Both the Indianapolis Colts and the Green Bay Packers will be looking to bounce back after each team suffered a loss in their respective regular season openers. Historically speaking, falling to 0-2 does not bode well for making the playoffs.
Last week, from the Colts offense, we saw on full display the sky-high ceiling that quarterback Anthony Richardson possesses. On the flip side, there were also the expected ups and downs from him as well, along with struggles in the run game.
If the Colts offense is going to find success this coming Sunday against the Packers’ defense, here are their three keys to doing so.
Hit the layups
Richardson and the passing game were able to generate three plays of 50 or more yards–two of which went for touchdowns. However, those aforementioned missed opportunities came on much easier throws and ones that you’d expect Richardson to make. Two of his incompletions came on passes to AD Mitchell, where he was open and, if completed, likely would have gone for a touchdown. The ability to capitalize on those plays will provide the passing game with more consistency and help sustain drives.
Get Jonathan Taylor going
Perhaps one of the more surprising aspects from Week 1 was Jonathan Taylor’s struggles in the run game. He finished with 16 carries but totaled only 48 yards. Success on the ground has a massive trickle-down impact to the rest of the offense. Specifically setting up short down-and-distance situations that can open up opportunities in the passing game, along with also helping to control the time of possession. All of which will help take some of the workload off of Richardson’s plate as well.
Limit the Packers’ pass rush
The Packers pack a lot of fire power along their defensive front. Between Rashan Gary, Kenny Clark, Preston Smith, and others, this unit has the ability to take over games. Last week against the Eagles, the Packers prioritized keeping Jalen Hurts in the pocket, which took away some of the pass rush’s bite. The result was the Eagles’ offensive line–which is one the best units in football–giving up only nine pressures.
If the Packers take a similar approach this week and the Colts’ offensive line can hold up and win their one-on-one matchups, Richardson will have time to go through his reads while the Colts’ receivers will have additional time to create separation. The offense will almost always have the advantage when the secondary has to defend for 3-4 seconds at a time. Conversely, quick pressure will wreck just about any offensive play design.