Colts Looking to Stay on Top of the AFC, Headed into Week 7 Against the Chargers
The Indianapolis Colts make their way to the SoFi Stadium this Sunday to go up against the Los Angeles Chargers. Coming off a Week 6 win against the Arizona Cardinals, the Colts were able to lock in their 5-1 run as well as solidify their place as #1 in the AFC. The Chargers, on the other hand, are 4-2 after pulling off a win in a close game against the Miami Dolphins.
According to FanDuel, the Chargers are a 1.5-point favorite over the Colts. Considering that before Week 6, the Chargers were on a 3-week losing streak, I’m not too worried.
Keys to the Game
1. Running Game
Running back Jonathan Taylor has been a star player in the Colts' offense this season. Throughout the season so far, he has continuously broken long runs and scored. If the Colts can run well, it will create more opportunities for passing plays and keep the Chargers' defense off balance.
2. Passing & Protection
Quarterback Daniel Jones has helped guide his team to 5 wins this season, and hopefully, they can bump up to 6 after this week. To do so, the offensive line must keep up the strong protection they have been giving him. To go up against a strong front from the Chargers, they must be able to protect Daniel Jones.
3. Defense & Big Plays
Overall, the Colts' defense is solid, but there have been a few hiccups. For instance, last week against the Arizona Cardinals, they gave up over 400 yards. They were able to tighten up when they really needed to, but that game was far too close for comfort. This week, the defense must stay on its A-game to face Justin Herbert. They have to focus on preventing deep passes and containing plays over the middle.
4. Special Teams & Kicking
Last week, we tragically lost kicker Spencer Shrader for the rest of the season due to a knee injury. With Michael Badgley taking over his role, we have to trust that he will be able to pull through when we need him most.
The Colts have absolutely made a name for themselves this season, and it is time for them to start being taken seriously. Week after week, we have seen growth and improvement, watching them finally find their rhythm as a team. Mixing Jonathan Taylor’s running with Daniel Jones’ passing is the recipe for success, and it is evident their confidence has shot up after multiple wins. Not to mention, coming back strong in the fourth quarter has been a theme this season for the Colts and is a critical trait that pushes them to the finish line.
Though the improvement we have seen from the Colts has been major, there is no such thing as perfect. Some areas call for improvement, such as defense; we can still recognize the massive upgrade from last year. Colts fans know all too well that practice does not make perfect; it makes progress.
On Sunday, we can expect a close game, as both teams are pretty evenly matched. Turnovers and time of possession will decide this game.
Prediction
As a Colts fan, I obviously have to stay optimistic about their rise in the AFC. If the Colts can stay focused and play disciplined football, they stand a good chance of bringing home another win. The Chargers might give us a run for our money, but we know the Colts don’t back down so easily.
Colts 24, Chargers 21