Some Day After Thoughts to Share.....

[NewColtsFan]

 

So, everyone has been starting a thread to share their viewpoint...    I was mostly (but not entirely quiet yesterday)   But it feels like I should offer my two cents now...     those of you who are not fans/friends of mine,  well,  here is your chance to rip me.     Take your best shot.   Here we go....

 

 

1.   Not surprised we lost,  but WAS surprised the game was so lopsided.    But it was from the very first play/series.

 

2.   In my judgement we lost badly and the "game plan" looked so poor basically because we got whipped badly at the LOS on both sides of the ball.   Their D-line outplayed our O-line.    Their O-line had their way with our D-line.    When you lose the battle at the line of scrimmage,  there aren't many game plans that succeed.  I think all the comments about what "a terrible game plan" are badly overstated.     Lose the Line of Scrimmage,  lose the game.    I don't know WHY we got beat so badly there,  but we clearly did.   Reich's comment about being outcoached and outplayed were the exact right things to say.   You don't throw any one,  or any group under the bus.   But inside the franchise,  there ARE answers to be found.   The coaches WILL KNOW what happened.    So will Chris Ballard. 

 

3.   I don't believe we gave up on the run too early as many here do.    I believe the Chiefs took the run away from us.   There's a difference.  When you can't win with your bread and butter,  then you become one dimensional and easier to defend and defeat.

 

4.   I'm not the least bit down on Frank Reich and can't understand why many here have lost faith in him over one loss.    After such an incredible season,  you jump ship over one game?     Sorry,  but that says much more about you than it does about him.   And what it says is not good.    If you're one who wonders if we can do better at the HC position,  then I hope you're cooling off after blowing off some steam for a day.    Frank Reich coached a not very good team and got every last ounce of talent out of them.    Most coaches would not have turned this team into 10-6 and a playoff win in their first year.    Major props to Frank.    Glad he's our coach.

 

5.   I don't know why,  but Luck was dreadful yesterday.    Seriously dreadful.   I think his first 3 or 4 passes were either batted down at the line of scrimmage,  or batted down by LB's or DB's...      and it looked like he lost a LOT off his fast ball.    Was it weather related?    Don't know?    Was his arm tired after a long season?    Don't know?     But he was clearly off his game.  He looked like the Andrew from the first 6 weeks of the season.   I'm still hopeful that after an off-season of rest and rebuilding we will see an even BETTER Andrew Luck in 2019.     His arm got stronger and better during the season.   Should be even better next season.

 

6.   Still curious if the success of this season will accelerate Ballard's 3-year plan of rebuilding?    It might,  but I have no gut instinct for it.    I think there are arguments both for and against it.    Ballard and Reich will probably have an end of the season meeting with the media tomorrow.   Really looking forward to hearing/reading what they have to say.  If not tomorrow, then Tuesday or Wednesday.   Would recommend everyone pay close attention to it.    Both are pretty transparent if you kow how to read between the lines.

 

7.   Been a football fan for more than 50 years and this season was one of the most enjoyable I've ever expereinced.   I suspect it's the same for many of you.   Nothing that happened yesterday changes anything for me.   I've been referencing the expression we're playing with House Money for months and that's the way I feel.    We had everything to gain and nothing to lose.    I kept posting about letting the young players play and learn on the job,  even if it meant some losses.    We did that and we will be a better team for it.    I'm glad we didn't trade for all the big name players around the trade deadline.    I'm not expecting a major trade this off-season either.    Not for Antonio Brown or LeVeon Bell or anyone else.     We might move up or down in the draft to get who we want,  but that's standard for Ballard.    But he's not trading for an expensive player.    Not happening.

 

I'm probably forgetting some things...   over looking some things.    Perhaps what you respond with will trigger some other thoughts.   But I welcome hearing from you.    Even if you want to tell me that I'm full of...   well...   you know.     Bring it!     The 2019 off-season has begun!    Let the fun begin!!

 

[coltsva]

1. Agree. Thought it would be a close game.

2. Agree. We lost at the lines.

3. Disagree. We got a couple of decent runs (6-8 yards), but as soon as we were held to a short gain we gave up on it. IMO, the game felt like more of a blowout than the score indicated, and we could have kept some commitment to the run.

4. Not down on Frank or the staff. In most games this season I felt we were the better coached team. This was the only game I felt the opposing coaches kept us off balance. But again, could have been because of the trenches. I even felt good about the NE game as we were missing 7 starters.

5. Dreadful is a good description. He was indecisive in his throwing and just didn't look right. Maybe we find out why, maybe not.

6. I think the building plan remains the same, for the most part. Although, I think Ballard can make moves to help us contend in 2019 without compromising long term success. In other words, don't trade for a high priced 31 year old receiver, but do be open to signing a 26ish year old high priced talent that will not only help us in 2019, but also in 2020, 2021, 2022.

7. This season is high up on the list of enjoyable seasons.

 

Excited for free agency, draft, season ticket seat relocation/upgrade, and schedule release in April! Go Colts!

