Key Colts Players on Offense and Defense: Week 14 vs Raiders

The Colts are finally starting to get healthier for the first time in what feels like forever. Having the majority of players back is of the utmost importance this week as the Colts are fighting for a playoff spot and are set to face the Las Vegas Raiders, who are right behind them in the playoff race.

A playoff spot could be on the line this Sunday, let’s see which players I think will be keys to pulling off the victory.

OFFENSE

TY Hilton

I wanted to pick T.Y. Hilton so badly for last week’s key players. He normally dominated the Texans in Houston, and he did it once again last week. This is now two straight weeks in which Hilton has had a big game.

As he heats up, I figure there is no better player to pick this week. The Raiders have had an inconsistent defense all year long, and particularly their secondary seems to be the weakest piece.

The Raiders have shown the ability to put up some big numbers, so if they take an early lead the Colts will need to rely more so on the passing game anyways.

Hilton leads the Colts in receiving yards with 518 on his 41 catches, but he only has 2 touchdowns. The first of his touchdown receptions came two weeks ago against the Titans, and he brought in his second just last week in Houston.

Hilton will be important as the season comes to a close and Indy potentially heads into the postseason. Hilton is one of the longest tenured veterans on the team and has been a leader all year long despite his struggles.

It is Hilton’s job to step up and make sure the Colts can find their way into the playoffs. I think he can get it done, and it all starts this Sunday against Vegas.

DEFENSE

Julian Blackmon

I’m taking Blackmon this week for a couple reasons. Blackmon has been really good all season long and has had some standout performances that give him a serious shot at winning Defensive Rookie of the Year.

Derek Carr has put together an extremely impressive season this year with over 3,000 passing yards and 22 touchdown passes while only throwing 5 interceptions.

It will be interesting to see how Carr can compete against a top defense like the Colts, but I wouldn’t be surprised if he had a good game. With everyone back on the defensive line, it shouldn’t be too difficult to apply pressure on Carr. The more pressure applied, the easier it will be on the secondary.

So far this season, Blackmon has 27 solo tackles, 2 interceptions, and 6 passes defended. He has proven his greatness as a rookie and there appears to be a ton of upside.

Look out for Blackmon this week, I think he’ll make some big plays.