The Indianapolis Colts are entering Week 11 of the 2016 NFL season with a major need for a win. They won’t have an easy task getting that win, as they will take on the Tennessee Titans. Both teams are fresh off of a big win over the Green Bay Packers and are very much in the mix for the AFC South, even though the Houston Texans are widely viewed as the favorites to win the division.
Andrew Luck has been playing at an MVP level this season and has put to rest any doubts that he would come back strong after his injuries last season. He is working his way into the superstar category with each passing week. That should be the case once again this week, as the Titans are not known for pass defense.
That being said, the Colts have to come away with a win this week. Entering the season with a 4-5 record, the Colts have to capitalize off the momentum that they have from beating Green Bay. Tennessee will be looking to do the exact same thing, but the Colts are widely viewed as the better team on paper.
All of that being said, what three keys must the Colts focus on in order to come away with a win this week?
Colts: Won 10 straight vs Titans
Titans: Won 4 of 6, averaging 33.7 ppgThey meet Week 11
"It's playoff football" https://t.co/1eygAQQ1yp pic.twitter.com/CspAVcGW2a— NFL (@NFL) November 17, 2016
Get Frank Gore Established Early
While all of the hype will surround Andrew Luck, the Colts’ offense is never playing at its best unless Frank Gore is engaged early. Gore is capable of making big plays both on the ground as well as a receiver out of the backfield. Indianapolis has to be confident in their ground game in order to help open up bigger opportunities for Luck through the air.
Put Pressure on Marcus Mariota
Tennessee has to be very pleased with the play of second-year quarterback Marcus Mariota. It is obvious that he is settling into a comfort zone, which the Colts need to destroy this week. Indianapolis has to send pressure at Mariota early and often this week and hope to force a key mistake or two.
Take Care of the Football
If the Colts focus on the first two points and take care of the football, they will be in great shape to win this week’s game. Andrew Luck is going to put up big numbers, but he has to do so without turning the football over. Indianapolis cannot afford to help the Titans out with good field position or extra possessions this week.
Expect to see these AFC South rivals bring a bit extra to the field this week. This game could have major playoff implications for both teams at the end of the season.
