In big moments, even when things aren’t going well, teams need their best players to make those key plays in crucial moments.
On the offensive side of the ball for the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday in Tennessee, those players were Michael Pittman and Josh Downs.
It was tough sledding in the passing game overall for the Colts offense, which, to a degree, was to be expected against a very stingy Titans’ pass defense that entered the game ranked second in yards per pass attempt allowed and was one of the best at limiting explosive plays.
Quarterback Joe Flacco would complete 22-of-38 passes for 189 yards with two touchdowns and an interception. Catching nearly 50 percent of those completions were Downs and Pittman. Accounting for 53 percent of Flacco’s total yards were Downs and Pittman as well as both touchdown passes.
Downs would lead the team in receptions with seven and yards with 66, including a long of 22 yards. Pittman had three receptions for 35 yards.
However, it wasn’t just the raw production from Downs and Pittman that was crucial to the Colts winning this game–although it was certainly important–but the moments at which a few of these receptions occurred.
On the opening drive and on the cusp of the red zone, that was when Flacco connected with Downs for the 22 yard score. Pittman’s touchdown then came later one with the Colts inside the Titans 20-yard line and helped Indianapolis regain the lead.
In a close, low-scoring game, where moving the ball isn’t coming easy, being able to punch the ball in the end zone when deep in the opponent’s territory is crucial. It goes without saying but in a game that the Colts won by three points, if either of those scoring chances ends in a field goal, this game has a different outcome.
Pittman then had another crucial reception late. Facing a 2nd-and-10 just before the two-minute warning, Flacco connected with Pittman for a 16 yard gain that moved the sticks and provided Indianapolis with a fresh set of downs.
Even though they were unable to pick up another first down to completely ice the game, the Titans got the ball back deep in their own territory and only with 12 seconds left.
Adding to the impressive performances from each receiver is that both Downs and Pittman were questionable for this game. It was even reported early in the week that Pittman could end up on injured reserve because of the back injury.
As the old saying goes, a win is a win. It wasn’t pretty but counts the same as a blowout victory. And while football is the ultimate team game, the Colts were able to pull this game out in large part because of the play of Downs and Pittman.