[Lucky Colts Fan]

33 minutes ago, NewColtsFan said:

But it feels like I should offer my two cents now...

 

And a good two cents it is.

 

Probably the best thread started in the last 24 hours.

 

[throwing BBZ]

45 minutes ago, NewColtsFan said:

 

So, everyone has been starting a thread to share their viewpoint...    I was mostly (but not entirely quiet yesterday)   But it feels like I should offer my two cents now...     those of you who are not fans/friends of mine,  well,  here is your chance to rip me.     Take your best shot.   Here we go....

 

 

1.   Not surprised we lost,  but WAS surprised the game was so lopsided.    But it was from the very first play/series.

 

2.   In my judgement we lost badly and the "game plan" looked so poor basically because we got whipped badly at the LOS on both sides of the ball.   Their D-line outplayed our O-line.    Their O-line had their way with our D-line.    When you lose the battle at the line of scrimmage,  there aren't many game plans that succeed.  I think all the comments about what "a terrible game plan" are badly overstated.     Lose the Line of Scrimmage,  lose the game.    I don't know WHY we got beat so badly there,  but we clearly did.   Reich's comment about being outcoached and outplayed were the exact right things to say.   You don't throw any one,  or any group under the bus.   But inside the franchise,  there ARE answers to be found.   The coaches WILL KNOW what happened.    So will Chris Ballard. 

 

3.   I don't believe we gave up on the run too early as many here do.    I believe the Chiefs took the run away from us.   There's a difference.  When you can't win with your bread and butter,  then you become one dimensional and easier to defend and defeat.

 

4.   I'm not the least bit down on Frank Reich and can't understand why many here have lost faith in him over one loss.    After such an incredible season,  you jump ship over one game?     Sorry,  but that says much more about you than it does about him.   And what it says is not good.    If you're one who wonders if we can do better at the HC position,  then I hope you're cooling off after blowing off some steam for a day.    Frank Reich coached a not very good team and got every last ounce of talent out of them.    Most coaches would not have turned this team into 10-6 and a playoff win in their first year.    Major props to Frank.    Glad he's our coach.

 

5.   I don't know why,  but Luck was dreadful yesterday.    Seriously dreadful.   I think his first 3 or 4 passes were either batted down at the line of scrimmage,  or batted down by LB's or DB's...      and it looked like he lost a LOT off his fast ball.    Was it weather related?    Don't know?    Was his arm tired after a long season?    Don't know?     But he was clearly off his game.  He looked like the Andrew from the first 6 weeks of the season.   I'm still hopeful that after an off-season of rest and rebuilding we will see an even BETTER Andrew Luck in 2019.     His arm got stronger and better during the season.   Should be even better next season.

 

6.   Still curious if the success of this season will accelerate Ballard's 3-year plan of rebuilding?    It might,  but I have no gut instinct for it.    I think there are arguments both for and against it.    Ballard and Reich will probably have an end of the season meeting with the media tomorrow.   Really looking forward to hearing/reading what they have to say.  If not tomorrow, then Tuesday or Wednesday.   Would recommend everyone pay close attention to it.    Both are pretty transparent if you kow how to read between the lines.

 

7.   Been a football fan for more than 50 years and this season was one of the most enjoyable I've ever expereinced.   I suspect it's the same for many of you.   Nothing that happened yesterday changes anything for me.   I've been referencing the expression we're playing with House Money for months and that's the way I feel.    We had everything to gain and nothing to lose.    I kept posting about letting the young players play and learn on the job,  even if it meant some losses.    We did that and we will be a better team for it.    I'm glad we didn't trade for all the big name players around the trade deadline.    I'm not expecting a major trade this off-season either.    Not for Antonio Brown or LeVeon Bell or anyone else.     We might move up or down in the draft to get who we want,  but that's standard for Ballard.    But he's not trading for an expensive player.    Not happening.

 

I'm probably forgetting some things...   over looking some things.    Perhaps what you respond with will trigger some other thoughts.   But I welcome hearing from you.    Even if you want to tell me that I'm full of...   well...   you know.     Bring it!     The 2019 off-season has begun!    Let the fun begin!!

 

 

 24 hours of yapping, finger pointing, and goofy reactions and analysis, 

The Calm after the storm. 50 years and Bo knows some football.

 Hope my pov isn't a curse.  

#1,2,3,4,5   check
#6 there is no sense having any of our 3rd tier LB's being out there next season.
 Kinda doubt they go rd 1-2  there so...  a vet
And if they grade a FA high enough for our front 4, i say he recruits, bids high.
#7  We got the young guys out there for experience more than my wildest imagination. This was my vision and hopes for this season. WOW! Nothing better than a Roster full of wild, intelligent, highly motivated, mad dogs on our football field. Yes, a great season.
 I know they are going to lock arms and have a he**uva off season. 
 

 At your age you probably are forgetting something!   I'm right there too.
I hope we are here spewing (like verbage - not hurling) for all of the 2019 season. Go  
 

[LockeDown]

I agree 100% with NCF. Can’t wait for Ballard’s end of season PResser.  It should give us a real clue what our commander in chief thinks.

