Stampede Blue - Indianapolis Colts vs Jacksonville Jaguars 2020 Week One Game HubAn Indianapolis Colts bloghttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/29818/stampedeblue_fave.png2020-09-17T08:30:00-04:00http://www.stampedeblue.com/rss/stream/211961602020-09-17T08:30:00-04:002020-09-17T08:30:00-04:00SB Nation Reacts: Fan’s confidence level plummets in Colts after Week 1 upset; Week 2 fan picks
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<img alt="NFL: Indianapolis Colts at Jacksonville Jaguars" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/asHYOyTRCTt0rfLcSsb7CMPwCnE=/215x0:3094x1919/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/67421945/usa_today_14927576.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p id="pV5NcQ"><em>Welcome to SB Nation Reacts where SB Nation gets fan reactions from the previous week’s results, as well as asking questions about the coming week’s slate. We also take a look at the weekly changes in confidence level from the team’s fans. </em></p>
<p id="jIvv8G">For the <a href="https://www.stampedeblue.com/">Indianapolis Colts</a>, and their fans, Week 1 was not a resounding success to say the least. The Colts took a major shot to the chin in their 27-20 loss to the <a href="https://www.bigcatcountry.com/">Jacksonville Jaguars</a>. Philip Rivers threw two picks — a third that was negated due to a Jaguars’ penalty — and <a href="https://dknation.draftkings.com/2019/8/30/20840982/marlon-mack-fantasy-football-dfs-salary-stats-2019">Marlon Mack</a> was lost for the season after a reception in the second quarter, and needless to say, the fans were not impressed. </p>
<p id="2yj0a3">To say that the fan base lost their confidence level from the upper 90 percents to where that number stands today is a massive understatement. Fans let their disdain be heard as that number now sits at 57 percent, and their Week 2 home opener against the <a href="https://www.dailynorseman.com/">Minnesota Vikings</a> now becomes critically important to the state of Colts’ fans. </p>
<div id="oqs1kc"><div style="left: 0; width: 100%; height: 0; position: relative; padding-bottom: 75%;"><iframe src="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1M-Y-7UL5KHHYXx-zMmmfYwT2k3IKYoJt/preview" style="border: 0; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute;" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div></div>
<p id="7YxVjd">This series should technically be called SB Nation overreacts, because that’s exactly what’s going on here. Yes, Rivers had a couple of terrible throws and his arm doesn’t look any stronger than it did last year, and yes the Colts’ defense looked as soft as a loaf of bread, but it’s still only Week 1. </p>
<p id="sT33L7">Rivers threw some great balls while under pressure or being hit, he showed that he has ultimate control of the huddle and the line of scrimmage, his accuracy was overwhelmingly on point, and he’s as competitive as it gets. </p>
<p id="FAOmwU">The Colts’ defense was not aggressive for the most part in Jacksonville, that much is obvious. However, Matt Eberflus does have the ability to dial up additional pressure, to use creative looks pre-snap in order to keep opposing offenses on their toes, and the Colts have some real playmakers on that side of the ball as well. </p>
<p id="kVK1cM">The Colts still largely have everything Colts’ fans were hopeful about heading into this season aside from <span>Mack</span> in the backfield. That may be an issue going forward, but the team’s pass catchers are still very compelling, the offensive line is that same group that bullied teams last season, and they have the ability to be diverse with their backfield.</p>
<p id="ASpTNp">It isn’t all bad simply due to one poor outing. The team hasn’t won a Week 1 game in as long as many of us can remember (2013), but the Colts are 48-48 in that time frame. This isn’t a point to make you feel like the Colts are bound for the playoffs this season, rather to point out that the team isn’t sliding down the sewer either. </p>
<p id="nC73ye">The Colts will bounce back, it’s a long season. It may or may not be in Week 2, but this team is too talented not to hold their own for a solid stretch of a 16-game season.</p>
<p id="4OaWao">Now let’s move on to the fan picks for the Week 2 NFL slate. </p>
<p id="G4tuvX">As I mentioned above, it may not be Week 2 in which the Colts bounce back. And it appears as if the rest of the SB Nation community believes that as well. Despite the Colts being early favorites for their home opener, they aren’t being picked by those taking part in our weekly survey.</p>
<p id="OVjPhN"><em><strong>Here are the rest of the week’s picks as voted on via the survey:</strong></em> </p>
<p id="QJRsf8"><strong>Bengals</strong><strong> (0-1)</strong> over Browns (0-1)</p>
<p id="Sp1QF6"><strong>Bears</strong><strong> (1-0)</strong> over Giants (0-1)</p>
<p id="lWtvSI"><strong>Cowboys</strong><strong> (0-1)</strong> over Falcons (0-1)</p>
<p id="rg3Mz2"><strong>Rams</strong><strong> (1-0)</strong> over Eagles (0-1)</p>
<p id="xgb0Gd"><strong>Buccaneers</strong><strong> (0-1)</strong> over Panthers (0-1)</p>
<p id="CBxV2X"><strong>Steelers</strong><strong> (1-0)</strong> over Broncos (0-1)</p>
<p id="7wRUoo"><strong>Cardinals</strong><strong> (1-0)</strong> over Washington (1-0)</p>
<p id="5KuWhg"><strong>Packers</strong><strong> (1-0)</strong> over Lions (0-1)</p>
<div id="gaJsry"><div style="left: 0; width: 100%; height: 0; position: relative; padding-bottom: 75%;"><iframe src="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1D9Iq5VVhLX9UH4ouP_VGf-S5Hhi5gx2s/preview" style="border: 0; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute;" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div></div>
<p id="SKLjCp"><strong>Titans</strong><strong> (1-0)</strong> over Jaguars (1-0)</p>
<p id="Aafp8I"><strong>Chiefs</strong><strong> (1-0)</strong> over Chargers (1-0)</p>
<p id="5vFuWF"><strong>Ravens</strong><strong> (1-0)</strong> over Texans (0-1)</p>
<p id="5bkbs4"><strong>Bills</strong><strong> (1-0)</strong> over Dolphins (0-1)</p>
<p id="UnTbTn"><strong>49ers</strong><strong> (0-1)</strong> over Jets (0-1)</p>
<p id="qcsFrk"><strong>Seahawks</strong><strong> (1-0)</strong> over Patriots (1-0)</p>
<p id="EDdeVe"><strong>Saints</strong><strong> (1-0)</strong> over Raiders (1-0)</p>
https://www.stampedeblue.com/2020/9/17/21440778/sb-nation-reacts-fans-confidence-level-plummets-in-colts-after-week-1-upset-week-2-fan-picksMatt Danely2020-09-15T19:03:25-04:002020-09-15T19:03:25-04:00Reich’s Best/Worst Decisions: Week 1 @Jaguars
