Grades: Week 7 vs Bengals

[Superman]

Box score

Callin 'em Out

Week 6 grades

Defense, A+: 54 plays, 135 yards (that's 2.5 yards/play), 8 first downs (5 passing, 1 rushing, 2 from penalty), 1/13 on third down, 0/1 on fourth down, 0/1 in the red zone, 0 turnovers, 0 points; first shutout since 2008, and that was an end of season game with starters on the bench

I'm not even going to waste anyone's time by breaking this down by unit, like I usually do. Let's just set the record straight: I don't think our defense has ever played a game like this. Maybe the Chiefs game in the 2006 playoffs, but really, just complete domination for four quarters. Practically no yards for most of the game. They didn't come close to threatening to score until that 4th quarter possession, and that took an incredible catch from Sanu, between double coverage. Then, when they got down into the red zone, our guys made it very clear that this game would NOT be put up for grabs. The 4th and goal play saw immediate pressure on Dalton, and the only throw he had a chance at was well short of the end zone, with two guys making sure the ball wouldn't be caught. We hit their receivers all game long -- high, low, when the ball arrived, after the ball arrived, etc. Basically no yards after the catch. A ton of pressures, with four sacks and several more jarring hits. There was no run game. The run fits were pretty good, with some misses, but the linebackers and safeties cleaned those up with little trouble. I'm sure the long week helped (compared to the Bengals, who had a long overtime game on the road, then had to travel to Indy), but they were nothing short of outstanding, all game long. The only negative was Walden being ejected, but his replacement played well, so big deal. The defense gave no quarter, not even to the refs.

Offense, B+: 78 plays, 506 yards, 27 first downs (15 passing, 11 rushing, 1 from penalty), 5/13 on third down (none in the first half), 2/4 in the red zone, 2 turnovers, 27 points; nice, balanced performance, but we struggled on third down for a lot of the game, and still gave the ball up

QB: Not as sharp as he'd been in recent weeks, with some over/underthrows, some late throws, some hesitation to pull the trigger, late decisions to run or scramble, etc. One red zone play, he completely missed Richardson, who was wide open on the backside of the play for a TD (and if this play wasn't designed specifically to get Richardson open, then I don't understand the play; if it was, then I don't understand why Luck never even looked at him). Almost threw a really bad interception on a throw that made no sense in the red zone. And he was still incredibly productive. He dashed the Bengals, a typically capable defense, to pieces, despite leaving nearly a dozen plays on the field. Had 27 completions, several nice checkdowns, sliced up some zone coverage on intermediate throws, and made sure to get at least one deep one to Hilton, just in case anyone missed last week's highlight reel performance. Also, he knocked one of the most physical -- and dirtiest -- linebackers out of the game for a bit on an open field collision (that happens to be the play where he missed Richardson). B-, shows how good he is when he's on top of his game

Backs / receivers / tight ends, B+:

Running game: Really good game by both guys, and then Boom came in and finished it off. Richardson had a couple carries that looked like he didn't know what to do, and I blame him for the fumble, but the majority of his performance was very good. He hit the hole hard, got around the corner when it was time to do so, shook some guys with ease, and finished strong. Bradshaw did the same, and looked quicker this week than he has recently. I think the long week did him a lot of good. Bad fumble, again, but I get the feeling he'll straighten that out. And Boom was up to the second level in a flash almost every time he got the ball. B+, strong game, we probably should have run more; I hate fumbles

Passing game: Dropped passes were not good to see. A couple of them were on Reggie, and after rewatching, it was pretty obvious that his arm was bothering him. Other than that, guys were getting open, making good catches, shrugging off defenders and picking up extra yardage in chunks, including Allen's big TD run. The backs did a great job of turning upfield after getting dumpoffs; Richardson undressed a couple of guys in the open field. Overall, we had 217 yards afer the catch, which is a testament to how hard guys were running with the ball. Great job by everyone. B+, let's fix the drops

OL / blocking: There were some mistakes in protection, and it seemed like every one of them led to a QB hit. But there weren't that many issues pass blocking. Luck usually had more than enough time to throw. And the run blocking was on point as well. Again, some lost battles, which happens to even the best line, but we got push up the middle, sealed the outside so the backs could patiently wait for the play to develop, created running lanes... The pull blocking was very good, where it had been sloppy in the past. And my goodness, the counter blocking was devastating. Oh, and no snap issues from Harrison. This was a good outing for the line, against a good defensive front. A

