2007-08 Indianapolis Colts Playoff Profileby James Alder
The Team:
Team Colors: Speed Blue and White
Head Coach: Tony Dungy
Owner: Jim Irsay
Mascot: Blue
Location: Indianapolis, Indiana Offensive Ranking:
Run: 18th (106.6)
Pass: 6th (252.1)
Overall: 5th (358.7)
Points Per Game: 28.1
Key Player: Peyton Manning
With Marvin Harrison out much of the season, Manning has had to adjust to some new guys in the receiving corps. Following a little inconsistency and some miscommunication, Manning has become more comfortable with his guys. It looks like Harrison will be available when the postseason begins, and his absence may have been a blessing in disguise as rookie Anthony Gonzalez was able to gain some valuable experience.
Defensive Ranking:
Run: 15th (106.9)
Pass: 2nd (172.8)
Overall: 3rd (279.7)
Points Per Game: 1st (16.4)
Key Player: Bob Sanders
Last year, the Colts defense disintegrated when Sanders was benched by injury. But his return in the playoffs sparked a resurgence that helped the Colts capture their first championship since moving to Indianapolis. If there is one guy on defense the Colts cannot afford to lose, it's Sanders. Turnovers:
Give Aways: 19
Take Aways: 37 Outlook:
With Manning orchestrating the offense and the defense among the best in the league, the Colts have to be considered serious threats once again this year. They will, however, be forced to travel to Foxboro for the AFC championship game, assuming both Indy and New England make it that far, for what could be an epic matchup in what is brewing as one of the greatest rivalries in recent NFL history.
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