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<img alt="Indianapolis Colts v Jacksonville Jaguars" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/eSkv4o1gujXZHzihl6Ceel631Hc=/0x0:3557x2371/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/67412686/1272309718.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Julio Aguilar/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p id="f5szjv">Reich did not have a good game on Sunday. He continues to show the same flaws that have prevented him from reaching the upper echelon of head coaches in the NFL. He has 15 games to turn it around, but the start has not been promising in 2020. </p>
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<h3 id="8uUQx7"><strong>Best Decisions</strong></h3>
<h4 id="YZa3NQ"><strong>#1: Aggresiveness</strong></h4>
<p id="UJ54uU">My favourite college teacher told us at the start of the first lecture “You don’t judge a decision by its result, but by the reasoning made in order to make such decision.” Even though it does not work all the time, I love how Reich goes for it consistently on 4th and short, no matter the position on the field. It shows confidence in his players and it gives the team a big morale boost.</p>
<h4 id="HWSb2V">
<strong>#2: </strong><span><strong>Jack Doyle</strong></span><strong> play call on 4th and short</strong>
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<p id="S4Z9Ju">Facing 4th and 1 on their own 38, Reich called a beautiful play-action pass for <span>Jack Doyle</span> that completely fooled the Jags defense and got 28 yards. Blankenship ended up missing the field goal later in the drive but that was a gutsy call by Reich.</p>
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<h3 id="alRrah"><strong>Worst Decisions</strong></h3>
<h4 id="37FbBG"><strong>#1: Abandoning the run game early</strong></h4>
<p id="cE0nYS">In Week 1, the <a href="https://www.stampedeblue.com/">Colts</a> were among the teams that had the most passing attempts in neutral situations. That can’t happen for a team whose biggest strength is the running game. As Quenton Nelson’s popular <a href="https://www.stampedeblue.com/">Colts</a> hat says “Run the Damn Ball”. For the Colts offense to work with <span>Philip Rivers</span> the Colts have to able to pound the ball consistently on the ground.</p>
<h4 id="9Qj5n6"><strong>#2: Rushing with Hines on 4th and 1 in the red-zone</strong></h4>
<p id="p0dAsW">This is not the first time Reich has used Hines as a runner on 4th and short. It is also not the first time it failed. I cannot comprehend the decision to use Hines, who weights 195, over Mack (210), Taylor (225), or even Wilkins (216). This is an example of Reich trying to get too cute on the play-call.</p>
<h4 id="2FZ5v9">
<strong>#3: Having </strong><span><strong>Rivers</strong></span><strong> play hero ball</strong>
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<p id="e83Wal"><span>Rivers</span> proved last season that he struggles when forced to throw the ball a lot in crunch-time, and Sunday was no different. Rivers was not effective on the Colts two final drives (interception, turnover on downs). Reich has to trust the running game more in late-game situations to open up space for Rivers on play-action calls.</p>
<h4 id="1wmNPG"><strong>#4: Whatever the defense was doing, all game long</strong></h4>
<p id="24Y2tH">Of course, this falls more on Eberflus’ shoulders than on Reich, but the defense was horrendous on Sunday. The unit made Minshew look elite and got embarrassed by UDFA running back James Robinson. New addition <span>DeForest Buckner</span> made some plays against the <a href="https://www.bigcatcountry.com/">Jaguars</a> running game but struggled to get on Minshew, which exposed the weaknesses of the Colts soft zone coverage. The corners did not press the Jags receivers at the line at all, allowing easy short completions that piled up and led to points. </p>
<h4 id="VkrI8T"><strong>#5: 2 illegal formation penalties on 4 plays</strong></h4>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/Colts?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@colts</a> get flagged 2X in 4 plays for illegal formations! Once for having only 6 men on LOS & once for having 8 on LOS. How in the world is this possible. How does the coach & QB who played forever and a day NOT see this? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BaldysBreakdowns?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BaldysBreakdowns</a> <a href="https://t.co/JpB4Wm7GfJ">pic.twitter.com/JpB4Wm7GfJ</a></p>— Brian Baldinger (@BaldyNFL) <a href="https://twitter.com/BaldyNFL/status/1305861450385240064?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 15, 2020</a>
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<p id="ueArWK">This does not fall entirely on Reich’s shoulders, as a veteran quarterback like Rivers should not make this kind of mistake, but it was mind-boggling.</p>
https://www.stampedeblue.com/2020/9/15/21437063/reichs-best-worst-decisions-week-1-jaguarsMateo Caliz2020-09-15T10:00:00-04:002020-09-15T10:00:00-04:00Colts Rookie Report: Week 1 at Jaguars
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<img alt="Indianapolis Colts v Jacksonville Jaguars" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/MunxOj38FQli_9_pAGUqvieRREQ=/1x0:5194x3462/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/67408554/1272309895.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Julio Aguilar/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p id="jVbA27"><a href="https://www.stampedeblue.com/">Colts</a> General Manager Chris Ballard has spent the last four offseasons trying to rebuild the <a href="https://www.stampedeblue.com/">Colts</a> franchise. He put together one of the best draft classes in the NFL over that period, arguably one of the best in history, and has almost completely turned over the roster he inherited following the 2016 NFL season.</p>
<p id="jHifrK">During this period, Indianapolis has placed a great emphasis on developing homegrown talent and giving young players the chance to gain experience during the regular season. Their development was key to his inside out and ground up approach to culture building and establishing a locker room identity strong enough to reach and play deep into the playoffs.</p>