Special teams: Let out a 40 yard kickoff return, where McAfee probably should have been putting the ball out of the back of the end zone. And still very little return game of our own. Other than that, special teams was on it. AV was perfect, including a 50 yarder for the oldest player in the NFL. McAfee punted the heck out of the ball, and when I thought he had easily outkicked his coverage, the coverage busted their humps to get down the field and cover. Longest punt return was 8 yards. Pat continues to set the tone (had a tackle, for good measure), and special teams continues to get the job done. A-

Coaching / playcalling / game management, A:

I loved the safety blitzes, corner blitzes, the freedom for the secondary to play up on short passes, etc. Manusky is doing a good job of manufacturing our pass rush. Well-run and well-coached scrape/gap exchang on the read option. A, I hope the guys can continue to make these gameplans look good

The offensive attack was very good. I thought we could have run more, but the passing schemes were excellent. More play action, which I love. Not enough rollouts, but that's okay. I especially like that Luck has a bit more freedom to make sight adjustments and throw the smoke route. B+, could use more run plays

The game management was right on. No issue with use of timeouts. I wouldn't have thrown the challenge flag, but Pagano was right to do so. You never know when a botched snap, penalty or fumble might happen, and the play was fixed as a result of the challenge, so good for him. A

Game ball: Vontae Davis

He helped set the tone with the big hit on Bernard early in the game, played tight coverage for four quarters, knocked out several balls, including one that would have been a TD, and just terrorized the Bengals receivers from start to finish. Seven targets, two catches, 21 yards, no TDs. I hope he can keep playing like this.

Next up, at Pittsburgh. It's the first Luck / Roethlisberger matchup. And Reggie might not play. Going to be a tough game, I think.

GO COLTS!!!

[Defjamz26]

Wow I can't believe Hilton is already at 700+ yards. It's halfway through the season and he's already close to 1,000 yards. Assuming he sits for week 16 to stay fresh, he's on pace for 1,500 yards

[jskinnz]

Wow I can't believe Hilton is already at 700+ yards. It's halfway through the season and he's already close to 1,000 yards. Assuming he sits for week 16 to stay fresh, he's on pace for 1,500 yards

 

As this point in time, why would you assume he sits in week 16? 

[Defjamz26]

As this point in time, why would you assume he sits in week 16? 

I'm assuming that we'll have our seed clinched by then and Pagano will rest most of the starters.

[Doctor Mad]

This was as complete an effort and victory as possible. Very encouraged with running game. Steady improvement from TRich. The hit by Davis on Bernard as awesome. Hopefully this is the team that can show up every week. Great job guys! Go Colts!

[TKnight24]

I'm assuming that we'll have our seed clinched by then and Pagano will rest most of the starters.

Yep, #2 seed clinched by week 15

Denver gets the #1 by either a Better record or the tie breaker they have over us

[coltmb]

I'm assuming that we'll have our seed clinched by then and Pagano will rest most of the starters.

We could be in contention for the number 1 or 2 seed.

[BrentMc11]

I agree with all grades except Luck...I have to give him a solid B or B+.

 

He did throw behind receivers, and some really bad throws...but....I do see why you graded him down.  Well done Superman.

[21isSuperman]

I wasn't able to see a replay of the game, but one of the fumbles hit the Richardson in the arm and I can't remember if it was Luck's fault for bad ball placement or the Richardson's fault for not opening his arms enough.  Was anyone able to see that play again?

[jskinnz]

I'm assuming that we'll have our seed clinched by then and Pagano will rest most of the starters.

 

1) Not sure why you would assume that in week 8.  The division seems likely but the top seeds / bye will up for grabs

 

2) Pagano has not rested players who were not injured the last couple of seasons.

 

Very strange comment to make.

[Superman]

I wasn't able to see a replay of the game, but one of the fumbles hit the Richardson in the arm and I can't remember if it was Luck's fault for bad ball placement or the Richardson's fault for not opening his arms enough. Was anyone able to see that play again?

I didn't think it hit him in the arm. Luck put it right in his chest. It was a counter play, which is a tricky handoff, and Trent was setting up his cut and getting ready to change direction, and in so doing, he never got his hands and arms on the ball. The ball was placed a little high, but not too high.

