SB Nation User Blog: bamock

A Dichotomy: The Colts Offense and Defense

bamock — Fri, 04 Dec 2009 21:16:33 -0000

note: I put this up as a response in another thread but thought I would make it into a fan post in case people wished to discuss it. IE - I have no desire or intent to hijack someone else's well thought out and well-written thread.

Something that has proved true this season should concern the rest of the NFL a great deal when facing the Colts. The offense, early in a game, or with the lead is human. With a lead we tend to be more conservative, which keeps games closer than they would be and keeps us from running up scores like the Patriots.

When we lead, however, the defense tends to be vicious.

via images2.wikia.nocookie.net

The pass rush is let loose and opposing offenses are set up to make mistakes more often, we start forcing turnovers.

via www.coltsgab.com

This makes it very difficult for teams to come back against the Colts.

So… with a lead, the defense is dangerous, opposing offenses typically are forced to make risky plays that lead to turnovers, and coming back is extremely difficult.

When the Colts are behind, the defense tends to struggle more. The opposing offense can typically set the pace of the game, attempt to be balanced and keep the defense on its heels.

Now, I know what you’re thinking, "that used to be the case bamock but not anymore." To a degree, you would be right for saying so.

Since Coyer has taken over and put a few wrinkles in the Dungy-2 defense, we are far more resilient and capable of making adjustments in scheme or picking up our play defensively to keep games "close enough" to be in striking distance.

This brings me to the offense from behind, which should be a scary thing for any team in the NFL who has to play a game against the Colts. The margin of "close enough" or "in striking distance" is wider for the Colts than any other team in the NFL… HANDS DOWN and it isn’t even close.

When we’re playing from behind the offense is sharper, plays harder, and finds inventive ways to score points by putting together long (yards) 2 min. scoring drives that close the gap or result in 4th quarter comebacks that have not been rivaled in NFL history.

via nimg.sulekha.com

If you’re up 14 on the Colts, particularly late in a game, you had better watch out. That is when Manning and Company have calculated and weighed your defensive scheme and plan and will start to move the ball.

Add to this the pace of the Colts no-huddle offense, a pace that is faster than any other team in the NFL... HANDS DOWN and it isn't even close, and it's no surprise that opponents tend to be fatigued and incapable of stepping up when the game is on the line.

via images.chron.com

So… if you’re behind, you’re in real trouble… the defense will start to eat you alive with its pass rush and it will be really difficult to find balance or true success moving the ball.

If you’re ahead… WATCH OUT, because the offense has seen what you’re doing defensively long enough that Moore, Manning, and Co. will start moving the ball.

Either way, the Colts play on momentum, and the momentum comes from one side of the ball no matter the circumstances on the scoreboard. Once that momentum swings, stopping Indy is insanely difficult.

via cache.daylife.com

No team, none, zero, in the NFL wants to play the Colts. Not the Saints, not the Titans, not the Jaguars, and not the Patriots (Vikings either).

This team is balanced, and the balance usually results in relatively close games. But it is this specific synergy that makes it harder for an opponent to pull out a victory against Indianapolis than it is when they face any other team in the NFL.

Too Long To Wait For More Colts Football? My Gift To You

bamock — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 05:32:34 -0000

Love Me Some Colts!

If that video doesn't get you reinvigorated and ready for some Colts football, check your pulse. I know this man no longer plays for us, but there is one who does. So, for those of you who are disappointed, I offer up exhibit B.

Who Wants Some of This?

By the way, Patriots, I am salivating for you. I am already thinking about you. I can't help myself. I want you. I look forward to it. Bring your big boy pants. Win or lose, it's time to line up for a nice solid hit to the face.

GO COLTS!

Mike Hart Promoted, Simpson Released

bamock — Sun, 04 Oct 2009 07:22:22 -0000

The National Football Post has announced that the Colts have released backup RB and KR Chad Simpson and promoted Mike Hart from the practice squad.

Anyone who has followed the two running backs in their young career probably knows that Hart showed a great deal more promise as a running back than Simpson. However, Hart suffered a season ending knee injury against Baltimore last year, after making probably the most spectacular two yard run I've ever seen (on 3rd down no less) to get the Colts a first down and keep a drive alive. Although Hart recovered much quicker than expected from knee surgery, he was quickly banged up in preseason, suffering back-to-back ankle injuries that held him out for the beginning of the season and opened the door for Chad Simpson.

In order to maintain his spot on the roster, Simpson had to show that he brought something to the team as a returner. To this point, he has not looked comfortable returning kicks, has been indecisive, and has not even looked fast (his mo). After suffering an abdominal injury against Arizona, and missing practice time this week, he has been released and the door has reopened for Mike Hart. What role Hart will play, if any, in the return game is unknown. Conventional wisdom would suggest that T.J. Rushing will assume full-time returning duties, like he did in 2007. Maybe the Colts have something else up their sleeves.

Welcome back Mike! Chad, we wish you the very best of luck.

My Farewell (Sort Of)

bamock — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 20:05:54 -0000

I wanted to take the time to let you all know that I will not be around as often writing fan posts at Stampede Blue. I have been honored by Eric Hartz at ColtPower.com with the opportunity to serve as one of the sites analysts for the coming season. It's an opportunity I am looking forward to and which I think I will thoroughly enjoy. I do not intend to "not visit" Stampede Blue anymore. I will still lurk, like the information starved Colts junkie I am. Still, I have real life to focus on and two stories a week to publish, which will demand most of my in-depth Colts writing time. (For those interested, the two stories will cover the "Five to Watch" for each upcoming game and "Who Looked Good, Who Didn't" for the preceding game)

I would like to thank BBS for this platform, without which I would likely not have been given an opportunity to write about my favorite team anywhere. I would also like to thank many of you for your support and kind words. I did not write fan posts here for recognition or accolades but you all made me feel very welcome here and some of you even took the time to support me in my effort to become an "official Colts correspondent." Needless to say, the camaraderie has been great and again, BBS helped provide the platform to find it.

