The Colts Actually Win a Preseason Game!

As I scurry about my apartment on this Friday morning, doing the dishes and folding laundry, I couldn’t be happier.  There are reasons to be upset – like how I just lost all my shows that I had recorded on DVR – but I can not complain, because last night  the Indianapolis Colts actually won a preseason game! And they looked GOOD doing it.

The main story line of the Colts 23-15 victory over the Philadelphia Eagles has to be quarterback Peyton Manning.  After last weeks dismal perfomance against the Vikings (a typical preseason loss) Manning complained about getting more playing time and more reps with the offense.  Last night Manning got his wish, playing nearly the whole first quarter, and did he ever make the most of it.

Manning returned to vintage form last night, putting perfect touch on the ball, threading the needle over the middle and making throws with pinpoint accuracy.  He finished the night 10 for 14 with 167 and two touchdowns, all in under 11 minutes of playing time.

My wife and I went to the game (thanks to the in-laws, who have season tickets) and we were not dissapointed.  The Colts won the toss, elected to receive and came out more eager to attack than a tour bus of senior citizens hitting the local casino.  Manning immediately lit it up, driving the Colts down the field and hitting Anthony Gonzalez (on the third try) for a short touchdown.  It was set up by a brilliant pass to Jospeh Addai that set up the first down inside the 10 yard line.

After an ugly sack and lost fumble, the Colts defense – who also played rather well for having several starters out – got the ball back after Dwight Freeney forced a Donovan McNabb fumble.   Manning went back to work and immeditately hit Reggie Wayne deep down the left sideline for a 76 yard score.  It looked as if Wayne might get tackled at about the 10 yard line, but he made a nice move, cut back in and dove into the endzone for the touchdown.

And that was it.  Three drives, two touchdowns and Manning was done.

The Colts continued to play well as Curtis Painter led them the rest of the way.  The Colts did allow a touchdown to McNabb in the first quarter, but then settled in and played very well, forcing another fumble and locking the Eagles offense down.  Several field goals later the Colts had a nice lead and were able to hold on for the win.  A rarity for the Colts in the preseason.

More game notes in a later post, but for now, great win and … GO COLTS !!!