[AZColt11]

1.  I would have to agree.  The L is not surprising, but it did seem the Colts would at least make it interesting.  Just ran into a buzz saw in the Chiefs and didn't play well at the wrong time.

 

2.  Mostly agreed.  Thought there were some things that could have been done, but clearly both sides of the line got whipped and it showed.  Still upbeat on the future though.

 

3.  I don't know if they took it away from us so much as they just ran the score up so quickly that it sort of took us out of those opportunities.

 

4.  I'm not down on Frank at all.  He clearly got outcoached, but look who he got outcoached by.  Andy Reid has been a HC for decades now.  Reich is just cutting his HC teeth.  No surprise there.  I'm also glad Reich is the HC.  He had a fine season by any measure.  Just not a good day at the office yesterday.  He'll learn from it.

 

5.  IDK either but I agree.  Perhaps it was scheme and Bob Sutton is a good one.  He hasn't had much to work with and Berry has been hurt a bunch, but he drew up the right plan yesterday.  This Colts offense was doing pretty well and they put all kinds of pressure on Luck.  Some of that HAS to be scheme I would think as Andy looked indecisive often.  Still, Andy will be fine IMHO.

 

6.  I am not sure either, but I almost think it has to.  Luck is entering the mid-point in his career.  You never know how much time he has left as he has already sustained pretty severe injuries.  I didn't think Ballard would go big prior to this season, but now that he has a team that can contend, or at least is much closer now, I wouldn't be a bit surprised if he made a big splash.  Antonio Brown or LeVeon Bell?  I dunno, but I will be mildly surprised now if he doesn't bring in at least 1 big name to the squad.

 

7.  Indeed it was enjoyable after week 6, and I had a great time watching this team essentially overachieve.  They will not have this luxury heading into next season though.  But they were pretty much playing without much to lose.  More will be expected next year and some of those road games look awfully difficult.  I just hope next year is as fun as this one was.

[coltfaninnewyork]

We are only going to get better that much I know .Im not concerned with who we  might lose to ,or how hard schedule is .We are going to be elite. just watch .

[threeflight]

Remember the Colts HAVE to spend their salary cap money either this coming year or the next.

 

They have something like $100 M to spend. 

 

Who on the Colts is worth spending $100 M on besides a select few?

 

So I think those saying CB doesn't spend the money this coming off season on players like Bell or AB might be in for a surprise.  Especially considering how close we are now.

[boo2202]

1 hour ago, NewColtsFan said:

 

So, everyone has been starting a thread to share their viewpoint...    I was mostly (but not entirely quiet yesterday)   But it feels like I should offer my two cents now...     those of you who are not fans/friends of mine,  well,  here is your chance to rip me.     Take your best shot.   Here we go....

 

 

1.   Not surprised we lost,  but WAS surprised the game was so lopsided.    But it was from the very first play/series.

 

2.   In my judgement we lost badly and the "game plan" looked so poor basically because we got whipped badly at the LOS on both sides of the ball.   Their D-line outplayed our O-line.    Their O-line had their way with our D-line.    When you lose the battle at the line of scrimmage,  there aren't many game plans that succeed.  I think all the comments about what "a terrible game plan" are badly overstated.     Lose the Line of Scrimmage,  lose the game.    I don't know WHY we got beat so badly there,  but we clearly did.   Reich's comment about being outcoached and outplayed were the exact right things to say.   You don't throw any one,  or any group under the bus.   But inside the franchise,  there ARE answers to be found.   The coaches WILL KNOW what happened.    So will Chris Ballard. 

 

3.   I don't believe we gave up on the run too early as many here do.    I believe the Chiefs took the run away from us.   There's a difference.  When you can't win with your bread and butter,  then you become one dimensional and easier to defend and defeat.

 

4.   I'm not the least bit down on Frank Reich and can't understand why many here have lost faith in him over one loss.    After such an incredible season,  you jump ship over one game?     Sorry,  but that says much more about you than it does about him.   And what it says is not good.    If you're one who wonders if we can do better at the HC position,  then I hope you're cooling off after blowing off some steam for a day.    Frank Reich coached a not very good team and got every last ounce of talent out of them.    Most coaches would not have turned this team into 10-6 and a playoff win in their first year.    Major props to Frank.    Glad he's our coach.

 

5.   I don't know why,  but Luck was dreadful yesterday.    Seriously dreadful.   I think his first 3 or 4 passes were either batted down at the line of scrimmage,  or batted down by LB's or DB's...      and it looked like he lost a LOT off his fast ball.    Was it weather related?    Don't know?    Was his arm tired after a long season?    Don't know?     But he was clearly off his game.  He looked like the Andrew from the first 6 weeks of the season.   I'm still hopeful that after an off-season of rest and rebuilding we will see an even BETTER Andrew Luck in 2019.     His arm got stronger and better during the season.   Should be even better next season.

