Key for Colts vs. Texans will be offensive line

Both teams come into Sunday desperate for a win. But the key for the Colts in this matchup will be their offensive line.

If the Colts want to win on Sunday, their offensive line needs to play well. They haven’t been a healthy unit all year long. They will have at least one backup out there at right tackle while Joe Haeg is out. But they have to control the Texans on the pass rush.

The Colts have to know where J.J. Watt is at all times. They probably need to double team him to make sure he can’t get home to Andrew Luck. Even though Watt has missed the bulk of the last two seasons, he is still one of the best defensive players in the league.

It’s important for the offensive line to do well in pass coverage, but it’s equally important for them to play well in run blocking as well. They need to be able to open up holes so the Colts don’t have to rely on the passing game the whole time.

The jury is out whether or not Anthony Castonzo is going to be back this week. He finally practiced yesterday on a limited basis. The Colts have done everything possible to not rush him back, but he needs to show some progress at some point.

Luck understands that the offensive line is a big key to him being able to throw it deep. Getting that protection allows him to feel more comfortable taking deep shots so the offense can get more chunk plays. That is also a big key to the Colts winning this game.

Keep an eye on the injury report this afternoon to see if Castonzo is able to practice once again. The Colts would love to have him Sunday.