In the midst of a three-gam losing streak, the Indianapolis Colts will look to get back on track in Week 11 as they travel to New York to take on the Jets.
Despite the losing streak, the Colts’ defense has held its own and done so against some good opponents. However, the Indianapolis offense, specifically the passing game, has struggled mightily. The hope is that the return of Anthony Richardson can provide a spark.
Although the Jets and Colts both play in the AFC, this is a fairly uncommon opponent for Indianapolis. The last time these two teams met was in 2021.
To help us preview the Jets, who are 3-7 on the year and having their own struggles, is Nick Wojton, the managing editor of Jets Wire. Wojton answered five of our questions to help provide us with some insight into this opponent.
With high expectations, what has gone wrong for the Jets this season on a roster with so much talent?
Wojton: In a word: Everything. Aaron Rodgers is not the QB he once was and the Jets have barely altered their offense to account for that. Just last week Breece Hall averaged 5.2 yards per carry, and yet, Rodgers had 40+ attempts. Defensively, it’s a bit odd. This once ‘elite’ unit even has had problems tackling. The Jets practiced tackling (seriously) this week. That’s the level it’s at.
On the flip side, are there any aspects where they’ve found steady success, giving opponents fits?
Wojton: On offense, Hall has shined in moments and despite Davante Adams taking targets away, Garrett Wilson has been elite since moving into a bit more of a No. 2 role. Off the edge on defense, Will McDonald has had good outings and DJ Reed has potentially been a better defensive back than Sauce Gardner in 2024.
The numbers we see from Rodgers aren’t very Rodgers-like, how has he looked this season?
Wojton: The biggest reason for that actually has nothing to do with any numbers. He can’t move anymore. Teams once feared blitzing him because he’d find open players down field. Not anymore, and that shows.
Who is an under the radar player on offense and defense that Colts fans should know about?
Wojton: In a non-sexy light, John Simpson is a really solid offensive line addition for the Jets. Running back Braelon Allen probably would’ve been the pick, but the rookie isn’t featured anymore after New York changed offensive coordinators. Defensively, I’d note Reed again. It’s not like he’s a complete unknown, just Gardner would overshadow him in headlines but Reed is playing very well.
Prediction time–who wins and why?
Wojton: In a shocker, I’ll take the Jets 27-17. My two reasonings would be: I think with Joe Flacco I’d end up taking the Colts. In addition, practicing tackling in the middle of an NFL season? That’s pretty embarrassing and now I think New York’s defense will have some pride to play for… which we haven’t seen much of.