Colts’ Studs and Duds, Week 2 at Washington
By Mateo Caliz
The Colts won 21-9 at Washington in what was the best Indianapolis team win in a while. From top to bottom the whole squad performed at a great level. For this week, there truly are no “duds”, so the focus this entry will be on the Colts that really excelled throughout the game.
Colts’ Stud #1 of the Game: Darius Leonard, linebacker.
The second round pick out of SC State absolutely balled out on Sunday. Leonard posted one of the best games out of a Colts’ linebacker this past decade and perhaps one of the top performances for a rookie.
After a solid debut in Week 1, Leonard exploded and was all over the field at Washington. The Maniac racked up 18 total tackles, a sack, a pass deflection and a forced fumble on Jordan Reed that was key to closing out the game.
His exploits should be enough to get him DPOTW and also should put him in the spotlight for DROY, if he continues his current form. So far he is leading the entire NFL in tackles with 27 through 2 games.
Colts’ Stud #2 of the Game: T.Y Hilton, wide receiver.
Though he did not post a monster game statistically wise, Hilton still performed like his old self against a tough Washington secondary. T.Y ended the game as the leading Colts’ receiver by a mile with 7 catches for 83 yards and a score.
His chemistry with Luck will only develop more game after game so big things can be expected from him (good thing I have him on my Fantasy Team).
Hilton was involved in every single Colts’ drive that lasted more than 5 plays, a key stat as to the importance of the Ghost to the Colts offense. He also drew a big pass interference flag on Moreau.
Colts’ Stud #3 of the Game: The defensive line
Coming off a loss where the d-line collapsed on the second half, this week they held strong through all the game.
The Redskins did not score a single touchdown and ended up scoring in single digits, something the Colts defense had not achieved since Week 15 of the 2016 season against the Vikings.
The defensive line, featuring Jabaal Sheard and Margus Hunt, ended the game with 6.5 tackles for loss and 5 quarterback hits (3 sacks).
Washington’s running back where held to just 22 yards on 16 carries (1.3 YPC).