“Saturday”

Intriguing Game: NFL, Week 15

New England Patriots at Indianapolis Colts

Patriots: As I was watching that game against the Buffalo Bills a few weeks back, I was shocked one bit at the game plan they came out with. When the weather is a major factor (as it was), it’s tough to throw the ball, especially when it’s cold and windy. The football is also slick and tough for receivers to catch in those elements. Mac Jones only threw the football a total of three times in that game. You read that correctly. The Patriots ran the ball a total of 46 times and it worked in their favor. This is what I always say about them. They don’t necessarily have an identity. Instead, they base their game plan on the defense’s struggle. So in other words, if you struggle in pass coverage, they will beat you with the passing attack or struggle with the run? They’ll run the ball down your throat until you can stop it. Matthew Judon has become a spark for this entire defense. This is something they haven’t had since the season when Darrelle Revis was there. Though New England has one of the best defenses in the league, they still have that bend, don’t break mentality. You can run the ball and get a few big plays here and there down the field. However, once they get into the red zone, they will clamp down and make a stop. I don’t think many expected the Patriots to be where they are now at this moment. Tonight, they will face a Colts team fighting for playoff positioning.

Colts: With the way they started, you couldn’t sit here and convince me they would come remotely close to being in the playoff picture. Even when they were 1-4, I kept saying they were much better than the record implied. Their opening start to the season was a tough one and I don’t know if many would survive that stretch. The Seahawks, Rams, Titans, and Ravens? All four of those teams I mentioned all made the postseason a year ago. How have the Colts been able to get back into playoff contention? Three reasons. The first is a stingy defense that’s been amongst one of the best in the league this year. They’re a physical group that can get those key takeaways and makes stops to get off the field. The second is Carson Wentz settling in and if there were a coach to revive him, it was Frank Reich without question. Remember, Frank was the offensive coordinator for the Eagles the year they won the Super Bowl. Lastly, it’s been the Jonathan Taylor show! Say it with me: You better have game if you have two first names! He’s been everything to the Colts offense and has emerged as a legit MVP candidate. JT has accounted for 18 total touchdowns this year (16 rushing and two receiving). The one issue I have with them though is the up and downplay of the quarterback. I’ve seen Carson play exceptionally well in the first half of games, but disappear in the second half. They’ll be under the lights for some “Saturday Night Football”.

Patriots X-Factor: Kendrick Bourne– He’s been a serviceable option in the passing game. Kendrick was one of the first pieces that the team signed in free agency. What I like about his game is how much effort he puts into running once the ball hits his hands. Kendrick has the strength to stay up on his feet and power through. Some receivers choose not to do that or they don’t try hard enough.

Colts X-Factor: Kwity Paye– I followed him while he was at Michigan and was excited when the Colts drafted him in the Spring. It’s the motor he plays with. Kwity always has his feet ready and even when you think you’ve blocked him out of the play, he’s still trying to get to the ball. He can force the fumble, rush the passer, and gets by blockers with ease. His speed off the snap is also something to watch for.

Final Thoughts: This is a rivalry that goes back. Also, this is what started the Tom Brady and Peyton Manning showdowns in the early 2000s. There’s a ton of memories between these teams. AFC title games, Belichick’s infamous 4th and 2 call and so many more. Now, it’s a new chapter. Mac will have to throw the ball more than three times without question. Whenever you think of New England’s defense, what do they do best? Take away your best weapon. They will close up Taylor’s running lanes. The Colts can counterattack that by getting him involved on screen passes and other ways. This comes down to which Wentz shows up because the Patriots will force him to take the game over with his arm. Consistency will be key for the quarterback. I see this being a highly tactical game with methodical drives.

Prediction: Patriots 23, Colts 17

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