The black smoke of Jonathan Taylor still looms above Lucas Oil Stadium as the Colts prepare for their week one match-up against the Jacksonville Jaguars, otherwise known as horseshoe kryptonite. Indianapolis has not won a season opener since 2013, and based on expectations for the Jags, that isn’t about to change.
On the bright side, the beginning of Anthony Richardson’s tenure will send shockwaves through the team, but he’s not the only one to pay attention to. Shaq Leonard, the offensive line, and the young defensive backfield can equally impact the Colts’ early season success. Going into week one, the third youngest team in the NFL has a few storylines to keep your eye on.
Anthony Richardson in Shane Steichen’s Offense
Colts QB Anthony Richardson (5) – Colts.com
Nobody outside the Colts’ building knows how Steichen plans to unleash his superhero, but we can speculate, and speculation leads to magical fireworks. Without Jonathan Taylor, Steichen will have to get creative in the run game. Expect motions and smoke screens to make up for the lack of running back talent. Steichen will certainly utilize run-after-catch receivers like Downs and Pittman in bubbles and quick game to create space on the field. Richardson has the ability to be a major threat in the ground game, but the Colts’ organization can’t afford to have him be the only option. That being said, Richardson could create the greatest NFL highlight reel with Steichen’s guidance.
The Underperforming Offensive Line
Colts G Quenton Nelson (56) – Colts.com
Indy’s front five once beat the opposition to dust, but now they have a lot to prove if the offense is going to improve. It doesn’t help that the first test is daunting.
Bonafide pass rusher Josh Allen is looking to build upon a solid 2022 and former first overall pick Travon Walker on the warpath to prove he was worthy of his draft position. You can bet they’re loving starting their campaign against a Colts line that has more questions than answers.
However, if Bernhard Raimann actually improved this summer and Quenton Nelson is revitalized, the offense might stand a chance against the Jags’ pass rush.
All Hail The Maniac!
Colts LB Shaq Leonard (53) – Colts.com
The return of Shaq Leonard may be the team’s most important addition this season. At the time of writing, he is still in concussion protocol but is said to be progressing and looks to be in the lineup for week one. Leonard’s ability to create turnovers can stabilize the sinking ship that the defense would be without him.
Shaq’s game will need to be on point if the Colts have any chance of slowing down Trevor Lawrence and his fury of pass-catchers. Lawrence’s second season with Doug Pederson and the addition of Calvin Ridley, the Jags are primed for explosive plays. The exact kind of plays the maniac will need to shut down for the defense to have a chance on Sunday.
Colts Air Control Interns
Colts DB Darrell Baker Jr. (29) – Colts.com
Speaking of slowing down big plays, Indy’s secondary is still wet behind the ears, but that won’t stop them from being tested. Outside corners Darrell Baker Jr. and Dallis Flowers are both second-year undrafted free agents. Granted, both young men are brimming with untapped potential, but the Jags’ passing attack is no slouch and could expose the new corners early and often.
Gus Bradley will learn quickly what he has to work with in his second year as Indy’s Defensive Coordinator. Expect simple coverages with a variety of players taking reps at Ridley, Kirk, and Engram.
The 2023 Colts season will be a roller coaster ride, and starting with a division rival is like a death drop before your seat belt is buckled. Nevertheless, the ride is starting, and the Colts will be, at worst, entertaining this year.