<p id="9Zuj6B">It should come as little surprise then, especially with an abbreviated offseason where a lot of work was done by way of video chat, that rookies would gradually see a more diminished role as the team grows and more players are signed to contract extension. Colts fans saw the beginning of some of that on Sunday.</p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="QIYfIc">
<h3 id="wUzENO"><strong>OFFENSE</strong></h3>
<p id="xwl6ef">Chris Ballard spent two second round draft pick to add skill positions players to the offense. The wide receiver room desperately needed to add size and athleticism and the backfield faced an uncertain future with players nearing the end of their rookie contracts. </p>
<p id="ndNdlK">Rookie receiver <span>Michael Pittman Jr.</span> and rookie back <span>Jonathan Taylor</span> were the face of the 2020 <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl-draft">NFL Draft</a> in Indianapolis and there are some pretty high expectations that they’ll have a meaningful impact as the season progresses.</p>
<p id="4aBjm8">With that said, the Colts targeted Pittman Jr. only twice, which netted two receptions for 10 yards. New starting quarterback <span>Philip Rivers</span> leaned heavily on running back <span>Nyheim Hines</span> and receivers <span>Parris Campbell</span> and <span>T.Y. Hilton</span>, who were each targeted 8 or 9 times.</p>
<p id="DnrPK9">Perhaps the biggest positive for Pittman is that he was on the field for 39 of 74 offensive snaps (53%) and was clearly one of Frank Reich’s primary offensive weapons, even in his first game. His usage in the passing game left something to be desired but that should develop over time.</p>
<p id="J1Fl19">One of <span>Rivers</span>’ other top targets was rookie rusher Taylor. He caught 6 passes on 6 targets and took those opportunities 67 yards — including the longest offensive play for either team of 35 yards. Strangely, Taylor was limited more in this game that might have been expected. He rushed 9 times for 22 yards but was an afterthought early in the game, which featured <a href="https://dknation.draftkings.com/2019/8/30/20840982/marlon-mack-fantasy-football-dfs-salary-stats-2019">Marlon Mack</a> and <span>Hines</span> exclusively. </p>
<p id="IMSqSy">Taylor was on the field for 26 of 74 snaps (35%). He led the team with 89 yards of total offense. This bodes well given that <span>Mack</span>’s season-ending Achilles injury will likely thrust Taylor into a more prominent offensive role.</p>
<p id="bZH5CY">The only other offensive rookie to contribute in the game was interior offensive lineman <span>Danny Pinter</span> who saw his way onto the field as a sixth offensive lineman on 5 plays (7%). It’s a nod of confidence to trot Pinter onto the field when the team has other options with more experience.</p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="wtKTs4">
<h3 id="oG1rAs"><strong>DEFENSE</strong></h3>
<p id="g1ELQJ">The only rookie contributions by defensive players were limited to special teams. Linebacker Jordan Glasgow tied for the team lead with 19 special teams reps. Corner Isaiah Rodgers contributed 9 of his own, including a fair catch as a punt returner.</p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="inaZws">
<h3 id="Xpy5kF"><strong>SPECIAL TEAMS</strong></h3>
<p id="sdDPcO">Rookie kicker <span>Rodrigo Blankenship</span> beat out veteran <span>Chase McLaughlin</span> to enter the season as the Colts official replacement for future Hall of Famer Adam Vinatieri. He made four of five attempts, including both extra points and two of three field goal tries. His miss was from 30 yards out, early in the third quarter and could have extended the Colts lead to 20-14. </p>
<p id="mGXDyR">Instead, the <a href="https://www.bigcatcountry.com/">Jaguars</a> took the ensuing possession down the field and got <span>Josh Lambo</span> in position for a 50-yard field goal that tied the game.</p>
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<h3 id="b8BXpr"><strong>OTHERS</strong></h3>
<p id="wVXsxF">The following rookies were inactive: QB <span>Jacob Eason</span>, WR <span>Dezmon Patmon</span>, TE <span>Noah Togiai</span>, S <span>Julian Blackmon</span></p>
https://www.stampedeblue.com/2020/9/15/21437694/colts-rookie-report-week-1-at-jaguarsBrett Mock2020-09-15T09:00:00-04:002020-09-15T09:00:00-04:00Matchups to Watch Revisited: Week 1 @Jaguars
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<img alt="NFL: SEP 13 Colts at Jaguars" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/hfwOheFFYvF9-cAZSiH6lsQUouU=/0x1:2588x1726/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/67408206/1228511264.jpg.0.jpg" />
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<h3 id="6eB9i0">
<span><strong>Nyheim Hines</strong></span><strong> vs. Jags’ Linebackers</strong>
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<p id="RYF7R4">As predicted, <span>Hines</span> was Rivers’ favourite target in the passing game, hauling in 8 of his 9 targets for 45 yards and a score. Hines has blazing speed and runs some crisp routes out of the backfield. He is quite limited as a runner but his receiving ability will make him a staple in this <a href="https://www.stampedeblue.com/">Colts</a> offense, especially with Mack out for the season.</p>
<h3 id="VwYcbS">
<a href="https://www.stampedeblue.com/"><strong>Colts</strong></a><strong>’ IOL vs. Jags’ IDL</strong>
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<p id="VmblHm">Surprisingly, the Jags defensive linemen got the best of the Colts o-line in the running game, as Nelson, Kelly, and Glowinski failed to open up holes, the bread and butter for the Colts’ offense last season. The play that stood out the most was the stop on 4th and 1 in the redzone where Nelson and Kelly failed to open up enough space for Hines to get the first. Shocking loss for the Colts in this match-up.</p>
<h3 id="NxGTFg">
<span><strong>Anthony Castonzo</strong></span><strong>/</strong><span><strong>Braden Smith</strong></span><strong> vs. </strong><span><strong>Josh Allen</strong></span>
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<p id="SLzz5H">Yet another win for the Jags here, <span>Allen</span> generated consistent pressure on Rivers. Even though the stat line does not reflect, <span>Allen</span> had a great start to the season on Sunday, as <span>Smith</span>’s struggles versus more athletic pass rushers continue.</p>
<h3 id="QWV7Uz">
<span><strong>T.Y. Hilton</strong></span><strong> vs. C.J. Henderson</strong>