I hope to see some of you over on Colt Power from time to time. I do enjoy the conversation and the feedback my stories spark. If there's anything I write for, it's that: seeing other people respond to my humble ideas on the Colts. This is not an attempt to "steal" any of BBS or Stampede Blue's faithful. Frankly, I don't think it would happen (you wouldn't visit another site and stop visiting this one) and I know that BBS supports the other Colts blogs/news sites anyway.

So, thank you again BBS for the opportunity and the platform... congratulations on your upcoming marriage. Thank you to all who supported me, and to some who I know will continue to do so. I look forward to seeing some/many of you on Colt Power from time to time to say hello.

Brett Mock

My Mock Roster Pre-Final Cuts

bamock — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 05:04:38 -0000

This includes the 53 man roster and 8 practice squad positions. As I have no idea who will be getting cut from the other rosters, I can't foresee what will be available at which position that might prompt these choices to change. When I feel it is appropriate I will explain my choices and indicate who may be dropped early in the season, or when someone else on the roster gets healthy.

Quarterback:
Peyton Manning
Curtis Painter

If I were the GM for the Colts, I would keep Painter because we can't afford to lose him by cutting him and we can't afford three roster spots for the back-up to one of the most reliable quarterbacks in the league. I would make a proposal to Jim Sorgi. Sorgi clearly will not be playing regular snaps for any team in the NFL at any point in his career. While he would probably be snatched up by someone who wished to pick his brain for information about the Colts offense, he provides no team with a back-up QB option worthy of retaining long-term. Accordingly, Sorgi stands to lose A LOT if he is cut outright and it would behoove him to consider his long-term future. The front office should offer Sorgi a contract on the team as an Assistant QB Coach, keeping him in the NFL, giving him the opportunity to make a long career at what he does best (clip-board holding, game analyzing, the cerebral aspects of the game). It may be in his best interest to retire before taking on this role, allowing him to come out of retirement, should something terrible happen. Out of the ordinary? You bet. Best option? In my humble opinion, it is.

Running Back:
Joseph Addai
Donald Brown
Mike Hart

Lance Ball is still practice squad eligible, should clear waivers, and provides plenty of protection for our RBs in that role. He MAY be retained for a week or two while Hart fully recovers from his ankle injury. However, I got the feeling that Hart could have played against the Bengals but the front office held him out in order to give him extra time to heal, which would make such a move unnecessary. Management will look closely at the status of his injury this weekend before making a final call but this is the move I'd make. Even if it was a risk to start the season.

Wide Receiver:
Reggie Wayne
Anthony Gonzalez
Austin Collie
Pierre Garcon

I believe Taj Smith will be on the roster but I don't think it will be until Tom Santi gets healthy or is moved to the IR. As soon as Santi returns, Robinson is released and Smith is activated from the practice squad. If Santi moves to the IR, same thing. Otherwise, he waits.

Tight End:
Dallas Clark
Jacob Tamme
Tom Santi
Gijon Robinson*

Let's face it, Robinson is a great guy and works hard but does not have the tools to be what we're looking for in a TE. Santi is the superior player in all aspects of the game and simply needs to get and stay healthy to give us the ultimate TE rotation available. Santi will likely be out to start the season, however, and while Robinson has not been impressive blocking in games this preseason, he is clearly superior to Tamme at this point (in that role). I would retain him, predict he will be retained, until Santi returns.

Offensive Line:
Tony Ugoh
Charlie Johnson
Ryan Lilja
Jamey Richard
Kyle DeVan
Jeff Saturday
Mike Pollak
Daniel Federkeil
Ryan Diem

This roster would provide you with the ultimate depth and talent based on preseason play. All four of the back-ups can play on the inside of the line. Ugoh can back-up LT. Federkeil and Ugoh can back up RT. In terms of efficiency at the position, and retaining only the best players available from preseason play, this is as good as it gets. The offensive line is ripe for potential movement via the waiver wire. Richard and Federkeil would be the first two in line to be released should the Colts acquire someone new.

Safety:
Bob Sanders
Antoine Bethea
Melvin Bullitt
Jamie Silva
Matt Giordano

Matt Giordano's spot on the roster could be in jeopardy upon the healthy return of the Predator. I could even see him not making the roster, but it would seem that a fairly decent argument could be made that he is needed because Sanders' health is so tenuous and he is a solid special teams contributor. Keep in mind, however, that Marlin Jackson is capable of moving over to the S position if needed in an emergency.

Cornerback:
Kelvin Hayden
Marlin Jackson
Tim Jennings
Jerraud Powers
Jacob Lacey

I am sorry folks but Jacob Lacey has played his way onto the roster in my eyes. Coyer requires more man-to-man coverage assignments than the Colts used under Dungy/Meeks. The best man-to-man coverage defensive back so far has been Jacob Lacey. Jerraud Powers would likely be second in that department. Two young CBs, one a surprising undrafted free agent, doesn't seem like too much of a reach to me.

Linebacker:
Clint Session
Gary Brackett
Philip Wheeler
Tyjuan Hagler
Jordan Senn
Ramon Humber

Mike Tauiliili has shown flashes of greatness over the preseason. It's very difficult for me to clearly differentiate between Humber and Tauiliili after four games. That said, when it mattered most (last look), it seemed like Humber came to play and he might win the spot. Either way, I hope that the Colts front office agrees with what the rest of us saw so clearly, both of these players are better than Keiaho right now. In fact, Tauiliili could surprise by taking a spot from Senn or Hagler. I keep only one of the two, retaining a bit more experience in the system than two of three rookie back-ups would offer. I wish I had Seward here, as I think he would be the best back-up Mike of the LBs in preseason.

