11/12/2000

when: 8:30
where: RCA Dome
TV: ESPN

Team Record
6-3

New Feature!
Weekly Picks

Colts Roster

Game Prediction

Archive:

1999 Season
Issue #1
Issue #2
Issue #3
Issue #4
Issue #5

2000 Season
Issue #6
Issue #7
Issue #8
Issue #9
Issue #10
Issue #11
Issue #12
Issue #13
Issue #14