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<p id="UMfNO3">I got flashbacks from <span>Ronald Darby</span>’s amazing debut versus the Colts a few seasons ago. Henderson had himself an amazing game, even though he got beat on a couple of routes by T.Y. he was a solid tackler and made the game winning stop on 4th down. Kudos to him, Jacksonville got another lockdown corner after losing <span>Jalen Ramsey</span>.</p>
<h3 id="KTRyWu">
<span><strong>Rodrigo Blankenship</strong></span><strong> vs. The Yips</strong>
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<p id="hpBVBo"><em>“Oh sh*t, here we go again”, </em>Blankenship missed a 30-yard field goal off the left upright. We can only hope it was a one time thing and he gets this issues resolved, otherwise we can expect another season trembling at the sight of the field goal unit lining up.</p>
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https://www.stampedeblue.com/2020/9/15/21437030/matchups-to-watch-revisited-week-1-jaguarsMateo Caliz2020-09-15T08:11:09-04:002020-09-15T08:11:09-04:00Colts News: Frank Reich takes blame for play-calling mistakes that hurt Rivers, Brissett
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<img alt="Indianapolis Colts v Jacksonville Jaguars" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/xpdRpyptOO5uEPHk7FNAJd_LL8w=/0x0:3557x2371/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/67408005/1272309718.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Julio Aguilar/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p id="P6HeJi"><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1641927&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.indystar.com%2Fstory%2Fsports%2Fnfl%2Fcolts%2F2020%2F09%2F14%2Fcolts-coach-frank-reich-says-play-calling-hurt-philip-rivers-brissett%2F5799067002%2F&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.stampedeblue.com%2F2020%2F9%2F15%2F21437682%2Fcolts-news-frank-reich-takes-blame-for-play-calling-mistakes-that-hurt-rivers-brissett" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Colts coach Frank Reich says play-calling hurt Philip Rivers, Brissett</a><br>From Brissett's red-zone play to <span>Rivers</span>' first interception and the pass-run disparity, Reich found a lot of fault in himself as a play caller.</p>
<p id="rjEcS8"><a href="https://www.colts.com/news/philip-rivers-marlon-mack-5-things-learned-jacksonville-jaguars-2020-week-1">5 Things Learned: Top takeaways from the Colts' 2020 Week 1 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars</a><br>What were the main takeaways from Sunday’s Indianapolis Colts 2020 Week 1 loss to the <a href="https://www.bigcatcountry.com/">Jacksonville Jaguars</a>? Here are Five Things Learned.</p>
<p id="lq2jEs"><a href="https://www.colts.com/news/jonathan-taylor-marlon-mack-starting-running-back-minnesota-vikings-week-2-2020">Rookie Jonathan Taylor will now be the Colts' starting running back after an injury to Marlon Mack, head coach Frank Reich confirmed</a><br>Indianapolis Colts head coach Frank Reich confirmed today that rookie Jonathan Taylor will become the team’s new starter at running back after <span>Marlon Mack</span> suffered a season-ending Achilles injury in Sunday’s Week 1 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars.</p>
<p id="vHTAtg"><a href="https://www.1075thefan.com/kevins-sports-news/hits-and-misses-colts-offense-finds-success-with-screen-game/">Hits And Misses: Colts Offense Finds Success With Screen Game | 93.5 & 107.5 The Fan</a><br>Hits And Misses: Colts Offense Finds Success With Screen Game</p>
<p id="cyXmJs"><a href="https://www.kokomotribune.com/indiana/sports/even-after-losing-mack-colts-aim-to-get-back-to-run-game/article_40d5ed20-fa24-56b0-8275-613a62888da4.html">Even after losing Mack, Colts aim to get back to run game | Sports | kokomotribune.com</a><br>INDIANAPOLIS — The Indianapolis Colts got away from their identity Sunday, and it cost them.</p>
<p id="3dAyDm"><a href="https://www.1075thefan.com/kevins-sports-news/marlon-mack-tears-achilles-out-for-season/">Marlon Mack Tears Achilles, Out For Season | 93.5 & 107.5 The Fan</a><br>Marlon Mack Tears Achilles, Out For Season</p>
<p id="SkI9Y9"><a href="https://www.colts.com/news/marlon-mack-jonathan-taylor-nyheim-hines-torn-achilies-out-for-season">Tests confirm Colts starting RB Marlon Mack suffered a season-ending Achilles injury in Sunday's Week 1 loss to the Jaguars</a><br>Indianapolis Colts head coach Frank Reich said today that tests confirmed starting running back Marlon Mack suffered a season-ending Achilles injury in Sunday's Week 1 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars.</p>
<p id="7qpCYS"><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1641927&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.indystar.com%2Fstory%2Fsports%2Fnfl%2Fcolts%2Fcolts-insider%2F2020%2F09%2F14%2Fcolts-rb-marlon-mack-suffers-achilles-injury-may-out-season%2F5791611002%2F&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.stampedeblue.com%2F2020%2F9%2F15%2F21437682%2Fcolts-news-frank-reich-takes-blame-for-play-calling-mistakes-that-hurt-rivers-brissett" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Colts RB Marlon Mack suffers Achilles injury, out for season</a><br>Colts RBs Jonathan Taylor and <span>Nyheim Hines</span> will see increased roles while Marlon Mack is sidelined.</p>
<p id="hE16QG"><a href="https://fox59.com/sports/colts/colts-marlon-mack-out-for-the-season-after-tearing-achilles/">Colts’ Marlon Mack out for the season after tearing Achilles | Fox 59</a><br>INDIANAPOLIS – Marlon Mack’s worst fear has been confirmed. A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) test revealed the Indianapolis Colts’ feature running back suffered a torn right Achilles tendon in Sunday’s opening 27-20 loss at Jacksonville Surgery is required, which will end his season and perhaps his career with the team. Mack, 24, is in the […]</p>
<p id="lug7M5"><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1641927&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.indystar.com%2Fstory%2Fsports%2Fnfl%2Fcolts%2F2020%2F09%2F13%2Fcolts-fans-take-advantage-opportunity-attend-only-nfl-game-crowd%2F5786206002%2F&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.stampedeblue.com%2F2020%2F9%2F15%2F21437682%2Fcolts-news-frank-reich-takes-blame-for-play-calling-mistakes-that-hurt-rivers-brissett" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Colts: Fans take advantage of opportunity to attend only NFL game with a crowd</a><br>There were so many Colts fans in Florida Sunday it was 'home away from home in Jacksonville.'</p>