 

6.   Still curious if the success of this season will accelerate Ballard's 3-year plan of rebuilding?    It might,  but I have no gut instinct for it.    I think there are arguments both for and against it.    Ballard and Reich will probably have an end of the season meeting with the media tomorrow.   Really looking forward to hearing/reading what they have to say.  If not tomorrow, then Tuesday or Wednesday.   Would recommend everyone pay close attention to it.    Both are pretty transparent if you kow how to read between the lines.

 

7.   Been a football fan for more than 50 years and this season was one of the most enjoyable I've ever expereinced.   I suspect it's the same for many of you.   Nothing that happened yesterday changes anything for me.   I've been referencing the expression we're playing with House Money for months and that's the way I feel.    We had everything to gain and nothing to lose.    I kept posting about letting the young players play and learn on the job,  even if it meant some losses.    We did that and we will be a better team for it.    I'm glad we didn't trade for all the big name players around the trade deadline.    I'm not expecting a major trade this off-season either.    Not for Antonio Brown or LeVeon Bell or anyone else.     We might move up or down in the draft to get who we want,  but that's standard for Ballard.    But he's not trading for an expensive player.    Not happening.

 

I'm probably forgetting some things...   over looking some things.    Perhaps what you respond with will trigger some other thoughts.   But I welcome hearing from you.    Even if you want to tell me that I'm full of...   well...   you know.     Bring it!     The 2019 off-season has begun!    Let the fun begin!!

 

#7 at sometime we need to sign a game changer. We can’t keep sitting on 120 mill and wait for each draft class to develop. It’s almost impossible to repeat this past draft class. We need to be aggressive but smart with what we do. After watching most of these divisional rounds one thing is apparent, great teams have multiple game changers. We’ve got a couple but more are needed to compete with the upper echelon teams.

[threeflight]

11 minutes ago, boo2202 said:

#7 at sometime we need to sign a game changer. We can’t keep sitting on 120 mill and wait for each draft class to develop. It’s almost impossible to repeat this past draft class. We need to be aggressive but smart with what we do. After watching most of these divisional rounds one thing is apparent, great teams have multiple game changers. We’ve got a couple but more are needed to compete with the upper echelon teams.

Exactly.

 

Saints have Brees, Thomas, Kamara, and others.

Pats have..well we know who they have.

Chiefs have Mahomes, Kelce, had Hunt, and their great wr's.

Rams have so many weapons.

 

We have....Luck (when he is playing well) and.....Hilton???

 

Bell and AB would make us SB favs imo.  The goal of this is to win the SB right?  So we get a good 2-3 years out of each and that allows us time for Lucks prime to win SBs now AND grow some youngsters via the draft.  Those that say no Bell or no AB because of.....reasons......not really sure why.  WE CAN AFFORD IT.

 

I would take both of them in a heartbeat.  And the thing is you can get them both for a total of maybe a second and a third IN TOTAL.

 

We aren't playing catholic choir boys on our team here.  We are playing grown men NFL players.  

And as I said, we HAVE to spend this salary cap money.  I would rather pay guys like Bell and AB who are true stars then overpay some of our own just to meet the salary cap.

[Lucky Colts Fan]

3 minutes ago, threeflight said:

Bell and AB would make us SB favs imo.  The goal of this is to win the SB right?  So we get a god 2-3 years out of each and that allows us time for Lucks prime to win SBs now AND grow some youngsters via the draft.  Those that say no Bell or no AB because of.....reasons......not really sure why.

 

I would take both of them in a heartbeat.  And the thing is you can get them both for a total of maybe a second and a third IN TOTAL.

 

We aren't playing catholic choir boys on our team here.  We are playing grown men NFL players.

 

So you want to buy a locker room.

 

Gosh.

 

Why aren't you the GM for the Colts?

[threeflight]

2 minutes ago, Lucky Colts Fan said:

 

So you want to buy a locker room.

 

Gosh.

 

Why aren't you the GM for the Colts?

I don't think supplying a roster with arguably the two best players in the NFL at their positions is buying a locker room.

 

We have the money.

We have to spend the money.

 

We are a good team now.

 

Adding them makes us much much better.

 

Luck is not getting any younger.

To not even attempt to bring these two guys in is imo doing a big disservice to the team.  Guys like Bell and AB don't grow on trees.

 

So tired of this "you can't bring in FA's they will disrupt team chemistry" mantra so many here seem to have.  These are grown men.  Trust me Luck would welcome both with open arms.

[Restinpeacesweetchloe]

You want their attitudes to spill into the young players? At any second they get mad and don’t get their way they could blow up a great team by walking out. Ok then.