Defensive End:
Dwight Freeney
Robert Mathis
Marcus Howard
Raheem Brock

I would keep the pure DEs to just four. Brock and Freeney start, per last year, Mathis coming in on passing downs. Howard as the back-up pass-rush specialist. I really wish I could have CuJo here, as he would have had a spot on my roster. Alas, he is not so we will just have to move on. Brock and Foster are your two flex options DE/DT.

Defensive Tackle:
Ed Johnson
Adrian Grady
Daniel Muir
Antonio Johnson
Eric Foster
Fili Moala
Terrance Taylor

Terrance Taylor is on this roster only because I think we have the room, while covering all of our other needs. It seems within reason that when Ed Johnson returns, one of our DTs would be in-line for a potential release. The front-runner tentatively would be Daniel Muir. Which means, all of those people who were shocked that I would suggest putting Taylor on the PS have nothing to fear. Still, I would not hesitate to put Taylor on the PS if we wanted to add someone from waivers who could help us out elsewhere. He'd be in the top 3 on my list of players who I would waive and attempt to PS in order to clear roster space for a player on waivers.

Special Teams:
T.J. Rushing
Justin Snow
Pat McAfee
Adam Vinatieri

Practice Squad:
Taj Smith
Mike Tauiliili
Tom Pestock
Jaime Thomas
Steve Justice
Lance Ball
Travis Key
Sam Giguere

I could see Pestock, Key, and Giguere being immediately vulnerable for removal from this list due to waiver acquisitions, replaced by players who are listed in the roster above. Smith, Tauiliili, and Ball top my list of players who could be brought up from the practice squad the quickest to spell replace players who are currently only on the roster due to an injury concern at one of the positions.

I would like to see the Colts address OT through waivers, moving Richard to the PS. I would also like to see the Colts address QB, CB, and LB after players clear waivers to put on the practice squad.

This is my dream world. Thoughts?

Who Looked Good, Who Didn't? Colts v. Bengals

bamock — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 03:21:28 -0000

This edition of Who Looked Good, Who Didn't? will be brief (temporarily). I will edit it later when I have a chance to get a better look at the game (had to watch a live feed of only the first half). As the game does not air again until Saturday on NFL Network, some of my observations may be for naught because final cuts will be made that day.

Who Looked Good?

Safety:

Jamie Silva -

via cache.daylife.com

I cannot point to exact plays for Silva, due to the crappy nature of my feed, and I RARELY look at the stat sheet to determine my opinions about players. However, Silva was credited with 7 tackles, 6 assists, and a sack. HOLY GOD! This kid has really started to come into his own. He's a solid tackler, makes plays all over the field, is one of the best coverage unit players on the team. In short, I'm stoked about Silva's progress. This team is the deepest team in the NFL at safety, and by a pretty comfortable margin. If it came down to Gio v. Silva, keep Silva, no question.

Cornerback:

Jacob Lacey

via www.nationalchamps.net

Lacey continued his strong preseason performance against the Bengals. Whenever someone attempts to throw the ball his way it seems like he's whispering into the ear of his assignment. Very few passes have been completed to his assignment, that I've noticed, and a good chunk of the targets his way have resulted in either break-ups, deflections, or an interception. The kid is fast, rangy, hits hard, and has a great motor. It will be very difficult for me to watch this kid get waived or sit on the practice squad, if that is the case. Oh yeah, 3 tackles, 2 assists, 2 passes defensed, and an interception.

Linebacker:

Ramon Humber -

While I was disappointed with Humber on at least one special teams play, on kick coverage, it seems that he spent much of the game making tackles and stopping plays while much of the defense was focused on the dandelions in right field. It has been a back-and-forth proposition between Humber and Tauiliili for who has been most impressive in a given week. Weeks 1 and 3 belong to Tauiliili. Weeks 2 and 4 belong to Humber. Both have a propensity to make plays on special teams. Both are fast, quick to the ball, and seem like budding young linebackers with a lot of upside. Today it was Humber who recorded 3 tackles and 6 assists.

Defensive Tackle:

Adrian Grady (or Mr. T?)

via media.scout.com

via www.getkempt.com

Okay. I've seen enough. Grady is a player folks. The guy regularly gets penetration, gets push, disrupts running lanes, man-handles offensive linemen, and makes plays. Against third stringers, you say? Okay, point taken. But the thing is, if you know how to play football, if you have the physical abilities to play football, you should be able to play football pretty well against almost any competition. From my naked eye it seems to me that his assets, his talents and skills, are the kind that will be disruptive against anyone. Maybe that won't be the case but from what I've seen, I think the best starting DT rotation on the team would be a paring of Ed Johnson and Adrian Grady. Week One we may have the chance to see Grady start alongside Mookie or Muir. I hope we do. And if he looks strong in that game, I would keep him there without thinking twice. He recorded 1 tackle and 4 assists. (Taylor and Muir were the only other DTs to register assists, 4 between the two of them, none solo)

Offensive Line:

Kyle DeVan (GRRRR!)

via www.everyjoe.com

DeVan finds his way onto this list again. Honestly, I have more confidence in DeVan than any of our other interior offensive lineman. He'd be the number one back-up on my roster for each of the positions. I wouldn't mind seeing him start at RG, if Pollak doesn't cut it. Him or Ugoh at RG. Either way, when he is snapping the ball he has a good command of the line and looks like a young Jeff Saturday out there. When he is playing guard he's constantly sticking with his assignments, has looked solid against the pass, and gets to the second level against the run. What's not to like?

