Yeah, this Colts season could get ugly fast.
Here’s what we learned while watching the Texans race out to a 34-0 halftime lead against the Colts on their way to a 34-7 win.
1. Peyton Manning covered up so many issues for the Colts. They all showed up Sunday.
The offensive line couldn’t protect Kerry Collins. The running game was nowhere to be found. The team struggled to recognize Houston’s blitzes. Special teams was poor, as usual. The defense couldn’t stop the run, as usual.
2. Collins started 5-for-5, but that came with two lost fumbles. Both Colts tackles looked a little lost at times. Communication was an issue for Indy’s offensive line.
3. It doesn’t matter who’s at running back for the Texans. When Derrick Ward left with an injury at halftime, Ben Tate finished the job with 116 yards and a touchdown. We even had a Steve Slaton sighting.
Houston is the new Denver. Their offensive line is that good; any back they play will get yards.
4. So much for that slow transition to Wade Phillips’ defense. Mario Williams had two sacks. Antonio Smith was possibly more disruptive and looked like a perfect fit for the defense. Rookie J.J. Watt was a huge factor all day.
It was the perfect first week opponent for Houston. Now the defense has confidence the new scheme works.
5. The Texans are favorites in the AFC South. It doesn’t mean we should just hand them the division, but they should be able to create distance with Indy in short order. Tennessee and Jacksonville have issues.