[Defjamz26]

1) Not sure why you would assume that in week 8.  The division seems likely but the top seeds / bye will up for grabs

 

2) Pagano has not rested players who were not injured the last couple of seasons.

 

Very strange comment to make.

1. Seems likely that Colts could have the #2 seed based on how everyone else in the conference  is playing.

2. Because they've never secured the #1 or #2 seed in the seasons they've been here

 

Just my opinion/prediction.

 

Div. Winners:

-Broncos

-Colts

-Ravens

-Patriots

 

Top Seeds:

1. Broncos

2. Colts

 

Wildcard Teams:

1. Chargers

2. Bengals

[Superman]

I agree with all grades except Luck...I have to give him a solid B or B+.

He did throw behind receivers, and some really bad throws...but....I do see why you graded him down. Well done Superman.

Yeah I just thought he missed several chances to make plays, and if the defense wasn't so incredible, the first half might have gone differently.

[21isSuperman]

I didn't think it hit him in the arm. Luck put it right in his chest. It was a counter play, which is a tricky handoff, and Trent was setting up his cut and getting ready to change direction, and in so doing, he never got his hands and arms on the ball. The ball was placed a little high, but not too high.

I see.  I haven't been able to find the play again, so I'm not too sure.

[Superman]

1. Seems likely that Colts could have the #2 seed based on how everyone else in the conference is playing.

2. Because they've never secured the #1 or #2 seed in the seasons they've been here

Just my opinion/prediction.

Div. Winners:

-Broncos

-Colts

-Ravens

-Patriots

Top Seeds:

1. Broncos

2. Colts

Wildcard Teams:

1. Chargers

2. Bengals

I could see us sitting some of the older guys, like Reggie, Bradshaw, Redding, etc. Not Hilton, though. Especially if he's having a career year, which he is already.

[BrentMc11]

Yeah I just thought he missed several chances to make plays, and if the defense wasn't so incredible, the first half might have gone differently.

You know what, his handoff to TRich was not great either....even though Richardson should have 'squeezed' it.  Luck put it on his pads insted of in his belly.  B- it is

[Valpo2004]

2 bad fumbles and the backs got a B+

[Superman]

2 bad fumbles and the backs got a B+

Yup.

I thought they ran so well that it made up for the fumbles. It would have been an A otherwise. JMO.

[jskinnz]

1. Seems likely that Colts could have the #2 seed based on how everyone else in the conference  is playing.

2. Because they've never secured the #1 or #2 seed in the seasons they've been here

 

Just my opinion/prediction.

 

Div. Winners:

-Broncos

-Colts

-Ravens

-Patriots

 

Top Seeds:

1. Broncos

2. Colts

 

Wildcard Teams:

1. Chargers

2. Bengals

 

Sorry - that fails the logic test as well.  If not both years at least one they already had their playoff position set under Pagano and they played everyone who was not dinged.  So given precedence, why would they rest Hilton if he is healthy and they had a bye locked up and were already assured of a week off? 

[SteelCityColt]

You forgot to grade the pitch invader

[ColtStronger]

Don't forget the bone jarring hit Mike Adams laid on Gio also.  Not quite as good as Vontae's but definitely one he didn't forget.  After those two screen plays I saw another where Dalton threw it to him out of the backfield and would've caught it if he wasn't worried about turning his head to see if he was going to get laid out a third time.

[OffensivelyPC]

I didn't think it hit him in the arm. Luck put it right in his chest. It was a counter play, which is a tricky handoff, and Trent was setting up his cut and getting ready to change direction, and in so doing, he never got his hands and arms on the ball. The ball was placed a little high, but not too high.

I didn't fault Trent for the fumble, since I think the ball placement could have been better.  For me and the way I view it, Trent is relying on proper ball placement while he's reading his blockers during hte exchange.  When you handoff too high and hit the harder chest plate, it can (and did) result in the ball bouncing off the chest and by the time the RB realizes it, the ball's too far away from his body before he notices.  When you stick it lower in the gut, the body absorbs the impact so it doesn't bounce too far from hsi body and the RB hsa a chance to adjust accordingly.  That was my take on it, but perhaps Trent's body was (leaning) too far forward for Luck to get proper placement.  That I'm not sure about. But regardless of who's fault it was (and it sounds like, at least according to your analysis, the fault is 50/50), it was a fumble that shouldn't have ever happened. 

