Q & A With SB Nation: Previewing The 2013 Indianapolis Colts

1. Who is the easiest player on the roster to root for?

For most Colts fans, I'd have to say the two easiest are wide receiver Reggie Wayne and punter Pat McAfee.

With Reggie, there is a certain reverence about him that was, at one time, reserved only for Peyton Manning. I also think that the fact that he turned down more money offered by the Patriots to instead stay with the rebuilding Colts pretty much solidified his near god-like status with fans. That, and he's a helluva receiver.

McAfee is well-liked because he is a goofball that works hard. For working class Indiana fans, they can immediately identify with this silly comedian (who now has his own show via IndyStar.com) that takes a workmanlike approach to his craft and profession. McAfee ability to laugh at himself has also endeared him to fans.

As for me, I'm rooting for Austin Collie. Hasn't he looked good so far in preseason?

[Stampede Blue associate editor Matt Grecco whispers into Brad's ear]

That's not Collie? REALLY? WOW!

I guess I'm rooting for Griff Collie. Er, I mean Austin Whalen.

2. If you could buy a ticket to just one game this year...

Hmmmmm...

[Looks at schedule]

Let me see here. I guess, maybe.... Jacksonville? Right? I mean, Blaine Gabbert's a big draw, isn't he?

[Looks at the schedule again]

OH! HAHAHAHAHA!!! Silly me. I didn't see that game in October that features Peyton Manning returning to Indianapolis for the first time since his very public break-up with Colts owner Jim Irsay, which resulted in Irsay cutting Manning before he signed with the Broncos.

Yeah, I'm thinking that game over Jacksonville.

3. Which veterans could be cut before the season due to salary cap issues?

None. There are several veterans that I feel should be cut, especially along the offensive line, but those cuts won't happen.

Why won't they happen? Because god hates me.

4. Which second year player is going to make the biggest leap?

Hmmmmmm...

[Looks at roster]

Let me see. I'm thinking, maybe... Justin Anderson, guard out of Georgia taken in the seventh round last year. I mean, he played in the SEC. So, he has to be some sort of NFL Kick-Ass Super Soldier Avenger From Krypton, right?

[Looks at roster again]

Oh wait! Nevermind. They cut Anderson during training camp.

Well, if he's not there, I guess I'll go with quarterback Andrew Luck. He's got a great chance to make the team this year! Gotta good feeling about him.

5. What are the odds of your head coach getting fired?

QUICK! What's the name of that X-Men comic book villain who could create teleportational warps between two different points?

6. What franchise or NFL records could be broken this season?

The improved play of the secondary has me thinking that the NFL record for interceptions by a defense in one season may go down. Is it possible to snag 1,000 interceptions in one season? I might have to consult Football Outsiders on that one.

7. Which rookies will see regular playing time this year?

Well, pretty much every team's first round pick for that year sees regular season time their first season, unless it's 2010 and your draft selection is Jerry Hughes.

But, I digress!

For the 2013 Colts, look for outside linebacker Bjoern Werner to make an impact as he's used as a pass rusher in nickel situations. Third round selection Hugh Thornton should be the starting right guard, but because head coach Chuck Pagano is secretly a sadist, the Colts seem to be opting for veteran turnstile Mike McGlynn at that position.

8. Predict the order of finish in your division.

1. Colts (11-5)

2. Texans (9-7)

3. Titans (7-9)

4. Jaguars (0-10)*

* Last six games are forfeited due to owner Shad Khan relocating the team to Egypt.

9. What do you expect your season-end record will be?

Well, if you look up at question No. 8, I think I just answered that. But, to see if anyone is paying attention to this, I'll say 13-3. If you noticed this inconsistency, use the comments below to make fun of me.

Now, if you'll excuse me, I have 12 straight hours of playing Skyrim booked on my calendar. Grab some hot pockets on your way out the door.

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