Colts’ Winning Game Plan: Key Strategies for the Colts to Crush the Titans
The Indianapolis Colts (6-8) are heading into a pivotal matchup with their AFC South foe Tennessee Titans (3-11). While it might seem like Indy doesn’t have much to play for after a gut-wrenching, playoff-crushing loss to the Denver Broncos, there is a lot at stake to finish 2024, starting with the Titans.
Here are the most important keys to victory for Shane Steichen’s squad if they don’t want to start a mini-losing streak for their final stretch of the regular season.
Don’t Let Pollard Have Repeat Performance
Titans running back Tony Pollard has been the engine for the league’s 27th-ranked offense (301 yards per game). The veteran ball-carrier has 230 carries for 982 rushing yards (4.3 average) and five touchdowns on the ground. He’s also caught 39 passes for 233 receiving yards (6.0 average).
Pollard is far better than his numbers indicate, operating behind a below-average offensive line and creating plays that aren’t there. Against Indy in Week five, he tallied up 93 rushing yards on 17 attempts (5.5 average) and a 23-yard touchdown. If the Colts want to keep the Titans as underdogs, the defense must tackle well and keep Pollard’s impact to a minimum.
Colts’ wide receiver Josh Downs returned last week against the Broncos after a shoulder injury sidelined him multiple games. However, he didn’t fare well, catching 3/8 targets for 32 receiving yards. However, Anthony Richardson needs Downs to get quick-wins and separation against Tennessee.
Laiatu Latu and Kwity Paye
The Titans’ offensive line isn’t good at protecting their quarterbacks, and it shows with 46 sacks allowed through 14 games (tied-fifth). Switching from the more athletic and mobile Will Levis to Mason Rudolph creates a unique opportunity for Indy’s pass-rush. While Rudolph gets rid of the ball quicker, he’s also easier to pressure and sack.
Enter the Colts’ prominent defensive ends Laiatu Latu and Kwity Paye.