[Superman]

I didn't fault Trent for the fumble, since I think the ball placement could have been better.  For me and the way I view it, Trent is relying on proper ball placement while he's reading his blockers during hte exchange.  When you handoff too high and hit the harder chest plate, it can (and did) result in the ball bouncing off the chest and by the time the RB realizes it, the ball's too far away from his body before he notices.  When you stick it lower in the gut, the body absorbs the impact so it doesn't bounce too far from hsi body and the RB hsa a chance to adjust accordingly.  That was my take on it, but perhaps Trent's body was (leaning) too far forward for Luck to get proper placement.  That I'm not sure about. But regardless of who's fault it was (and it sounds like, at least according to your analysis, the fault is 50/50), it was a fumble that shouldn't have ever happened. 

 

Yeah, that's true. Being that it was a counter run, it's possible that Trent was lower than usual, or leaning more than usual, and that caused the ball to be placed on his chest, rather than in his gut. This play kind of exemplifies why they say the devil is in the details. Minor little things that can result in game-changing plays.

 

The fault is probably shared, but I think more goes on Trent, since the ball was handed off to him, albeit not perfectly.

 

All things considered, it didn't matter too much. The defense made sure of that.

[OffensivelyPC]

All things considered, it didn't matter too much. The defense made sure of that.

You sure aren't kidding.  Sometimes on the day after a really bad game, the coaches jsut throw the film out because reviewing it doesn't do any good.  It was that bad for Cincy. 

[NewColtsFan]

Yeah, that's true. Being that it was a counter run, it's possible that Trent was lower than usual, or leaning more than usual, and that caused the ball to be placed on his chest, rather than in his gut. This play kind of exemplifies why they say the devil is in the details. Minor little things that can result in game-changing plays.

 

The fault is probably shared, but I think more goes on Trent, since the ball was handed off to him, albeit not perfectly.

 

All things considered, it didn't matter too much. The defense made sure of that.

 

For whatever it's worth,  I think officially the Trent fumble has been given to Andrew.    At least,  that's where it was in the score book at the end of the game.     I don't know if it's been changed days later.....

[BrentMc11]

For whatever it's worth,  I think officially the Trent fumble has been given to Andrew.    At least,  that's where it was in the score book at the end of the game.     I don't know if it's been changed days later.....

Yes, it was a bad hand off....I mentioned it above and someone came along and mentioned it again...wish folks would read around here.

[southwest1]

Hey Superman, what's your assessment of WR Hakeem Nicks? I only ask because I respect your opinion & football I.Q. Do you think he is being under utilized by Pep? Do you think his skills & injuries have diminished too much & Pagano is afraid to put him on the field? Is he an asset or a liability to you at this stage in his NFL career? 

 

Even if we do not resign him next year in favor of Moncrief, shouldn't we at least find a way to take advantage of his size & catching radius right now? Is it a lack of chemistry & trust with Luck? 

 

Any feedback you could provide me on Nicks would be immensely appreciated Superman. Thank you. I'm not looking for numbers or stats just your gut feeling. Just give it to me straight. You are under no obligation to qualify or validate your remarks. I just want your intuitions on this WR on our roster right now. 

 

If you don't like him fine. Just tell me why you think that...

[Superman]

For whatever it's worth, I think officially the Trent fumble has been given to Andrew. At least, that's where it was in the score book at the end of the game. I don't know if it's been changed days later.....

That's what I saw also. I think both players will accept some of the blame on that play.

[Superman]

Hey Superman, what's your assessment of WR Hakeem Nicks? I only ask because I respect your opinion & football I.Q. Do you think he is being under utilized by Pep? Do you think his skills & injuries have diminished too much & Pagano is afraid to put him on the field? Is he an asset or a liability to you at this stage in his NFL career?

Even if we do not resign him next year in favor of Moncrief, shouldn't we at least find a way to take advantage of his size & catching radius right now? Is it a lack of chemistry & trust with Luck?

Any feedback you could provide me on Nicks would be immensely appreciated Superman. Thank you. I'm not looking for numbers or stats just your gut feeling. Just give it to me straight. You are under no obligation to qualify or validate your remarks. I just want your intuitions on this WR on our roster right now.

If you don't like him fine. Just tell me why you think that...

