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Two days before their first game of the season, we still don’t know if the Colts will have their starting left tackle or starting running back.
Both Anthony Castonzo and Marlon Mack are questionable for #CINvsIND: https://t.co/tWyn21SlYs pic.twitter.com/tSibFhA6EJ
— Indianapolis Colts (@Colts) September 7, 2018
Anthony Castonzo and Marlon Mack are both listed as questionable for Sunday’s game, with only Denzelle Good officially listed as out. Both Mack and Castonzo have practiced in a limited capacity since Thursday, and Castonzo practiced on Wednesday as well.
Frank Reich is playing very coy with his injury announcements and he hasn’t been shy about the reason. He knows that there is a competitive advantage in knowing who will play, and he isn’t willing to let that advantage go just yet. According to Reich, there is a plan for the offensive line, regardless of whether or not Castonzo can play.
It would be foolish to think that the absence of Anthony Castonzo wouldn’t be a major blow to the Colts in a game against a team with a pretty nasty defensive line. This roster decision could have a major impact on the game Sunday. On the flip side, bringing Castonzo back too early and risking an aggravation of his hamstring injury would be a much worse situation.
Marlon Mack’s return would be a less impactful one, although certainly not to be taken for granted. Because the Colts will run multiple backs regularly, it is unlikely that his absence would have the same sting as losing their stalwart left tackle.
Darius Leonard, who had suffered with an injury to his ankle and chest was back in action and a full participant in today’s practice. That is encouraging, because Tyler Eifert is a dangerous weapon, and the Colts will need their rookie linebacker flying all over the field making plays if they want to get a win.
As much as we are anxious for answers, we may have to wait right down to the wire to determine who is starting this game.