[richard pallo]

Nice analysis NCF.  I agree with everything you said for the most part.  Although I do think we gave up on the run game early.  I think the pass game is our bread and butter.  And Reich went to it almost exclusively when we fell well behind.  The game plan didn't really feature the run game at all IMO.  Which surprised me actually.  I'm not expecting much from Ballard in his post season wrap up.  He will praise the coaches and players for this years success and will not tip his hand on how he plans to approach the off season.  He will say he needs time to evaluate the roster before he has any idea on how to proceed.  In effect he needs more time.    He certainly can't mention potential FA's he's interested in but will most likely hint at leaving the door open for anything.  Ballard has made trades both years he's been with us.  Picks and players.  I'm expecting the same this year and I think there is a higher probability he will try to bring in a playmaker or two if he can.  This years success has changed the timetable and most likely his thinking on when to start using all of his assets.  He knows we are SB contenders next year.  So does Mr. Irsay and the fans.  Mr. Irsay pretty much hinted at some major additions himself.   I don't know what Ballard is going to do but I expect he's going to try and plug a few holes with a playmaker or two to try and elevate this team for a serious run next year. 

[boo2202]

14 minutes ago, Lucky Colts Fan said:

 

So you want to buy a locker room.

 

Gosh.

 

Why aren't you the GM for the Colts?

Don’t buy a locker room but supplement it with a few players that can actually make plays. Luck needs more weapons on the outside. Mack while has been good he’s inconsistent. Defense wise we need guys that can get after qb consistently. Maybe Lewis or kemoko develop but what if it turns into another bashan case. All depends on who’s available and price. If Demarcus lawerence or Clowney are there pony up. We’re not far off. We can’t be scared to take chances. Look at rams, they’ve got a intovated coach that knows how to use his weapons. Cooks acquired woods acquired suh acquired peters acquired talib acquired. I think frank is a strong enough coach to handle a few different personalities.

[IndyD4U]

Afterthoughts:

1) We need WR help in a big way. 

 

2) We need an explosive difference maker on the edge. 

 

3) We need more OL and DL depth. 

 

4) Super proud of this team. I really feel like we're building something special. 

[NewEra]

NCF, always appreciate your posts. I agree sir and can't wait to get this party started. The way this season unfolded with the eventual loss will be a huge huge learning lesson. We went from 1-5 to end 10-6, to getting a playoff win to a rude awakening. That's some major experience and a way to light a fire under our players who are hungry. 

[threeflight]

12 minutes ago, boo2202 said:

Don’t buy a locker room but supplement it with a few players that can actually make plays. Luck needs more weapons on the outside. Mack while has been good he’s inconsistent. Defense wise we need guys that can get after qb consistently. Maybe Lewis or kemoko develop but what if it turns into another bashan case. All depends on who’s available and price. If Demarcus lawerence or Clowney are there pony up. We’re not far off. We can’t be scared to take chances. Look at rams, they’ve got a intovated coach that knows how to use his weapons. Cooks acquired woods acquired suh acquired peters acquired talib acquired. I think frank is a strong enough coach to handle a few different personalities.

This.

 

The Rams acquired all kinds of talented but not choir boy players.

 

Last I looked they are doing just fine.

 

Most players are not looking to rock the boat, especially when you win.

 

It seems like many here want these guys to attend Sunday School and be NFL players.

[Lucky Colts Fan]

15 minutes ago, threeflight said:

Trust me

 

I trust Ballard.

 

I don't trust you.

 

I think this team would implode before training camp if you were in charge. 

[dw49]

1 hour ago, NewColtsFan said:

 

So, everyone has been starting a thread to share their viewpoint...    I was mostly (but not entirely quiet yesterday)   But it feels like I should offer my two cents now...     those of you who are not fans/friends of mine,  well,  here is your chance to rip me.     Take your best shot.   Here we go....

 

 

1.   Not surprised we lost,  but WAS surprised the game was so lopsided.    But it was from the very first play/series.

 

2.   In my judgement we lost badly and the "game plan" looked so poor basically because we got whipped badly at the LOS on both sides of the ball.   Their D-line outplayed our O-line.    Their O-line had their way with our D-line.    When you lose the battle at the line of scrimmage,  there aren't many game plans that succeed.  I think all the comments about what "a terrible game plan" are badly overstated.     Lose the Line of Scrimmage,  lose the game.    I don't know WHY we got beat so badly there,  but we clearly did.   Reich's comment about being outcoached and outplayed were the exact right things to say.   You don't throw any one,  or any group under the bus.   But inside the franchise,  there ARE answers to be found.   The coaches WILL KNOW what happened.    So will Chris Ballard. 

 

3.   I don't believe we gave up on the run too early as many here do.    I believe the Chiefs took the run away from us.   There's a difference.  When you can't win with your bread and butter,  then you become one dimensional and easier to defend and defeat.

 

4.   I'm not the least bit down on Frank Reich and can't understand why many here have lost faith in him over one loss.    After such an incredible season,  you jump ship over one game?     Sorry,  but that says much more about you than it does about him.   And what it says is not good.    If you're one who wonders if we can do better at the HC position,  then I hope you're cooling off after blowing off some steam for a day.    Frank Reich coached a not very good team and got every last ounce of talent out of them.    Most coaches would not have turned this team into 10-6 and a playoff win in their first year.    Major props to Frank.    Glad he's our coach.