Wide Receiver:

Taj Smith

via cache.daylife.com

So, we finally got to see what all the fuss was about re: Smith during training camp. He ran great routes, displayed great hands, and vacuumed up anything catchable that was thrown his way. He even showed "something" on his kick return opportunity though he would be a project there at best, or so it would seem. If the Colts keep five WRs, Smith is the no-brainer choice. Do they have room? Smith finished the night with 5 receptions for 59 yards and a touchdown.

Tight End:

Jacob Tamme

via 2.bp.blogspot.com

Tamme needs more time to develop as a blocker, as Dallas Clark did when he first came into the league, but he has shown some similarities to Clark as a receiver. No, I'm not saying he is Clark, the second coming of Clark, or anything like that. Clark is a Pro Bowl TE (he will be a Pro Bowler this year barring injury). Tamme is a young TE with a lot of potential, good hands, solid route running, and enough athleticism to create mismatches and yards after the catch. He is a no-brainer to make the team and is clearly one of the better pass-receiving options on the roster. Tamme recorded 4 receptions for 35 yards.

Running Back:

Lance Ball -

Here is a guy who would be a victim if you judged players based solely on a stat sheet. Ball ran faster, harder, and was quicker to holes than Simpson. If it came down to a decision between Ball and Simpson for the final RB spot, I would take Ball without question. That said, I doubt he displaces Hart on the roster but he looked pretty good carrying the ball. Ball finished with 9 carries for 31 yards.

Who Didn't?

Offensive Line:

Jaime Thomas -

Thomas plays guard, so of course there is a bit less lateral movement than there would be if he were on the outside. However, Thomas has stones tied to his feet and was abused multiple times by stunting defensive linemen who would use speed to go to his right or left. All that size and strength will get you no where if you can't keep your hands on your assignment. This made life really difficult for Ugoh, who has enough trouble keeping himself from being the goat.

My Mock Roster 2009

bamock — Sun, 30 Aug 2009 00:33:02 -0000

This roster will include 53 roster spots, PUP players (who I think may start on the PUP), and practice squad players. As I have no idea who will be getting cut from the other rosters, I can't foresee what will be available at which position that might prompt these choices to change. Anyway, after three preseason games I feel like I can make an pretty educated guess at what the roster might look like. When I feel it is appropriate I will explain my choices and indicate who might be replaced by PUP players with a * by their names.

Quarterback:
Peyton Manning
Jim Sorgi

Running Back:
Joseph Addai
Donald Brown
Lance Ball* (Simply not as good as Mike Hart when both players are healthy)

Wide Receiver:
Reggie Wayne
Anthony Gonzalez
Austin Collie
Pierre Garcon
Taj Smith (primarily as a ST gunner)

Tight End:
Dallas Clark
Jacob Tamme
Gijon Robinson* (Has looked pretty bad blocking)

Offensive Line:
Tony Ugoh
Charlie Johnson
Ryan Lilja
Jamey Richard
Kyle DeVan
Jeff Saturday
Mike Pollak
Daniel Federkeil
Ryan Diem

Safety:
Bob Sanders
Antoine Bethea
Melvin Bullitt
Jamie Silva
Matt Giordano

Cornerback:
Kelvin Hayden
Marlin Jackson
Tim Jennings
Jerraud Powers
Jacob Lacey (Faster, better in man coverage, and more upside than Hughes/Coe)

Linebacker:
Clint Session
Gary Brackett
Philip Wheeler
Tyjuan Hagler
Jordan Senn
Mike Tauiliili

Defensive End:
Dwight Freeney
Robert Mathis
Marcus Howard
Curtis Johnson (Superior pass rusher and special teams player to Keyunta Dawson)
Raheem Brock

Defensive Tackle:
Ed Johnson
Daniel Muir
Antonio Johnson
Eric Foster (I keep Foster over Dawson as well)
Fili Moala
Adrian Grady (Hands down has out-played both Moala and Taylor. Ready to contribute now. Stash Taylor.)

Special Teams:
T.J. Rushing (Best returner we have on the team at this point)
Justin Snow
Pat McAfee
Adam Vinatieri

Practice Squad:
Curtis Painter
Tom Pestock (I could see him being replaced here, but I'm running out of people I would hold on to)
John Matthews
Jaime Thomas
Steve Justice (If he's eligible)
Terrance Taylor
Ramon Humber
Travis Key

Physically Unable to Perform List:
Mike Hart
Tom Santi

Who Looked Good, Who Didn't? Colts v. Lions

bamock — Sun, 30 Aug 2009 00:20:06 -0000

While I am sure the Colts performance in the Lions game is not what many people were hoping for, what with all the build-up associated with the "third preseason game," don't fret too much. Overall the first team offense looked pretty scary. Peyton looks good. Dallas looks great. Austin Collie is still solid. Addai and Brown both look ready to go. Charlie Johnson is doing a serviceable job at LT. Things look pretty good for the regular season. Defensively, there were never more than 4 starters on defense on the field at any given time. If you think it looked bad, sloppy from time to time, it's because it was. That said, when Brackett returns, Ed Johnson plays, Mathis is on the field, our entire starting secondary plays together, things will look vastly different. There were some players who were disappointing as well. This post will break that down.

Who Looked Good?

Safety:

Jamie Silva -

Silva continues to be a guy who is always around the football. No matter what role you put him in, even if he's returning punts. He may not be a stud, in the sense that he's shown real game-changing or game-breaking ability to this point. He is, however, a solid player who can contribute to the team whenever he is on the field.

Melvin Bullitt -

Gets into the backfield to stop a run play for no gain. Stops another run off of left tackle through a full back. Looks to be picking up where he left off last year.

Cornerback:

Jerraud Powers -

Special teams tackle to start the game. The interception was a solid play. Powers stuck with his man tight, fought off of a push-off by the receiver, collected himself and stayed focused on the ball, coming back to make the interception. Very solid defensive play.

