The Indianapolis Colts defense held on as long as it could against the Denver Broncos, but overcoming the issues on the offensive side of the football was a very tall task.
Now that the dust has settled on this game, Pro Football Focus has had the chance to review the tape and handed out their individual player grades. So, which Colts’ players on defense received the highest marks?
Before diving in, I do like to mention that while PFF’s grades are helpful in quantifying a performance, they are not the be-all-end-all when it comes to player evaluation. It is one metric and should be treated as such. However, when a player performs well, the grade reflects that.
Here is a look at PFF’s grading system to provide some context behind the numbers:
90.0+: Elite
80-89.9: High quality
70-79.9: Good
60-69.9: Above average
50-59.9: Average
40-49.9: Below average
39.9 or less: Poor
S Nick Cross
PFF grade: 86.7
Cross was in on 13 total tackles in this game and no missed attempts either. In coverage, he allowed only one reception for 13 yards and came away with an interception as well.
CB Sam Womack
PFF grade: 79.9
Womack was targeted four times and allowed three receptions, according to PFF, but he limited the pass-catchers to a total of just 22 yards–or 7.3 yards per catch. Womack also forced a pass breakup and had an interception.
S Julian Blackmon
PFF grade: 69.8
Blackmon was in on three tackles and had a quiet day in coverage–which is a good thing for a defensive back–with only one target that ended up as an incomplete pass.
Honorable Mentions
LB Grant Stuard: 69.1
LB EJ Speed: 65.0
DT Grover Stewart: 64.9