[Can the Colts Survive Without Robert Mathis]

If Hughes steps up his game, the Colts could "survive" without him, but we'd be much better off by having the trio of Freeney, Mathis, and Hughes.

Honestly, if Mathis plays out the last year of his deal, and Hughes steps up, I could see them letting Mathis walk. It certainly isn't ideal, but it would leave money for other things... perhaps a DT?

As for Mathis being more important than Freeney, I wouldn't go that far. Freeney is the most consistently double teamed member of our front 4. That leaves one on one match ups for everyone else. Mathis is likely the 2nd most double teamed guy. Both are extremely valuable contributors, but Freeney has the speed AND power to get it done on both levels. Mathis has some power in his game, but not anywhere near the likes of Freeney.

[an Epidemic Of Of field Problems]

Meh, these things happen through the season as well. It is nothing different. Only downside is they are not actively involved in practice and busy with their jobs. Epidemic, hardly. It's simply foolish players doing what foolish players do.

The Freeney's, Wayne's, Mathis's, Manning's, etc. are seldom if ever seen or written about doing stupid things like this.

[Past July 4th...let's get this deal done]

Here's hoping it gets done sooner rather than later.

Got flight, hotel, etc. booked for the Pittsburgh game... can't wait!