<h3 id="k5oS4M"><strong>SUBSCRIPTION ONLY</strong></h3>
<p id="hXdAKP"><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1641927&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.indystar.com%2Fstory%2Fsports%2Fnfl%2Fcolts%2F2020%2F09%2F14%2Fcolts-marlon-mack-achilles-out-year-jonathan-taylor-steps-into-lead-role%2F5794037002%2F&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.stampedeblue.com%2F2020%2F9%2F15%2F21437682%2Fcolts-news-frank-reich-takes-blame-for-play-calling-mistakes-that-hurt-rivers-brissett" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Colts: With Marlon Mack (Achilles) out for the year, Jonathan Taylor steps into lead role</a><br>Jonathan Taylor is the new lead back, but look for <span>Nyheim Hines</span> to earn a share of Mack's touches, as well.</p>
<p id="3hVnhZ"><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1641927&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.indystar.com%2Fstory%2Fsports%2F2020%2F09%2F14%2Fcolts-too-soon-panic-colts-awful-week-1-loss-jags%2F5798481002%2F&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.stampedeblue.com%2F2020%2F9%2F15%2F21437682%2Fcolts-news-frank-reich-takes-blame-for-play-calling-mistakes-that-hurt-rivers-brissett" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Colts: Too soon to panic about Colts' awful Week 1 loss to Jags</a><br>Yes the Colts were terrible in that loss at Jacksonville, but first games tend to be misleading – and Frank Reich tends to know which strings to pull.</p>
<p id="2767Pz"><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1641927&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Ftheathletic.com%2Fnews%2Fcolts-rb-marlon-mack-out-for-season-with-torn-achilles-sources%2FBgHCuXxAmK4V&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.stampedeblue.com%2F2020%2F9%2F15%2F21437682%2Fcolts-news-frank-reich-takes-blame-for-play-calling-mistakes-that-hurt-rivers-brissett" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Colts RB Marlon Mack out for season with torn Achilles tendon: Source - The Athletic</a><br>Running back Marlon Mack is out for the season after suffering a torn Achilles tendon in the Colts' season opener, a source tells The Athletic, confirming re...</p>
<p id="6fTCcC"><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1641927&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Ftheathletic.com%2F2066279%2F2020%2F09%2F15%2Fkravitzs-dopey-report-card-its-deja-vu-watching-the-colts-pass-defense%2F%3Fsource%3Demp_shared_article&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.stampedeblue.com%2F2020%2F9%2F15%2F21437682%2Fcolts-news-frank-reich-takes-blame-for-play-calling-mistakes-that-hurt-rivers-brissett" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Kravitz’s Dopey Report Card: It’s déjà vu watching the Colts’ pass defense – The Athletic</a><br>Jaguars quarterback Gardner Minshew has fun with the Colts by completing 19 of 20 passes for three touchdowns.</p>
<p id="iVfaoO"><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1641927&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Ftheathletic.com%2F2064590%2F2020%2F09%2F14%2Fholder-this-season-the-stakes-are-higher-for-colts-chris-ballard-frank-reich%2F%3Fsource%3Demp_shared_article&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.stampedeblue.com%2F2020%2F9%2F15%2F21437682%2Fcolts-news-frank-reich-takes-blame-for-play-calling-mistakes-that-hurt-rivers-brissett" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Holder: This season, the stakes are higher for Colts’ Chris Ballard, Frank Reich – The Athletic</a><br>This is a Colts team full of promise, with a sizable payroll, an infusion of new promising players and one with expectations.</p>
<p id="Z60Q7m"><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1641927&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Ftheathletic.com%2F2066603%2F2020%2F09%2F14%2Fcolts-rb-marlon-mack-learns-the-nfl-is-a-cold-business%2F&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.stampedeblue.com%2F2020%2F9%2F15%2F21437682%2Fcolts-news-frank-reich-takes-blame-for-play-calling-mistakes-that-hurt-rivers-brissett" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Colts RB Marlon Mack learns the NFL is a cold business – The Athletic</a><br>Mack faces the prospect of surgery and a grueling rehab after injuring his Achilles tendon Sunday against the Jaguars.</p>
<p id="M9IYXD"></p>
https://www.stampedeblue.com/2020/9/15/21437682/colts-news-frank-reich-takes-blame-for-play-calling-mistakes-that-hurt-rivers-brissettBrett Mock2020-09-14T17:00:00-04:002020-09-14T17:00:00-04:00Reflecting on Key Colts Players: Week 1 at Jacksonville
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<img alt="NFL: Indianapolis Colts at Jacksonville Jaguars" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/PGrwjd8wfYYpCwlny38ZT4Z4hrI=/0x0:3419x2279/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/67405370/usa_today_13850427.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p id="B3uHK5">The streak continues for at least one more year: The <a href="https://www.stampedeblue.com/">Colts</a> have lost to the <a href="https://www.bigcatcountry.com/">Jaguars</a> in Jacksonville for the seventh consecutive season. </p>
<p id="WM3wLd">I was wrong. You were wrong. Every analyst was wrong. </p>
<p id="rRSdw9">It’s yet another disappointing start for the <a href="https://www.stampedeblue.com/">Colts,</a> who haven’t won a week 1 game since 2013. </p>
<p id="Z6TDqg">Before Sunday’s game, I wrote a piece about one player on offense and one player on defense who I thought would be imperative to the Colts success on Sunday. To jog your memory, you can find that article <a href="https://www.stampedeblue.com/2020/9/12/21433200/key-colts-players-on-offense-and-defense-week-1">here</a>. </p>
<p id="dBbqng">The Colts blew this game big time, and the things I was most worried about appeared to be only part of a heaping pile of garbage football, with only a few bright spots in between. According to ESPN’s win probability, the Colts had a 90% chance to win the game right before they elected to go for it on 4th down inside the Jaguar’s 5 yard line. I didn’t hate going for it, but I certainly didn’t love the play call itself. </p>
<p id="DVNfiU">Regardless, let’s take a look at how my two key players performed this week. </p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="dZzZyb">
<h3 id="BmBBAi"><strong>OFFENSE</strong></h3>
