Colts vs. Raiders: Defensive post-game grades

The Colts were able to get out of Oakland with a 42-28 win, but it was no thanks to the defense. They couldn’t stop the Raiders’ offense. Here is how each unit graded out.

Defense has actually been one of the Colts’ strong suits for most of the season. That was not the case on Sunday, as they gave up 28 points to the Raiders. But at the end of the game, they made a play when they needed it the most. Here are the grades for each individual unit.

The defensive line didn’t have their best game of the year. They couldn’t get any pressure on the quarterback at all. Derek Carr had all the time in the world and was able to sit in the pocket as long as he wanted to. The line also didn’t stop the running game very well. Not a great game for this unit.

Darius Leonard is by far the best player on this defense. He showed everyone why he will be a Pro-Bowl selection at the end of the game by forcing a fumble late in the game. He is a great player and always seems to make plays around the ball. The other linebackers were just okay. Zaire Franklin dropped an interception, and that later led to a touchdown. The unit can get better.

The Colts secondary did not have a good game. They were constantly beat deep down the field and didn’t make any plays on the ball. They were hampered by injuries, as Malik Hooker was out and Mike Mitchell had to leave the game as well. But this unit almost cost the Colts the game. They owe the offense a big thank you.

The Colts have a bye week coming up, and the defense needs it. They can use it to get healthy. That health should improve the play of the entire defense.