Colts' Defense vs Packers' Offense

No one can accuse the Colts of peaking too soon this year. This has been painfully obvious as the Colts defense has struggled from game to game to find some semblance of consistency. Against the Jets, the unit as a whole played aggressive and sealed the victory in the waning minutes of the fourth quarter. Two interceptions in the first half kept the Jets from scoring and, but for a lucky bounce, he defense could have easily had two more in the second. They were very effective in third down situations, allowing the Jets to convert only 1 of 9 third downs. In addition, the Jets most potent weapon, Curtis Martin was held in relative check. These are good signs, signs that the team can respond and make plays in critical situations.

Now the bad news. The Colts failed to sack Jets QB Vinny Testaverde and allowed him to throw with relative comfort all game long. This allowed WR Wayne Chrebet to run amok through the Colt secondary and amass 140 yards receiving on just 8 catches. The Colts cannot afford to give Packer QB Brett Favre the time that Testaverde enjoyed last week. WR Antonio Freeman could rack up Chrebet-like numbers if we don't apply pressure. The Packers rank 15th of 30 teams in the NFL on offense. The Colts rank 21st in the league on defense, giving up 122 yards on the ground and over 200 through the air. 

This may sound like a broken record, but the key to the game for the Colts will be stopping the run. Starting RB Dorsey Levens will not play, leaving the stage set for another backup running back, in this case Ahman Green, to make his name by running all over the Colts D. If they can stuff Curtis Martin, there is absolutely NO reason they can't stop Green. Even if they accomplish this, challenging Brett Favre to beat us is a risky strategy at best. Perhaps this really is the week when the Colt defense proves it can play consistently from week to week. I hope they do, but until I see it on the field, the advantage lies squarely with the Pack.

Advantage: Packers

Next Opponent
Green Bay Packers
11/19/2000

when: 1:00
where: Lambeau Field
TV: FOX

Team Record
7-3

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