On a day when the Indianapolis Colts offense accounted for over 500 yards, the defense was the story of the game. The Colts dominated the Cincinnati Bengals in every phase of the game en route to a 27-0 victory.
The Bengals managed just eight first downs and were held to just 1-for-13 on third down conversions. They also managed just 135 total yards of offense.
The Colts even suffered from some controversy on defense.
Outside linebacker Erik Walden was kicked out of the game just before halftime after making illegal contact with an official. Video replay showed that Walden’s hand contacted the officials as both points at something while the official had a firm grip on Walden’s shoulder.
The Colts managed to dominate the best pass protection in the NFL to the tune of four sacks and nine more QB hits. Andy Dalton was never able to find success and when he found time he saw nine of his passes knocked to the ground by Colts defenders.
On offense, the Colts seemed to struggle at times and suffered from two lost fumbles on promising drives.
Andrew Luck continued his dominant season and passed for over 300 yards for the fifth game in a row. He was 27-for-42 for 344 yards and two touchdowns. With games still to play, Luck leads the NFL with 19 touchdowns.
Trent Richardson had one of his most impressive games in a Colts uniform. While he didn’t find the end zone, he did have 77 yards rushing off 14 carries. Richardson also four receptions for 41 yards. He left the game early with what appeared to be a hamstring injury.
T.Y. Hilton continued making secondaries look foolish. The Bengals apparently didn’t watch tape of last weeks performance against the Texans as Hilton seven receptions for 107 yards.
Tight end Dwayne Allen looked like the defensive matchup nightmare that he can be this week. He only had three receptions, but they went for 52 yards and a touchdown.
Ahmad Bradshaw added to his growing legacy as a pass catcher in the red zone. He had three more receptions for 36 yards and a touchdown. He also 52 yards off 10 carries and another touchdown.
Reggie Wayne extend his streak of games with three receptions or more with a four catch effort, but it was for just 15 yards. He also appeared to hurt his left arm early in the game and the injury remains to be seen.
The Colts will face another AFC North opponent next week when the head to Pittsburgh to face the Steelers.