<h3 id="mgz6ZZ">Player: <span>Zach Pascal</span> (WR)</h3>
<p id="VXhHzy">I picked Pascal because I wasn’t worried about the run game, and I was unsure about the confidence <span>Philip Rivers</span> would have in his receivers. Pascal had a big season last year, and really took over after <span>T.Y. Hilton</span> went down with an injury. The Colts needed a receiver to step up against the <a href="https://www.bigcatcountry.com/">Jaguars</a> and give their defense someone other than <span>Hilton</span> to worry about. </p>
<p id="TTD6Wt">Little did I know, that guy was going to be <span>Parris Campbell</span> and not <span>Zach Pascal</span>. </p>
<p id="Z5Sjso">Pascal wasn’t completely silent in the game, he did have 2 receptions for 18 yards, but got a little dinged up after blocking during a kickoff and walked gingerly to the sideline. </p>
<p id="vOo1wH">Campbell, on the other hand, was clearly <span>Rivers</span>’ favorite target in this game. Before Sunday, Campbell had played in just 7 career games with 18 receptions and 127 receiving yards. On Sunday alone, Campbell had 71 yards on 6 receptions and ended up being the Colts’ leading receiver. Based on this game, I expect that trend to continue throughout the season. </p>
<p id="E7sbX2">It was also very promising that <span>Rivers</span> completed 20 passes to 8 different receivers in the first half of the game alone. He has options, and he utilized them pretty well on Sunday. I look forward to watching him continue to spread the ball around. We just have to hope he can start limiting the interceptions. </p>
<p id="OElDY8">I would continue to look out for Pascal in future games, but it appears as though Campbell will be the number 2 guy for a while now. Certainly one of the few bright spots that I mentioned earlier. </p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="actc18">
<h3 id="4VLcG8"><strong>DEFENSE</strong></h3>
<h3 id="vIf6ka">
<span>Rock Ya-Sin</span> (CB)</h3>
<p id="RPZ1pI">I had two main reasons behind picking Ya-Sin this week. The first was because the Colts defensive line has upgraded from last season and was set to go up against unknown running backs. The second, Ya-Sin is only in his sophomore season while taking on a big role in the Colts’ secondary. </p>
<p id="Di8pPd">Ya-Sin’s performance was extremely underwhelming compared to all the hype he was receiving during the preseason. I would also like to note that no one in the secondary looked good at all. Somehow Gardner Minshew II managed 19 completions on just 20 passing attempts and 3 touchdowns. Yikes. </p>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Jaguars’ QB Gardner Minshew is the first player to ever throw at least three TD passes and complete at least 95.0 percent of his passes on Kickoff Weekend. In his last two games against the Colts, Minshew has completed 46 of 59 passes for 468 yards, six TDs and one INT.</p>— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) <a href="https://twitter.com/AdamSchefter/status/1305273196296441858?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 13, 2020</a>
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<p id="XnGIfn">Everyone in the secondary looked like a deer in headlights, and I even saw Ya-Sin trying to direct coverage assignments in the middle of the play a couple times. I was right that in order for the Colts to win, Ya-Sin needed to step up and ball out, but there was so much more to it than just his game.</p>
<p id="RNd3OS">The Colts defensive line made an undrafted rookie running back, <span>James Robinson</span>, look like a veteran. He was out there running all over the field and even hurdled over <span>Khari Willis</span> and through the arms of Anthony Walker. Unreal and unacceptable. </p>
<div id="UMwSNW">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">JAMES ROBINSON HURDLE ALERT <a href="https://t.co/uDoSC1X6JT">pic.twitter.com/uDoSC1X6JT</a></p>— PFF Fantasy Football (@PFF_Fantasy) <a href="https://twitter.com/PFF_Fantasy/status/1305227969019949056?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 13, 2020</a>
</blockquote>
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<p id="dot4R5">This defensive performance was embarrassing for a team that has high hopes for the playoffs and a regular season goal of 40 plus turnovers. If they keep this up, we are in for a long season. With the home opener against the <a href="https://www.dailynorseman.com/">Vikings</a> next Sunday, we’ll see what adjustments Frank Reich and Matt Eberflus can make this week. </p>
<p id="bvCpJE">Fingers crossed for a better performance. </p>
<p id="6F40Ef"></p>
https://www.stampedeblue.com/2020/9/14/21436763/reflecting-on-key-colts-players-week-1-at-jacksonvilleThomas Skulski2020-09-14T16:04:11-04:002020-09-14T16:04:11-04:00Colts Stock Report: Week 1 at Jaguars
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<img alt="Indianapolis Colts v Jacksonville Jaguars" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/Jb8Qkc82ysilYfJryZE7J5TFd2c=/0x237:1537x1262/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/67404958/1272292449.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Julio Aguilar/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p id="mPbCqF">The <a href="https://www.stampedeblue.com/">Indianapolis Colts</a> entered their first game of 2020 after an encouraging training camp and were receiving hype as an early AFC favorite. They faced a supposedly rebuilding <a href="https://www.bigcatcountry.com/">Jacksonville Jaguars</a> team who were starting a second-year QB and who entered the season as possible favorites to receive the top pick in the 2021 <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl-draft">NFL Draft</a>. </p>
<p id="S9kA55">While the outcome flipped that script, with Jacksonville extending their home streak against Indianapolis 27-20, not all <a href="https://www.stampedeblue.com/">Colts</a> players left the game with the same outlook as they did when they entered it. </p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="hvVJ5k">
<h3 id="wKJ5M4"><strong>Stock Up:</strong></h3>
<p id="Dmpckp">The Colts backfield received a lot of attention during the offseason but it was <span>Nyheim Hines<strong>,</strong></span><strong> </strong>not <a href="https://dknation.draftkings.com/2019/8/30/20840982/marlon-mack-fantasy-football-dfs-salary-stats-2019">Marlon Mack</a> or rookie <span>Jonathan Taylor</span>, who flashed the most on Sunday. <span>Hines</span> was thrust into a starting role after <span>Mack</span> went down injured (<a href="https://www.stampedeblue.com/2020/9/14/21436267/report-colts-rb-marlon-mack-suffers-torn-achilles">more on Mack’s injury here</a>) and did not disappoint. He finished second on the team with 7 carries, 28 rushing yards and a touchdown. He also led the team with 8 receptions for 45 yards and another touchdown. </p>