 

5.   I don't know why,  but Luck was dreadful yesterday.    Seriously dreadful.   I think his first 3 or 4 passes were either batted down at the line of scrimmage,  or batted down by LB's or DB's...      and it looked like he lost a LOT off his fast ball.    Was it weather related?    Don't know?    Was his arm tired after a long season?    Don't know?     But he was clearly off his game.  He looked like the Andrew from the first 6 weeks of the season.   I'm still hopeful that after an off-season of rest and rebuilding we will see an even BETTER Andrew Luck in 2019.     His arm got stronger and better during the season.   Should be even better next season.

 

6.   Still curious if the success of this season will accelerate Ballard's 3-year plan of rebuilding?    It might,  but I have no gut instinct for it.    I think there are arguments both for and against it.    Ballard and Reich will probably have an end of the season meeting with the media tomorrow.   Really looking forward to hearing/reading what they have to say.  If not tomorrow, then Tuesday or Wednesday.   Would recommend everyone pay close attention to it.    Both are pretty transparent if you kow how to read between the lines.

 

7.   Been a football fan for more than 50 years and this season was one of the most enjoyable I've ever expereinced.   I suspect it's the same for many of you.   Nothing that happened yesterday changes anything for me.   I've been referencing the expression we're playing with House Money for months and that's the way I feel.    We had everything to gain and nothing to lose.    I kept posting about letting the young players play and learn on the job,  even if it meant some losses.    We did that and we will be a better team for it.    I'm glad we didn't trade for all the big name players around the trade deadline.    I'm not expecting a major trade this off-season either.    Not for Antonio Brown or LeVeon Bell or anyone else.     We might move up or down in the draft to get who we want,  but that's standard for Ballard.    But he's not trading for an expensive player.    Not happening.

 

I'm probably forgetting some things...   over looking some things.    Perhaps what you respond with will trigger some other thoughts.   But I welcome hearing from you.    Even if you want to tell me that I'm full of...   well...   you know.     Bring it!     The 2019 off-season has begun!    Let the fun begin!!

 

 

 

It almost looked like our players had the wrong footgear on and couldn't get any leverage ,while the Chiefs had no problems with the field. Not saying that was the case , just saying I can't believe both our lines would get dominated like they did. 

 

As far as Reich's play calling .. I agree it's a non issue. When you have maybe only 2 players that played well (Moore + Ingram ) , what's the difference what he called ? 

 

As  far as Luck , I agree completely. He looked like he did in the 2nd half of the Tenn game. Let's hope it was more of an issue of a slippery ball and the tough conditions ? 

 

So I pretty much agree with you and I too enjoyed this year much  as any in the 59 years I've been watching football. 

[jimmy g]

The Colts were preseason picks to be #32, and made it to 6th seed- playing At the rested #1 team in the snow.  The first quarter saw passes dropped and others blocked that would have kept drives alive and possibly changed the momentum. And two starting afeties were out. 

 

We got outmanned/outplayed by a better, and faster,  team.  It happens. Disappointing,  yes. But every playoff team loses their last game except the Super Bowl Winner.  We all knew we weren't the Super Bowl Champs THIS Year.  Reich and Ballard are the Real Deal.  We have much to be grateful for, after last year.  GO COLTS! I BELIEVE IN THIS TEAM!!!

[2006Coltsbestever]

Great stuff NCF! I have been a Colts fan since 1984, all 35 seasons here in Indy and after a lot of thought I rank this season as my 4th most enjoyable. 4 out of 35 is not bad right? My list would be:

1. 2006 - Of course, we won the SB and won at Baltimore/Lewis/Reed and beat the Pats/Brady/BB to get there. Whipped the Bears to get the 

 

2. 1995 - Made the AFC Championship Game, won at KC in the Divisional Round to get there. The Harbaugh magic was fun!

 

3. 2004 - We had one of the best Offenses of all-time. Peyton's 49 TD season. Very fun to watch! Went 12-4 and made the Divisional Round like this season stomping Denver on Wildcard weekend.

 

4. 2018 - This one, go from 1-5 to 10-6. Won at Houston on Wildcard weekend to make the Divisional Round. We proved everyone wrong how good we can be and regained AFC South supremacy by winning at Houston in the Playoffs. After missing a full season, watching Luck tear Defenses apart with 39 TD's and 4500 Yards was a joy. Watching our young O.Line and young Defense play well was a true joy as well. It didn't end well as we lost at KC but having said that we still had our chances in that game as bad as we played. We were only down 24-13 with plenty of time left in the game at one point. I really like Frank Reich too. His system fits Luck perfectly.

[shasta519]

Agree with your points. I also don't the initial game plan was that bad...but a combo of some mistakes and poor defense forced their hands. Besides, the Colts were always going to have to be able to score in this game. 

 

[NewColtsFan]

57 minutes ago, boo2202 said:

#7 at sometime we need to sign a game changer. We can’t keep sitting on 120 mill and wait for each draft class to develop. It’s almost impossible to repeat this past draft class. We need to be aggressive but smart with what we do. After watching most of these divisional rounds one thing is apparent, great teams have multiple game changers. We’ve got a couple but more are needed to compete with the upper echelon teams.