Linebacker:

Mike Tauiliili -

Mr. T owned the 4th quarter. He wreaked havoc in the Lions running lanes. He was primarily responsible for the goal line stand which caused the Lions to turn the ball over on downs. He stuffed the runner two downs in a row in order to achieve this feat. Beyond that, the guy is quick, hits hard, is all over the field, looks like a promising special teams performer. I like him, I hope he makes the roster, and if it were between Tauiliili and Keiaho for the last roster spot it would be a no brainer for me. Hello Mr. T. Freddy... it's KO for you buddy.

Clint Session -

Continues to be a freak. Quick to the ball, disrupts running lanes. Hits ball carriers hard. To this point in the preseason he looks like a very solid linebacker in the making. I predict he leads the team in tackles.

Tyjuan Hagler -

In on special teams plays. Also looked really good playing the running lanes, in on a number of tackles at or near the line of scrimmage against the run. One heads up play was near the end of the first quarter when the Lions were within 6 yards of a touchdown, Kevin Smith ran off of RT and Hagler fought off of a blocker to stiff Smith for a short gain.

Defensive End:

Marcus Howard -

Howard is greased lightning. Right now he's the fastest DE on the team. This guy is going to be a real stud. I look forward to seeing him get more opportunities this year.

Josh Thomas -

Run stop up the gut for a short gain. Another thing Thomas does well is, even when not making the tackle, he holds his blocker in the hole, redirecting the play. When that happens, as it did late in the first quarter, it allows others to swarm to the football and stop the player for a short gain. On the very next play the tackle attempts to seal Josh Thomas for a run off the left guard but Thomas holds him there enough to get an arm on the runner which stopped what would have otherwise been a sure touchdown.

Defensive Tackle:

Adrian Grady -

Did not get a whole lot of time on the field. However, while he was on the field he stuffed a run for no gain. A lot of fans gave Fili Moala credit for the stop. However, Moala was just "in the right place at the right time" to "receive" the ball carrier who was in the middle of going to the ground because Grade penetrated, filled the whole, and wrapped him up. Plays with great leverage as well. Late in the 3rd quarter he came back in the game and on the opening run play stood up the line and was in on the tackle, stopping the run for no gain. He also had the ability to really get some penetration late in the third quarter and early in the 4th on a couple of passing downs. He didn't get to the quarterback but he rely owned the blocker, getting by them or pushing them backward into the pocket. Remember that goal line stand that Mike T made, many of us were excited about it. Before he had the opportunity to make that play the Lions attempted a run off of the left side of the offense but that play was redirected by Adrian Grady, who pushed the Center back into the running lane and forced the running back to the offensive weak side where the defense cleaned things up. Another nice play that you wouldn't catch if you didn't look really close. By the way, on the 4th down attempt, the runner had no chance at making a second push because Grady forced the Center right into the lane the runner was trying to find. Tauiliili is responsible for the tackle, but the back had a wall in front of him even if he wanted to make a second effort.

Daniel Muir -

Penetrates and stops a run play to the left for a loss. In on another run stop for a short gain, an arm tackle on a run to the right. Another run stop for a short gain, coming across the offensive line laterally to stop the runner in the other tackle's hole.

Wide Receiver:

Austin Collie -

Once again, the story with Collie is that he is reliable. He catches pretty much everything that is thrown to him, he's field aware, and he has a knack for finding the open spots in the defense. These things typify what the Colts look for from a slot receiver. He could very well develop into a dangerous receiving option for the Colts as the season progresses.

Pierre Garcon -

For the first time, Garcon managed to not drop a pass that was right in his hands. On top of that, he managed to show the deep threat which we were promised from those who had an opportunity to see him practice during training camp. He should have just turned on the after-burners and ran down the sideline on his reception, he would have gotten more yard and potentially went in for a score, but all things considered it was his best game and gives fans reason to think he could be a legitimate back-up for us.

Tight End:

Tom Santi -

Santi look really good. He caught the ball, ran with it well, and looked like the player we saw from last year who made me feel the TE position showed a lot of promise. He can even block going downfield, which is not something Tamme excels at doing. All that could be for naught if his knee injury keeps him out for extended time again. Let's hope for the best. Of the back-up TEs, Santi is the one who I feel has the most upside as a pure TE. As a pure receiving TE, Tamme has the most upside clearly.

Dallas Clark -

Obviously this is a guy who needs no introduction. We all know how capable Clark is and that he's coming off of the best statistical season of his career. What he showed against the Lions is that he is an absolute stud. When Clark is on the field, Manning is a happy man. These two have something really special going.

Running Back:

Joseph Addai -

Addai has really displayed the kind of quickness he lacked all of last season. While I think Brown is faster than Addai, Joseph seems to have his speed back and that's what he needs to be effective with the ball in his hands. The last couple of games he has really started to give Colts fans their confidence back in his abilities. We have a legitimate RB tandem folks. Watch out.

Donald Brown -

Donald Brown is very fast. Quick to the hole. Quick through the hole. Small through the hole. He feels pressure and tackles coming before he gets there and finds a way to get an extra two or ten yards every time he touches the ball. If he can keep this up he'll lead the team in rushing yards and might surpass Addai's rookie season rushing totals.

Quarterback:

Curtis Painter -

I would be shocked if there were too many Colts fans who haven't been pleasantly surprised by Painter. For a young player to come into the Colts offense, be forced into extensive playing time due to Sorgi's injury, and play as solidly as he has is impressive. He looks pretty comfortable in the pocket. He has a strong arm. He makes pretty solid decisions most of the time. He seems to have good timing with his receivers. All in all, Painter looks like a legitimate back-up QB in the NFL, which is saying something for a team who hasn't had one of those for the better part of a decade. I look forward to his continued development. At this rate Sorgi will need to start thinking about his career options, no later than next year.

