Monday Morning Awards: Week 1 Vs. Seahawks

MVP of the Game: Carson Wentz

Wentz was probably the only player that had a good game on Sunday. I really liked his pocket mobility and ability to take a hit in the pocket (and he took a lot). The fumbled snap on the 4th and 1 QB sneak was perhaps the only bad play I saw from him. The Colts’ offense and Frank Reich did not do him any favors. The offensive line was awful, the receivers did not create separation, and the running backs could not create any explosive plays. If Wentz continues playing at this level, then Colts fans have plenty of reasons to remain positive about this season.

Dud of the Game (The Grigsy): Al-Quadin Muhammad

Sure, most of the offensive line had a terrible game, and Bobby Okereke struggled mightily, but the worst player on Sunday was AQM. He failed to generate any pass-rush, getting half a sack (w/ Khari Willis) that was not because of his own merit, and being a constant non-factor in the running game. He also missed several key tackles that allowed the Seahawks’ running backs to get extra yards and first downs. Hopefully, the Colts start using Ben Banogu and Kemoko Turay (once he is fully healthy) more instead of AQM.

Best Play of the Game: Zach Pascal’s first touchdown

With the Colts down 14-3, Wentz put up another long drive, but this one ended in a beautiful 10-yard touchdown pass to Zach Pascal, who held on to the ball despite being crushed by two Seahawks’ players.

Worst Play of the Game: Tyler Lockett’s long touchdown reception on 2nd and long

With little over a minute remaining in the first half, and after a false start and a Khari Willis sack, the Colts had the Seahawks facing a 2nd and 20 from their own 31-yard line. With the Seahawks getting the ball back to start the second half, a stop here was absolutely crucial. Unfortunately, the very next play, Khari Willis got beat deep by Tyler Lockett, and Russell Wilson placed a beautiful deep throw that put the Seahawks up 21-10.

Best Position Group: Cornerbacks

I did not have any faith at all in this position group, facing one of the best passing offenses in the NFL, and without our #1 cornerback in Xavier Rhodes. While the rest of the defense was horrible, the cornerbacks actually had a really solid game, led by Kenny Moore and T.J Carrie.

Unsung Hero: Mike Strachan

The standout rookie had a solid NFL debut, with two important catches and a drawn PI. With a depleted, and rather mediocre, wide receiver group, this Colts offense will need all the help it can get, and Strachan will surely get a lot of opportunities.

Rookie of the Week: Kwity Paye

Kwity Paye will probably be the ROTW on more than 90% of Sundays. He was excellent on his first NFL game, consistently winning the matchup against Duane Brown, and even recovering a Darius Leonard forced fumble.