Colts slide one spot in NFL power rankings after loss to Saints

Colts are down to No. 19.

The Indianapolis Colts (6-8) have been steadily sliding in the power rankings for the better part of the last two months and it continued following their 34-7 loss against the New Orleans Saints (11-3) on Monday night.

Now entering Week 16 with nothing to play for but pride, the Colts slid one spot down in Touchdown Wire’s NFL power rankings to No. 19.

19. Indianapolis Colts

(6-8. Last week: 18)

The Colts came into Monday night’s game against New Orleans clinging to slight playoff hopes. After getting crushed by the Saints and Drew Brees, the Colts are officially eliminated from the postseason. They were completely manhandled by the Saints. Would the season had gone differently if quarterback Andrew Luck hadn’t retired in the preseason? Probably not. Jacoby Brissett took over and did an adequate job for a team that’s been decimated by injuries. Now, the Colts need to start looking ahead to next season. They need to get Brissett  more help at the wide receiver position and find a pass-rusher or two on defense.

The Colts have been officially eliminated from the playoffs, which likely means they are going to use the final two games in the regular season to regroup and evaluate where they most have needs on the roster.

While they should certainly be in the market for a quarterback, whether they actually go after one is something that remains to be seen. They should also be in the market for a wide receiver and some defensive help as well.

Until the offseason begins, though, the Colts will be hosting the Carolina Panthers at Lucas Oil Stadium in Week 16.