Offensive Line:

Kyle DeVan -

DeVan looked very good when he stepped in with the first team offensive line, replacing Jamey Richard. When he entered the game our run blocking and pass blocking improved. At this point, I believe DeVan has made a strong case for being the primary back-up for the starters on the interior of the defensive line. He wouldn't scare me starting either, if Pollak struggles.

Charlie Johnson -

People love to complain about the offensive line. I know. No they don't look perfect. But this guy deserves some props. A few weeks ago he was named the starting LT. Not a single Colts fan that I know responded to this news with a "hell yeah!" Charlie Johnson is a stud and the real solution we've been looking for at LT. Since that time he's done a solid job at LT, all things considered. Against the Lions he played nearly flawless. If he can play in every game the way he did in Detroit, I'm happy with Johnson as our LT. Can't believe it? I understand. Just watch the tape.

Punter:

Pat McAfee -

Has shown some consistency getting the directional and short yardage punts within the 20 yard line. His punts go very high and allow coverage to get under them quickly. This results in a lot of fair catches or punts dropping to the turf. Pair this with his powerful leg for long punts and his abilities as a holder and you have to be happy with this pick-up.

Who Didn't?

Wide Receiver:

John Matthews -

This is unfortunate to see. Matthews did all that he was asked to do in the first two preseason games and had the opportunity to solidify his impression with the organization in the Lions game that they should consider keeping him around as the 5th receiver, should the Colts choose to keep five. With that back-drop, dropping two passes, including one which was deflected into the air for an interception is not encouraging. He now can probably only hope for a practice squad spot and will need to show more of what he did in games 1 and 2 next week if he hopes to have a shot at even that.

Defensive Line:

Antonio Johnson -

I could pick out positive things most of the interior defensive linemen did during the course of the game. With Johnson, however, it seems like he got man-handled pretty regularly and didn't generate a great deal of push in pass rushing situations either. In fact, the weakest DL tandem I could identify on the day was Johnson and Moala.

Offensive Line:

Ryan Diem -

Regularly getting man-handled by the defensive end on his side. Allowing pressure to close in on Manning many times. Even sketchy in run blocking to start the 2nd quarter. More struggles against his man in the early 3rd quarter with the first unit in pass protection. (wonder if Ugoh would work here)

Steve Justice -

At this point I would think that Justice is the third string C at best and very low on the depth chart at guard. He may be gone. He has really struggled. It's disappointing. Who was primarily responsible for the Chad Simpson loss of yard after his "impressive" 9 yard gain? Primarily Steve Justice is who allowed his man to drag him down the line before he engaged Simpson and kept him from turning the corner. Then later in the 4th quarter, remember when we had a 3rd and 5, down one point with the ball... we failed to convert and had to punt the ball away. Steve Justice was playing RG and missed a key block to give Painter more time, which resulted in a rushed throw short in the middle of the field.

Others Worth Noting:

First Team Offensive Line - Outside of Diem, the others did great except for missing the stunt blitz early in the 2nd quarter. In fact, Charlie Johnson was outstanding. Run blocking was messy in the first half but then again, very little running occurred. When they went to the ground in the 3rd quarter they ran the ball very well.

Tony Ugoh - Look much more comfortable playing at RT than he has at LT. I still agree with others who've suggested that maybe he should be looked at as a guard. He could potentially push Pollak for the starting RG spot I would imagine. Still, it's good to see him looking competent on the field at RT too.

Who To Watch? Colts v. Lions

bamock — Sat, 29 Aug 2009 12:10:42 -0000

After a thorough look at the performers in the first two games of preseason, this post hopes to focus on what to look for in today's game, along with the rest of the preseason. The people listed below are either on the hot seat for a roster spot, in competition for a practice spot, or potentially in a position to earn a roster spot against steep odds. In terms of those who fall into those categories, I believe these players are the ones who should be watched the closest.

Cornerback:

Travis Key -

Key has done some good things in the first two preseason games. That said, the safety group is deep. Jennings, Powers, Hughes, and Lacey have made a better impression and have more experience at cornerback. Accordingly, he needs to really turn heads against the Lions in order to have a prayer at making the regular season roster. Even so, if he keeps up his current level of performance he may find his way onto the practice squad.

Nick Graham -

Graham is another player who's flashed ability on defense so far this preseason. On one play he nearly picked up a sack on a blitz. On a couple of other plays he has showed solid tackling ability and laid hard hits. Graham is fighting for his job on special teams. To this point he's not been a special teams standout. He will need to be one to close out the preseason if he hopes to find his way onto the regular season roster.

Linebacker:

Mike Tuailiili -

Against the Vikings Tauiliili looked really strong on defense. He displayed a great deal of quickness and laid hart hits on his opponents. In the Eagles game he did not stand out as much as Humber but still played solid football. If he can keep it up, he may put himself in a position to fight for the last linebacker roster spot.

Freddy Keiaho -

Keiaho has been a major disappointment to this point in the preseason. As it is, Keiaho is now playing with the second string defense and against second offenses. On this platform he should be standing out as one of the most dominant defenders on the field. Instead, he's not done anything worthy of notice. For someone who cleared waivers and sat in free agency for many weeks, not performing like a former starter who is playing against inferior competition is a bad sign. He needs to step it up against the Lions.

Defensive End:

Rudolph Hardie -

Camp fodder? Practice squad hopeful? An outside shot at breaking the roster? His performance against the Lions will go a long way in determining where he stands.

Curtis Johnson -

Johnson intrigues me but the defensive line competition is deep. Can he still hold onto a spot as a back-up pass-rusher? His performance on defense and particularly on special teams against the Lions will go a long way in determining his future with the Colts.

Josh Thomas -

Thomas is one of the fan favorite whipping boys. He's not a "pass rusher" and plays defensive end for the Colts. What a waste! Right? Actually, in the Eagles game he made a strong solo stop against the run and shared a sack with Melvin Bullitt. He has long been the best pure run stopping defensive end on the team, though some argue otherwise. Can he find his way back onto the roster?