Nicks is pretty much way down in the pecking order. He's getting fewer snaps than Wayne, Hilton, Allen, Fleener, and probably both backs. He's our WR3, but in reality, he's probably the 4th or 5th option whenever he's on the field. Part of that is because the others guys are just playing better.

The other thing is that he's not getting a lot of separation, and so isn't really making a case for getting more time, let alone more targets and touches. He was never a speedster, but he could run good enough routes and use his body control to finish plays. He was also usually the #1 option, and so some of his production was a result of volume and necessity. We definitely don't have that same necessity.

If Reggie misses time, I think Nicks is good enough to fill the void. He'll get more reps and more targets, and I'm sure he'll perform well enough.

[Defjamz26]

Sorry - that fails the logic test as well.  If not both years at least one they already had their playoff position set under Pagano and they played everyone who was not dinged.  So given precedence, why would they rest Hilton if he is healthy and they had a bye locked up and were already assured of a week off? 

 

Like I said, the Colts have never had the 1 or 2 seed. And it would be wise to rest the starters even if you get a 1st round bye since injuries can happen anytime. Players often play through pains and nagging injuries during the season. Resting them would assure they're as fresh as possible. It's not an uncommon practice.

 

And I'm not sure what you mean by "this fails the logic test". It's just an opinion I'm making. We're all entitled to our assumptions.

[BuckingColt]

I didn't think it hit him in the arm. Luck put it right in his chest. It was a counter play, which is a tricky handoff, and Trent was setting up his cut and getting ready to change direction, and in so doing, he never got his hands and arms on the ball. The ball was placed a little high, but not too high.

 

That's how I felt. Trent should have handled it, imo.

[southwest1]

Nicks is pretty much way down in the pecking order. He's getting fewer snaps than Wayne, Hilton, Allen, Fleener, and probably both backs. He's our WR3, but in reality, he's probably the 4th or 5th option whenever he's on the field. Part of that is because the others guys are just playing better.

The other thing is that he's not getting a lot of separation, and so isn't really making a case for getting more time, let alone more targets and touches. He was never a speedster, but he could run good enough routes and use his body control to finish plays. He was also usually the #1 option, and so some of his production was a result of volume and necessity. We definitely don't have that same necessity.

If Reggie misses time, I think Nicks is good enough to fill the void. He'll get more reps and more targets, and I'm sure he'll perform well enough.

You make a variety of spot on points Superman all of which I bolded. Nicks has never been a lightning fast track star on the field that's true. I just hope that we use him strategically in spurts at some point in the playoffs to make some nice catches on the sideline if nothing else. I get not wanting to mess up the high octane mojo of Allen, Hilton, Fleener, & Wayne when INDY's offense is clicking & firing on all cylinders, but I just don't like shelving an experienced veteran with little game reps action week to week.

 

At some point, Nicks may be called on to make a critical completion & with minimal reps I don't want him dropping a must have pass for a big gain downfield simply because he isn't on the same page with Luck. I realize that Hakeem isn't a young WR anymore & that a coaching staff cannot tailor packages just for Nicks exclusively which could alter the flow of timing with other WRs & TE's if you move away from whatever offensive weapon is hottest in any given quarter. 

 

Perhaps you're right. Maybe Nick's is Pagano's contingency plan if Reggie needs some additional time to heal up. Yeah I know, I can't fall for his SB experience from his NY Giants past. I have to look at his production or lack thereof on the field now. If he's gone next year, so be it. Just get something meaningful out of him this regular season I guess. 

 

Thanks again for indulging me & answering my question Superman. You're a very deep thinker & I always learn something from your posts. 

[bestQBever]

Wow I can't believe Hilton is already at 700+ yards. It's halfway through the season and he's already close to 1,000 yards. Assuming he sits for week 16 to stay fresh, he's on pace for 1,500 yards

I don't think there is any chance that we rest our players week 17. We will be fighting new england and baltimore for the #2 spot and maybe even the broncos for the #1.

[akcolt]

I didn't think it hit him in the arm. Luck put it right in his chest. It was a counter play, which is a tricky handoff, and Trent was setting up his cut and getting ready to change direction, and in so doing, he never got his hands and arms on the ball. The ball was placed a little high, but not too high.

He hit him in the breast plate of the shoulder pads with the ball.... that was on Luck.