Colts Dismantle Jaguars for First Win of Season, 44-17

The Indianapolis Colts (1-2) thoroughly dominated Sunday’s game at the Jacksonville Jaguars (0-3). Both teams were hungry for a win, but the Colts proved they were still the class of the AFC South after the 44-17 win.

The Colts rode a 30-0 halftime lead to an easy victory.

Indy controlled the entire first half and held the ball for over 21 minutes of play. The Jaguars managed just 55 yards of total offense and didn’t cross midfield. The Jags didn’t get a first down until inside a minute to play, and immediately fumbled the ball away.

The Colts found something resembling a pass rush against a rebuilt offensive line with four sacks and seven QB hits. The Colts also had three takeaways on defense and no turnovers on offense.

Jacksonville made a switch at quarterback to rookie Blake Bortles and immediately started moving the ball in the second half. Bortles was 12-of-24 for 223 yards, two touchdowns, and two interceptions.

Andrew Luck was sharp all afternoon after a rough start to the season. He was 31-for-39 for 370 yards and four touchdowns, tying a career high.

T.Y. Hilton was productive with five receptions for 80 yards, but injured his ankle just before halftime. He didn’t return in the second half, but wasn’t needed with such a large lead.

Dwayne Allen got more attention this week, hauling in four receptions for 43 yards and a touchdown.

Hakeem Nicks had four receptions for 50 yards and a touchdown. Nine different players had multiple receptions for the Colts today.

Coby Fleener had a solid day with four receptions for 49 yards and a touchdown. His drop problem continued as he lost a couple of easy ones, including a wide open touchdown reception.

Ahmad Bradshaw continued to prove that he is by far the Colts best running back. He had nine carries for 65 yards, good for 7.2 yards per attempt. He also had two catches for 18 yards and a touchdown.

Rookie wide receiver Donte Moncrief was able to get on the field for extra snaps today and looked great every time he touched the ball.

Cornerback Greg Toler capped off the game with an interception return for 47 yards for a touchdown.

While the Colts desperately needed a big win, the Jaguars are not exactly a quality opponent. Anything less that today’s result would have been disappointing. It is hard to take much away from this game other than a win.

Up next, the Colts will host the Tennessee Titans.