<p id="N8nl4D">Rivers is known for involving his backs in the passing game and that bodes well for Hines as the season progresses. </p>
<p id="TEtEll">Speaking of the backfield, Taylor<strong> </strong>was limited to only 26 snaps (36% of total snaps), but what he did with those opportunities was impressive. Taylor went a long way to silence concerns about his hands by catching 6 passes, which he took for 67 yards — good for second on the day behind Parris Campbell. He showed excellent burst and acceleration after the catch but added to his production with 22 rushing yards as well. </p>
<p id="7Xu7gB">Finally, Campbell was expected to have an immediate impact in the Colts offense after he was selected in the second round of the 2019 <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl-draft">NFL Draft</a>. Injuries derailed his rookie season but he showed Colts fans a glimpse of what he can do on Sunday. Campbell caught 6 passes for 71 yards and looked like the best Colts wide receiver throughout the day. There appears to be a good connection between Rivers and Campbell and it will be exciting to see how they build on their Week 1 effort as the season progresses. </p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="7FIcCv">
<h3 id="rBQqbd"><strong>Stock Down:</strong></h3>
<p id="AooeFS"><span>DeForest Buckner</span> was the Colts’ prized addition this offseason, costing the Colts their 2020 1st round draft pick an a huge contract extension. He was advertised as a terror on the interior of the defensive line and the supposed missing piece that would take the defense to the next level. He played 86% of the team’s defensive snaps and had plenty of opportunity to affect the game but his 6 total tackles and 1.5 tackles for a loss didn’t stop the Colts defense from getting around in the run game, allowing a fourth-string rookie undrafted running back to rush for 62 yards and average 3.9 yards a carry. </p>
<p id="0jOQe5"><span>Buckner</span> needs to step up and show the Colts were warranted when they invested so much to bring him to Indianapolis. </p>
<p id="iFKLin">Phillip Rivers<strong> </strong>threw for 363 yards, completed 36 out of 46 passing attempts, and added a touchdown. He led an offense that didn’t punt all game. </p>
<p id="0b8YNO">Why is Rivers on the stock down list? Because his decision making led to turnovers. </p>
<p id="lClDUa">Rivers threw two interceptions against the <a href="https://www.bigcatcountry.com/">Jaguars</a> and if it wasn’t for a defensive penalty it would of been three. The first interception was an awful throw into double coverage trying to force the ball to TY Hilton when he had Pascal open on a crossing route. The second interception was due to Rivers staring down his receiver. Rivers is as advertised, he’s a good quarterback who takes chances. Sometimes this mentality pays off. Unfortunately for the Colts, that wasn’t the case on Sunday. </p>
<p id="l5nGfA">While the Colts defense put in a poor showing, the secondary and <span>Xavier Rhodes</span> were particularly poor. <span>Rhodes</span> was brought in through free agency to replace <span>Pierre Desir</span>. Unfortunately, he looked lost and overwhelmed and was beaten often by Jaguars receivers, allowing a 152.1 passer rating, and looked to be at fault for a wide open <span>Keelan Cole</span> touchdown in the fourth quarter. </p>
<p id="ICTX9T">Rhodes was intended to be a veteran addition to the Colts secondary who would help the unit reach another level after a mediocre showing in 2019. So far, he looks like more of a problem than a solution. </p>
https://www.stampedeblue.com/2020/9/14/21436606/colts-stock-report-week-1-at-jaguarsElliot Denton-Singh2020-09-14T12:00:00-04:002020-09-14T12:00:00-04:00Colts vs Jaguars Week One Winners and Losers
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<img alt="Indianapolis Colts v Jacksonville Jaguars" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/h4ujogyz4kzdRAdApGpqFZZLkK4=/0x0:3600x2400/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/67403389/1228500127.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Don Juan Moore/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p id="nhB3eG">The sun seems to have risen today, in spite of the <a href="https://www.stampedeblue.com/">Colts</a> somewhat embarrassing loss in their opening day divisional matchup with the <a href="https://www.bigcatcountry.com/">Jacksonville Jaguars</a>. Their streak of losses in week one now extends another season, and the <a href="https://www.bigcatcountry.com/">Jaguars</a> protect their home field once again against the <a href="https://www.stampedeblue.com/">Colts</a>.</p>
<p id="EqMjxY">For a team that came out of the offseason with swagger and hype, it was a bit of a comedown to see them picked apart by <span>Gardner Minshew II</span> yet again. They also saw <span>Philip Rivers</span> do what he always has done—when he’s pressed to carry the team, he can make some really dumb throws that end up as picks. There was even a missed chip shot field goal to top it all off. So, let’s get into the winners and losers from the week.</p>
<h2 id="LlyI3Z">Winners</h2>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="Indianapolis Colts v Jacksonville Jaguars" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/bwM042TWZW_5nRr9ElHTXY-z6hM=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/21879523/1272293482.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Sam Greenwood/Getty Images</cite>
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<h4 id="trcJbZ"><span>Nyheim Hines</span></h4>
<p id="VeiECe">If you didn’t believe everyone when they told you that <span>Rivers</span> was going to throw to the running backs, here was your proof. <span>Nyheim Hines</span> caught 8 passes for 45 yards and a score, as well as carrying the ball 7 times for 28 yards. He had himself a very nice day, and looked like a guy who is ready to take on a big role in this team’s offense. One could argue that he had no business being the team’s go-to back in short yardage on 4<sup>th</sup> and 1 (and I myself made that argument when it happened), but it speaks to Frank Reich’s trust in Hines and desire to carve out a significant role for him. This is going to be a big year for Nyheim Hines.</p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="Indianapolis Colts v Jacksonville Jaguars" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/V_3z8tUoKS_FM1ATrd5NOHoIgUo=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/21879524/1272311724.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Sam Greenwood/Getty Images</cite>
