The Colts started this game off rocky. They scored early on a Peyton Manning to Reggie Wayne TD, but penalties, miscues, and turnovers allowed the Titans to get into the red zone Colts territory three times. However, in all three cases, the Titans were denied the endzone. The Titans settled for field goals, which were not enough to stop the juggernaut that is Peyton Manning and the Colts offense.
The games was, in many ways, a coming out party for rookie wide receiver Austin Collie. For the last two weeks, it's been Pierre Garçon with the big plays. Tonight, Collie got in on the action. His 39 yard TD reception just before halftime was a thing of beauty, fighting for the TD between Titans defenders. Collie caught 8 balls for 97 yards and 2 TDs, and his TD before the half with 17 seconds left from Manning really seemed to break the Titans back. The TD drive was done in 57 seconds and started at Indy's 7 yard line.
The game was also provided much maligned cornerback Tim Jennings with a bit of redemption. After committing a terrible mistake early in the game on a Colts punt return, bumping into T.J. Rushing and causing a costly fumble, Jennings (who was benched tonight in favor of Jacob Lacey) played inspired football. On the Titans first drive to open the third quarter, Jennings made an outstanding INT, outfighting Titans receiver Justin Gage Nate Washington for the football on a quick slant. Lacey also played a whale of a game, showcasing some impressive coverage skills.
The Colts offense took over and turned Jennings' INT into a touchdown, Manning's second of the night to Collie.
Defensively, Larry Coyer's unit shut down the Titans rushing attack, limiting them to just 90 yards. This is now the third week in a row the Colts have completely dominated another team's running game. In addition, the Colts pass defense held Titans quarterback Kerry Collins to just 164 yards passing.
Yes, there were some sore spots, namely Tony Ugoh, who played about as bad at left tackle as I've ever seen a tackle play. I don't know if it was his knee that hurt his game, or if he has become THAT bad. Daniel Federkeil eventually replaced Ugoh in the second half.
However, regardless of some these issues, the Colts are and they have looked dominant getting to this point. Peyton Manning has thrown for over 300 yards in five consecutive games. The defense has held yet another opponent under 20 points.
Now the team moves into the bye week, looking to get healthy and clean up some of these sore spots. 5-0 looks and feels good!
Go Colts!
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