Matchups to Watch Revisited: Week 4 @Bears

Anthony Castonzo/Braden Smith Vs. Khalil Mack

The Colts’ tackles did a fine job of limiting Mack’s impact throughout the game. Even though he had his fair share of pressures, Mack did not touch Philip Rivers, nor did he get a hold of any Colts running backs behind the line of scrimmage. He also dropped an interception while in coverage. Overall, an encouraging week for both tackles leading up to a matchup against Myles Garrett, who is currently the best defensive end in the NFL.

Colts’ IOL Vs. Akiem Hicks

I honestly can not figure out what is wrong with the Colts offensive line. Individually, they are not making any clear mistakes, but as a unit they are struggling to open up running lanes. They have faced some tough run-defenses in the past couple of weeks, but last season the Colts seemed to be able to run the ball at will. As Jonathan Taylor improves, probably so will the play of the line, but on Sunday, Hicks had yet another excellent game to continue his breakout season, with 2 tackles for loss and 2 QB hits.

T.Y Hilton Vs. Jaylon Johnson

Hilton continues struggling to make any meaningful impact in a game. Against the Bears he had just 3 catches for 29 yards. With Campbell and Pittman out for the foreseeable future, it is imperative that Hilton snaps out of this cold streak. I’m not asking him to play at an elite level like he did in his prime with Andrew Luck, but if he can recapture his redzone magic from last season, then Rivers would have a solid option and it would help solve the issues in that area.

Colts’ Linebackers Vs. Jimmy Graham

The Colts have been really good at shutting down opposing tight ends, which is a must in the AFC with tight ends like Travis Kelce and Mark Andrews. On Sunday, the Colts managed to keep Jimmy Graham in check, limiting him to under 40 yards, like they have with every tight end this season. They will face Austin Hooper against the Browns, and if Leonard and Okereke are out, the hot streak could come to an end.

Jonathan Taylor Vs. His Lack of Vision

Taylor looked better against the Bears. He seemed to have a better feel for when to hit the hole, and also what hole to hit. His speed continues to amaze me, the Colts just need to be patient with him. Once he figures it out, which will be sooner rather than later, I would put him in the top 5 of NFL running backs.