Defensive Tackle:

Keyunta Dawson -

Where does Dawson fit on the current roster? It is clear the interior defensive line has added a lot of bulk. It is also clear that the defense is being more flexible with the defensive end rotation. If a player is going to stay on the team as a pure run stopping defensive end is Dawson a better option that Eric Foster? I would say not. If a player is going to stay on the team at defensive tackle he would likely be a pocket penetrating under tackle option. Is he a better option than a player like Raheem Brock or Eric Foster in that role? I would say not. Where does he fit? Maybe he can make that clear against the Lions.

Adrian Grady -

Grady has been stellar in his first two games. Another strong performance against the Lions may legitimize his shot at a roster spot in the regular season.

Terrance Taylor -

I know Taylor was a draft pick and last year we lacked bulk on the interior of the defensive line. This year, however, there is more bulk and experience ahead of Taylor in the nose tackle mold than fans could have ever projected. Unless Taylor shows something special again the Lions, it may be in the team's best interest to put him on the practice squad while someone like Adrian Grady stays on the roster for the regular season.

Wide Receiver:

Taj Smith -

With Roy Hall on the IR a potential opening at WR has presented itself to Taj Smith. To this point Smith has not shown anything as a receiver. He looked very fast in the Eagles game as a gunner on special teams coverage units. Still, whether he can hold down a roster spot as a gunner a lone is yet to be seen. It would behoove him to show something in the passing game.

John Matthews -

I have been impressed by Matthews thus far in the pre-season. Understandably, he has had only a few opportunities to get involved in the offense. Catching passes from a rookie quarterback who is playing behind back-up offensive linemen who has struggled is no walk in the park. Still, Matthews has made the most of every opportunity he has had to this point. If he has more opportunities in the last two weeks and makes the most of them, he could push his way onto the roster.

Running Back:

Chad Simpson -

If he doesn't magically turn into a returner or find a way to turn heads with the ball in his hands on offense, he'll be looking for a new home in a few weeks.

Tight End:

Tom Santi - Santi needs an opportunity to get on the field in the last two weeks of the preseason. I think he has a lot of potential and showed the most of our young tight ends last year. I hope he can get healthy and make his presence felt before the start of the regular season.

Offensive Line:

Tony Ugoh -

If Ugoh wants to start and secure a future in the NFL, he will need to step it up a great deal against the Lions. If he does not, Johnson will move solidly into the starting role. Moreover, Ugoh may be officially moved to guard and could lose his job after cuts before the season starts.

Steve Justice -

He is on the chopping block for any mock roster I can come up with or find. He will need to prove he can play in the NFL before the start of the regular season or he may lose his job to DeVan and Thomas.

Kyle DeVan -

The future heir to Saturday? If the Eagles game is any indication, he might be. The Lions game could start a pattern.

Dan Federkeil -

With the influx of more talent on the interior of the offensive line and seemingly little work for Federkeil or faith in his abilities on the outside, does he still find a way onto the regular season roster? It would be in his best interest to distinguish himself in the last two weeks of the preseason.

Who Looked Good, Who Didn't? Colts v. Eagles

bamock — Sat, 29 Aug 2009 11:56:58 -0000

I know this is very late but I have watched the Eagles game three times, including one focusing solely on defensive and offensive linemen. With so many new faces around, with the surprise departure of Adam Seward, and standout performances from a few... I thought it would be good to take a look at last week's game before we take a quick look ahead to the last two week of preseason.

Who Looked Good?

Cornerback:

Jacob Lacey -

While Lacey did not have as many opportunities to lay punishing hits on defenders against the Eagles as he did against the Vikings, he still displayed speed, quickness, and the ability to stick closely to his opponent in man coverage. For the second week in a row he made a play on a ball in coverage. Unfortunately he failed to haul it in for a turnover but it has been relatively rare to see someone so consistently in passing lanes, getting his hands on the ball, and having the opportunity to force turnovers in coverage in the Colts defensive scheme. If he looks good again against the Lions, I will pull hard for him as a dark horse roster candidate in the secondary.

Linebacker:

Ramon Humber -

While Tauiliili was the special teams star of the game against the Vikings, Humber was the special teams start against the Eagles. Multiple tackles while on the coverage units, forcing a fumble, recovering a fumble on defense, culminate in a solid day. He also played well in week 1 and the two games together have pushed him up in the competition for back-up linebacker spots. This is clear now as Adam Seward was released early this week.

Adam Seward -

Seward looked stout again against the Eagles. A solid run stopper and continually right near the ball on special teams coverage units. Frankly, his release early this week was a total shock to me. I hope we don't live to regret that decision. The Jaguars quickly snagged him up. Keiaho, on the other hand, cleared waivers and seemingly drew no legitimate interest. Am I missing something?

Defensive End:

Curtis Johnson -

Johnson is a player I have been looking forward to seeing this pre-season. In the Eagles game he looked like a solid special teams contributor and very quick on defense. He, once again, reminded me of the speed Freeney and Mathis have shown by making plays at places on the field no one would expect to see them. Two years ago this team lacked speedy pass rushing depth. Johnson is the only speed pass rushing depth on the team other than Marcus Howard. If he continues to perform well on special teams and develops at defensive end, he may still make the team despite a very deep competition on the defensive line.

Wide Receiver:

Austin Collie -

Collie has shown exactly what Colts fans have been looking for from a slot receiver. A player who, like Brandon Stokely, provides a consistent release for Peyton Manning in the middle of the field. Is Austin Collie going to be a crazy deep threat like a Wes Welker or as shifty as Brandon Stokely was in his best years with the Colts? Possibly not. Will he provide a reliable, consistent target for Manning on third downs, in the red zone, and create some coverage concerns for opposing defenses? So far, all he has shown, indicates that he will do that. If he does, the Colts passing game will be very powerful.