 

Good post.    And I agree mostly with your thoughts.

 

And we won't keep sitting on $120 Mill.    At worst,  one more year.    The day Ballard made his deal with the Jets to trade down and get three 2nd round picks,  he said to the cameras and microphones that the limited and targeted spending in free agent was NOT going to be a perminent thing.   It's a short time thing.    So, at worst,  it's limited and targeted for one more year.   But I think we will spend at least $10 Mill-plus on a free agent WR.     There are a number we can buy.  I'm convinced Ballard will buy one of them.    We will all know by the end of the first week of free agency.    Those type of contracts go out the first week of FA.    Mid-March.    I'll be disappointed if we don't.

 

[Restinpeacesweetchloe]

25 minutes ago, threeflight said:

This.

 

The Rams acquired all kinds of talented but not choir boy players.

 

Last I looked they are doing just fine.

 

Most players are not looking to rock the boat, especially when you win.

 

It seems like many here want these guys to attend Sunday School and be NFL players.

That’s is not what anyone is saying. You can find stars that aren’t cancers and can blow up your locker room in two seconds. The last thing I want to see is one of these player  yelling at Luck because of a missed play or they didn’t get the ball.

[horseshoecrabs]

At this point we will get better, the foundation, and the coaching philosophy has been instilled. We will continue to get better with next year's draft picks and get the right kind of Fa's that fit into our system. This is a major concern in FA's that we get players with the right mindset, that will fit into our young core group of players. We need all the guys on the same page, with the mindset that it's all about the team, not being look at me, I'm the star. 

[throwing BBZ]

13 hours ago, threeflight said:

I don't think supplying a roster with arguably the two best players in the NFL at their positions is buying a locker room.

 

We have the money.

We have to spend the money.

 

We are a good team now.

 

Adding them makes us much much better.

 

Luck is not getting any younger.

To not even attempt to bring these two guys in is imo doing a big disservice to the team.  Guys like Bell and AB don't grow on trees.

 

So tired of this "you can't bring in FA's they will disrupt team chemistry" mantra so many here seem to have.  These are grown men.  Trust me Luck would welcome both with open arms.

 

 You can't bring in free agents ____ ___ that screw up the locker room.
That is your GM speaking. How do you not get this? Do you follow football?
 Have a clue what is going on in Pitt? This season proved Bell is a good runner behind an excellent line. Brown quit on his team. Send that selfish SB to Siberia NOT our winning Team culture. Good grief!
 Ballard will push as much of the Cap forward in 2020 as is allowed to resign our players, that will be about at Min $20M.

  No doubt he will be very aggressive for high end guys he wants here this off season.  And a WR at $10M per? Our own FA $15-20M, maybe considerably more. Our 1st 4 draft picks $6M.
 Add 2-3 mid range vets for depth $6-8M.  Extend Ebron? Moore? Castonzo?
The Cap will go Fast.
 Irsay & Ballard want the same thing. Winning and competing year after year. 

[Superman]

15 hours ago, threeflight said:

Remember the Colts HAVE to spend their salary cap money either this coming year or the next.

 

 

No they don't.

[Superman]

16 hours ago, NewColtsFan said:

5.   I don't know why,  but Luck was dreadful yesterday.    Seriously dreadful.   I think his first 3 or 4 passes were either batted down at the line of scrimmage,  or batted down by LB's or DB's...      and it looked like he lost a LOT off his fast ball.    Was it weather related?    Don't know?    Was his arm tired after a long season?    Don't know?     But he was clearly off his game.  He looked like the Andrew from the first 6 weeks of the season.   I'm still hopeful that after an off-season of rest and rebuilding we will see an even BETTER Andrew Luck in 2019.     His arm got stronger and better during the season.   Should be even better next season.

 

 

Luck didn't play well, but I don't think there's anything to it. I don't blame him for the batted balls; the OL was getting whupped, lots of push up the middle, even when they didn't break through. He could have pumped on a few of those, but even on a couple where he did pump, it didn't matter.

 

The receivers dropped a few balls, also. 

 

I just think the Chiefs dominated our offense in every phase. When they didn't get pressure, they had the receivers plastered. When they didn't stuff the run, it's because we got called for holding (and at least one of those was cheap). And we didn't win any 50/50 plays.

 

I also wonder why Reich thinks we need to get a first down before we can go no-huddle... I don't get that thinking, and I'm hoping Michelle Tafoya misunderstood him, or he misunderstood her question. 

[aaron11]

8 minutes ago, Superman said:

 

No they don't.

 

technically they can not spend it, but they still lose it anyway after 2020 right?  why would they do that?

[Superman]

Just now, aaron11 said:

 

technically they can not spend it, but they still lose it anyway after 2020 right?  why would they do that?

 

That's a different conversation. The point is that they don't have to spend any particular amount signing players.

 

Also, they could easily hit the salary floor by extending their own guys early. 

 

This notion that the Colts have to go on a spending spree in the next two seasons is false and has been thoroughly debunked.

