The Colts will travel down to Houston for their second divisional match-up of the season, and all signs are pointing to a budding rivalry. Not only is it the first time fans will see Richardson vs. Stroud, but also Steichen vs. Ryans. Both rookie quarterback and coach combinations enter week two winless and desperate to see growth in their young players. However, based on their week one performance, the road to success looks shorter for the team from Indiana.
Indianapolis has a substantial amount to work on with their young squad, but luckily, they enter Houston with a more talented squad on both sides of the ball. With simple yet necessary keys to success, the Colts should leave Texas with their first win of 2023.
Colts Run Game
Colts RB Deon Jackson (35) and QB Anthony Richardson (5) – Colts.com
Indy’s run game was stagnant against the Jags in week one, with Anthony Richardson as the leading rusher with 40 yards. Richardson’s running ability is an excellent tool, but it can’t be the only rushing attack available. Evan Hull was placed on IR this week, but Zack Moss was a full participant in practice and could make his season debut this Sunday in Houston. Deon Jackson was ineffective in week one, but the offensive line has to take some blame for that. The lack of run-blocking efficiency was detrimental.
In Houston, Indianapolis needs to get the run game established. Shane Steichen is still inputting his run scheme with players who were drafted for the Frank Reich era, so it may take some time. However, with another week in the system and a Houston defense that is missing key players like Jalen Pitre and Jimmie Ward, the Colts have an opportunity to make themselves known in the run game.
Colts’ Run Defense
Colts LB Zaire Franklin (44) – Colts.com
Everything for the Texans’ offense runs through second-year running back Dameon Pierce. The Colts’ defense will certainly be centered around making Pierce look like the Indy’s run game from week one: inept. Zaire Franklin is primed for another big game following his 17 tackles and one forced fumble performance against the Jags. Shaq Leonard is another week healthy and ready to return to his former glory, and if Deforest Buckner keeps his pace, he may surpass Aaron Donald as the league’s best interior lineman. The defense is pure energy and playmaking, which will naturally put rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud in an uncomfortable pocket. If Stroud has to throw to win, the defense has done their job perfectly.
3rd Down Conversions
Colts WRs Alec Pierce (14) and Josh Downs (1) – Colts.com
The late down efforts in week one were embarrassing, to say the least. Richardson led the team to 3/17 on third and fourth down, which kills drives and momentum. In order to be successful in converting late downs, the run game needs to be on point and manageable. 3rd and <4 is a great place to be with Richardson’s run-pass ability. However, even more important will be to get the best weapons involved on key downs. Pittman, Downs, and Granson have been the most reliable and best offensive weapons to extend drives.
So far, Alec Pierce has been a non-factor, but using his downfield attack ability in week two should be a focus. Shutting down Will Anderson Jr. will be vital to the passing attack. The third overall pick is a special defender who requires attention in blocking schemes. Expect chips and double teams to pick up Anderson Jr. early and often. Extending drives and keeping the Texans’ offense off the field is a surefire way to victory.
The Texans and Colts are in similar spots in their rebuilding phases, but the Colts are simply more talented. The defense is set up for a big stat builder this week, and Richardson has the ability to go off at any moment. Fans from both sides can look forward to these match-ups for years to come!