</figure>
<h4 id="dC5WOp"><span>Parris Campbell</span></h4>
<p id="RCvMSa">In the first half, Campbell presented a very clear issue for the Jaguars defense. He looked exactly like we all hoped he would last year. His speed and explosiveness were immediately on display, and it was clear that <span>Rivers</span> has built a chemistry with the young receiver. With time and repetitions, we’ll likely see these two get an even better rhythm, and if they can take just a tiny step forward, Campbell is going to be a nightmare for many defenses. He has game-breaking ability and injected an excitement into the Colts offense that has been notably absent (apart from <span>Hilton)</span> at the receiver position. He just needs to cut out the flexing.</p>
<h2 id="3tJIck">Losers</h2>
<h4 id="SQ7792"><a href="https://dknation.draftkings.com/2019/8/30/20840982/marlon-mack-fantasy-football-dfs-salary-stats-2019">Marlon Mack</a></h4>
<p id="Cy8C7P">A loss to a bad Jaguars team is bad enough, but the real loss came when <span>Marlon Mack</span> came up hobbled after a play, grabbing at his ankle. He was carted off and word soon came that the team fears a torn Achilles tendon which would end his season. Before he left, <span>Mack</span> looked as though he was set to pick up where he left off in 2019, gashing defenses on the ground and adding a passing element to his game. He had already caught 3 passes for 30 yards in just the first half of play. For a guy in a contract year who has steadily gotten better and was one of the few bright spots for the team in 2019, this is a truly crushing blow. Hopefully he is able to recover quickly and return to his previous form.</p>
<h4 id="tywfsX"><span>Malik Hooker</span></h4>
<p id="PsamwH">While it is somewhat unfair to single out any defenders in this game given how poorly they all played, <span>Hooker</span> is a player who, like Mack, is in a contract year. When the team chose not to pick up Hooker’s fifth year option, they signaled that they would move on from their first-round safety barring a real breakout season. It will take a full viewing of the All-22 film to determine how his game was as a whole, but for a guy who needed a hot start to his season, getting burned by rookie <span>Laviska Shenault Jr.</span> for a touchdown is not what he wanted. </p>
<h4 id="kgmurN"><span>DeForest Buckner</span></h4>
<p id="hsnrXx">When you use a first-round pick on a player, there are certain expectations. For example, the Jaguars rookie CB C.J. Henderson had an impressive debut, making impacts all over the field in critical situations. The Colts spent their first-round pick on a player who is entering his prime and has proven his potential as an All-Pro player. So when a game goes by without seeing real impact from him, that is a disappointment. As with Hooker, the film will tell the story far better than first impressions can, but you expect big, game-changing plays from your star defensive lineman. The Colts need that if they are going to win games in 2020.</p>
<h4 id="kxJXMN"><span>T.Y. Hilton</span></h4>
<p id="KN3Kjp">It is an oversimplification to say that the team goes as Hilton goes, but it seems one that is often true. Hilton didn’t have a good game Sunday. With just 4 receptions on 9 targets, his contribution was simply not enough. The killers were his drops on two critical possessions, including one that sealed the game. Up against a rookie corner, Hilton has to win that battle. He’ll come out of it fired up to improve, but it was a tough start for the Colts receiver.</p>
<h4 id="WKReI4">Matt Eberflus</h4>
<p id="toux1e">This is another example of the defense showing up asleep at the wheel. Ultimately that falls on Eberflus’ shoulders. That this is one of the most well-rounded personnel groups the team has had on defense would have been pretty hard to glean based on anything we saw on Sunday. The Colts defense has set a goal of 40 takeaways for the season, and there was no point where they even felt like a threat to generate one on Sunday. The Colts defense gave free releases to receivers, and healthy cushions to sit down in all day long. Gardner Minshew didn’t have pressure in the pocket, and he didn’t have tough throws to make, either. Given the amount of time and preparation this team had for this game, that is a major disappointment.</p>
<h4 id="gYIQws">Frank Reich</h4>
<p id="O7yVZF">Before you react strongly one way or the other on this designation, know that I am not on board with anyone trying to peddle the nonsensical idea that Frank Reich is a bad coach. He absolutely isn’t. You can tell some of that by how well the game script went off to start. The offense looked incredible over the first couple of drives, and I momentarily wondered if it might turn into a boat race. </p>
<p id="owj8GF">Unfortunately, as has happened often in the Reich era, once that game script runs out, things can sometimes stall. This is partly due to lack of plays being made, but can largely be laid also at the feet of the guy calling those plays. Reich made some head-scratching calls, like trotting out Nyheim Hines to go for it on 4<sup>th</sup> and 1. I loved going for it, but if you had the pick of every back on the Colts roster, Hines would be my last choice for that job. </p>
<p id="dLDAVs">To Reich’s credit, he also did some great things. His play call to throw to Doyle on 4<sup>th</sup> down at midfield took guts, and he consistently went for it on 4<sup>th</sup> down. He got his skill players involved in the game all over the board, and the offense never really looked like the biggest issue for the team. However, losing another opener, and a road game in Jacksonville has been a trend, and one that he can’t let continue. Better days are ahead for this team, and Reich will be a big part of that, but he gets an L for letting his team come out and play so flat against an inferior opponent.</p>
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https://www.stampedeblue.com/2020/9/14/21436045/colts-vs-jaguars-week-one-winners-and-losersChris Blystone