[Superman]

14 hours ago, shastamasta said:

Agree with your points. I also don't the initial game plan was that bad...but a combo of some mistakes and poor defense forced their hands. Besides, the Colts were always going to have to be able to score in this game. 

 

 

I don't know whether the initial game plan was bad; I get the feeling we didn't get to see the initial game plan, seeing as how we couldn't sustain a drive until we were in hurry up. 

 

My problem is we didn't make proper adjustments until that hurry up drive. We did nothing to spark the offense, to jump start a possession, and took no chances to exploit the weakness of KC's defense. It felt like we were waiting for the game to come to us, meanwhile the Chiefs were dominating every phase.

[aaron11]

Just now, Superman said:

 

That's a different conversation. The point is that they don't have to spend any particular amount signing players.

 

Also, they could easily hit the salary floor by extending their own guys early. 

 

This notion that the Colts have to go on a spending spree in the next two seasons is false and has been thoroughly debunked.

 

i see what you are saying.  i think it would make  sense to spend now while we can, since we will have players of our own to extend in the next 4 year period

[John Waylon]

1 minute ago, Superman said:

 

I don't know whether the initial game plan was bad; I get the feeling we didn't get to see the initial game plan, seeing as how we couldn't sustain a drive until we were in hurry up. 

 

My problem is we didn't make proper adjustments until that hurry up drive. We did nothing to spark the offense, to jump start a possession, and took no chances to exploit the weakness of KC's defense. It felt like we were waiting for the game to come to us, meanwhile the Chiefs were dominating every phase.

 

I thought it felt scripted. Super scripted. Like they scripted several plays in a row to run, and when we started going 3 and out repeatedly they just stuck to the script rather than reacting to the situation. 

 

I dunno. It was weird. 

[Superman]

Just now, aaron11 said:

 

i see what you are saying.  i think it would make  sense to spend now while we can, since we will have players of our own to extend in the next 4 year period

 

The Colts have no salary cap issues to be concerned with. They'll be able to keep their young core together, and add outside free agents when they get ready to. 

 

But everyone has been repeating "$120m cap space!" for months, and I think the expectation is growing that the Colts will be spending like a drunken sailor this offseason, but that's probably not going to be Ballard's approach. Everything he's said indicates that he's not interested in building his roster in free agency. The same expectation was held last offseason, and by the second week in March people were revolting because Ballard basically sat out of free agency.

 

I'm not ruling out the possibility that he signs one or two big money guys this offseason. I'm just saying don't expect it, especially looking at the projected WR class, and knowing that pass rushers never hit the market. 

[Superman]

3 minutes ago, John Waylon said:

 

I thought it felt scripted. Super scripted. Like they scripted several plays in a row to run, and when we started going 3 and out repeatedly they just stuck to the script rather than reacting to the situation. 

 

I dunno. It was weird. 

 

I think they wanted to slow the game down, which I thought was the best chance to win. The Chiefs haven't been a good run defense, and our rushing attack has been capable of dominating games. But that's usually within the rhythm of the game, not something we've been able to force from the opening drive.

 

I also think some of the blocking schemes were either poorly executed or ill-timed, and I don't know who should take responsibility for that. Those backside tackles by Dee Ford were on plays where he was completely unblocked, and every time it happened I was hoping for a read option keep. We're letting the edge go unblocked on inside runs, and the back is waiting for a hole, so the play doesn't stand a chance.

[dodsworth]

9 minutes ago, Superman said:

 

 

Chiefs were dominating every phase.

Bingo, they really came to play. I believe fatigue played a big role in

 the downfall of the Colts and Chargers. Having a bye raises the odds of going to the SB by being the 

better rested team. 

 

Their defense didn't look like a 31st

ranked unit.

 

[Barry Sears]

Thanks to the OP for a great breakdown.

 

If luck had connected on a few of those passes, or on some of the ones batted down, then it may have been a different game or outcome.

 

We also whiffed on some opportunities to get back into the game.

 

Several reasons why we lost, but I think the Chiefs just simply played better and their defense was outstanding.

 

Nothing to be ashamed of...we build on this experience and come back with a fury in 2019.

 

Going to be another exciting off season!

[gspdx]

Nice post NCF.  I would agree with everything you said.  I am a little concerned about Luck.  Hope it's just a tired arm.  

 

I agree about being dominated on both sides of the line.  Not too surprising from the defense but I was surprised about the o-line.  

 

I do agree with some posts that we need to pick up some difference makers.  Not sure Brown and Bell are the guys but I think we all know there are still some gaps on this roster.  But after the performance this year I wouldn't mind seeing a team that can take it all the way next year. I wouldn't be so concerned about a running back.  More interested in a WR, LB, and disrupting pass rusher.

 

All in all much more than I expected this year.  I was one who thought 8-8 would be an accomplishment.

[DaveA1102]

17 hours ago, NewColtsFan said:

7.   Been a football fan for more than 50 years and this season was one of the most enjoyable I've ever expereinced.   I suspect it's the same for many of you.   Nothing that happened yesterday changes anything for me.