The Colts lost to the Buffalo Bills in the first round of the AFC playoffs last Saturday 27-24. Colts put up some big yardage numbers but the Bills had the momentum. So the season is over for the team. For the most part, 2020 was a success. The Colts built a strong offense and a much-improved defense, which led to an 11-5 record and second place in the AFC South.and a 10th place in the power rankings.
Chris Ballard brought in some major talent this year. The DeForest Buckner trade was huge, particularly since Buckner was an All Pro at Defensive Tackle and set a team record for sacks from tackles with 9.6. Signing Xavier Rhodes helped stabilize the left cornerback position. However the Philip Rivers acquisition was the key. Rivers had one of his best seasons. He brought leadership and passing skills that the team desperately needed at quarterback, even with a less-than-stellar receiving corp. I was a doubter but he convinced me that he was the answer at quarterback for the Colts in 2020. Coach Reich wants him back in 2021.
As to the rookies, of course Jonathan Taylor came through with an explosive second half of the season to help the team into the playoffs and make the all rookie team. Michael Pittman Jr. came through with some big catches. He dropped a few too but he could be a big man at wideout for the Colts. Julian Blackmon gave some stability to the free safety position.
With Anthony Castonzo’s retirement, finding his replacement at left tackle becomes the number one priority in the off season either through the draft or free agency. Quentin Nelson may be moved to the position from left guard where he has been All Pro since coming into the league, but that remains to be seen. An outside pass rusher is needed and a big play wideout in case TY Hilton is not re-signed. So the roster is far from complete. But the foundation is there.
snicewanger@yahoo.com