Reggie Wayne -

There is little to say about Reggie Wayne that has not been said before. He's clearly a perennial Pro Bowl talent at receiver in the NFL to this point. He has established himself as the 1A receiver on a team that included sure-fire Hall-of-Famer Marvin Harrison. What he has shown to this point in 2009 indicates that he will be playing at a level matching or exceeding the highest of his career. If he is playing at that level, if Collie is continues to perform at this level, and if Anthony Gonzalez continues to show the kind of chemistry he showed in that "Marvin" fade route in the red zone against the Vikings, the offense could be very scary this year.

Running Back:

Lance Ball -

While Ball didn't look like a super star, he certainly seemed to separate himself from Chad Simpson. This is good news for Ball, as he started the summer 5th on the depth chart at RB, behind Addai, Brown, Hart, and Simpson. As Simpson has done little to distinguish himself as the clear third option in the backfield or on special teams, Ball needed to show a flash of being the better option in a reserve role. In this game he has done enough to do that. Now he needs to reinforce that performance and perception against Detroit. The biggest surprise for me from Ball this pre-season has been his relatively soft hands.

Quarterback:

Curtis Painter -

Once again Painter did nothing to set the world on fire. However, he looked much more comfortable in the pocket and has more of a commanding presence on the field than I have seen from Sorgi in pre-seasons past. That doesn't mean that Painter is ready to take over for Sorgi as a rookie. It does potentially mean that Painter is the best back-up quarterback candidate we've seen since Sorgi and the one who may have the greatest chance of surpassing Sorgi's "upside," ultimately replacing him as the 2nd quarterback on the depth chart. Potentially as soon as next year.

Offensive Line:

Kyle DeVan -

Needless to say, the offensive line has not looked stable yet this pre-season. Something has got to change in a hurry and it would seem that the biggest problem on the team is at the left tackle position. With Ugoh struggling to nail down the starting spot and Johnson seemingly playing out of position, there is no doubt that the offensive line is in a state of flux. That said, Jamey Richard and Steve Justice have both been considered potential heirs to Jeff Saturday at Center but neither has locked down the job. Kyle DeVan looked really good at Center against the Eagles. To me, he looked like the real deal and has come the closest to looking like a legitimate heir to Saturday than the other young players we're brought in to develop along the interior of the offensive line.

Punt Returner:

T.J. Rushing -

The first time T.J. Rushing has had a legitimate chance to return a punt this year and he does an outstanding job. Is he the most dangerous returner in the NFL? No. Is he a top tier returner in the NFL? Not even close. Is he the best pure return man on the Colts this year? Well, it wouldn't take much but he's the only returner on the 2009 Colts who has touched the ball and even remotely resembled a threat. For that, he deserves recognition.

Tight End:

Jacob Tamme -

I'm not so quick to write of some of our young players who've been riddled by injuries, frankly because at this point if we did we'd be without nearly half of the players we've drafted or added in free agency over the last three or so years. I entered this season with high hopes for Tom Santi and we may yet see him develop into the 2nd TE or we may see him released before the regular season begins. Either way, we saw Tamme take a step toward that position against the Eagles and probably the most promising receiving young receiving tight end we've seen since... well... Dallas Clark. Has he proven enough to be compared to Clark? Of course not. Still, if he can build on the Eagles game... he'll be very impressive in a short period of time.

Who Didn't?

Offensive Line:

Tony Ugoh -

First, I want to make clear that I've closely scrutinized the tape on Ugoh from the Eagles game. Much of the "problems on the left side of the offensive line" with the 2nd unit were played up by the announcers. There were 5 times I saw Ugoh do a less than stellar blocking job. Surprisingly enough, 3 of those five were running plays. One potential missed assignment (downfield too soon), once he dismissed his assignment too early (or Simpson got to the LOS too slowly), and once he was beat inside. The two times he performed poorly in pass protection he was beat inside. He gave up no sacks, the QB was hit by his man only once. He had one legitimate penalty, a false start. Charlie Johnson look pretty good with the first team but gave up a sack and allowed a forced fumble. He also played three series while Ugoh played for most of three quarters. Jaime Thomas made a number of mistakes next to Ugoh that hurt the blocking on the left-side as well. Did he do well? Not really? Did he make a case for the starting position? No. Was he holy cow you stink? On a third look he wasn't as bad as it may have appeared at first glance.

Kick Returner:

Sam Giguere -

I am not entirely sure what Sam Giguere looked like during his two kick returns against the Eagles. I do know what he didn't look like, he didn't look like a kick returner. Hopefully he has a chance to look good catching passes from the quarterback. Otherwise, John Matthews looks like a project which much more upside than Giguere has shown to this point.

Others Worth Noting:

Starting Offensive Line - The first string unit did an excellent job both in pass protection and run blocking. Yes, that includes Charlie Johnson. Sure, the DE on Johnson got in and forced a fumble. Other than that one time getting to Manning, however, they were flawless. Much improved.

Clint Session - Are you kidding me? He's looking like a stud.

Ed Johnson - Johnson looked good again to me. Made a couple of nice plays standing up the line against the run. Also showed the ability to push the pocket. Looking good to me.

Josh Thomas - Watched him closely and he plays the run like a DE is supposed to play the run. He also got some penetration on a stunt. Looked very good.

Matt Giordano - Not a deep coverage safety.

Fili Moala - After a lackluster week 1, Moala looked pretty good on the line against the Eagles. Pretty regular penetration, which is what we're hoping to get from him.

Jaime Thomas - Didn't do a whole lot to make Tony Ugoh's job easier on the left side of the second-string offensive line.