Manning must play both sides of the ball
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by Mojokong
NFL Pre-Season Power Rankings (one at a time)
2. Indianapolis Colts: The more I think about this team the more I don’t think they should be number two in my power rankings. They did win the super bowl and they have most of that team back so I guess it’s not that much of a stretch but the Colts seem less explosive coming into this season.
Concerns on offense are minimal. The offense is always the Rolls Royce of the league and it shouldn’t be much different this season. Not having a solid second RB like Dominic Rhodes might become a factor especially if Addai ends up on the DL at all. Drafting the speed burner Gonzalez as their 3 rd WR makes a lot of sense to be that Brandon Stokely, down field threat the Colts like having in the slot. The line always protects their franchise arm and Addai is a strong runner who hits the holes quickly. Dallas Clark has the best mustache in the NFL when he grows it out. Who ever heard of a cop as a TE? He looks like a Reno 911 character.
Defensively they have some glaring issues. With the recent release of Corey Simon and the torn patella tendon of Booger McFarland leaves this team with a thin rotation at a pivotal run-stopping position. Cato June’s departure leaves Gary Brackett as the only decent LB they have. Both corners are gone from last year. Marlin Jackson, who I have always liked, could step in and be pretty good. 3rd round pick Hughes may see more playing time than most rookie corners due to the lack of depth at that spot.
Overall, there is lot to worry about for this Colt defense. I see a plenty of gashing runs up the middle and veteran receivers toasting their young corners. It’s a good thing Peyton can score in the upper 20’s a game to protect slim leads that the defense won’t always ensure. The Colts are not a young team really and injuries could be more significant to this season than for most other teams. Having said all that, Peyton is good enough to win Super Bowls alone so we’ll give them the 2 spot for now, but they have a lot to prove to me.
