Hooker and Defense Come Through When it Matters

Yes, the Colts have moved themselves to the 6 seed in the Conference, and yes, they have won their last three games, but there was something extra special about this victory.

The Colts defense was struggling. More specifically, the Colts pass defense was struggling. This struggle was occurring against a team that just a week ago was unable to score a single point, a team that has an aging Eli Manning and was without their best wide receiver in Odell Beckham Jr.

But on Sunday, up until the last few minutes of the game, they were having their way with the Colts. Manning picked them apart on numerous occasions, and it looked like the Colts just did not have an answer. And then it came… when the game came down to the wire, the Colts defense stepped up to the plate, just like they have so many times this season.

Yet even better, it was the game-sealing interception by Malik Hooker that reminded us just how special this Colts team is. At times this season Hooker has seemed to be invisible, having very little impact in many games, and the same could have been said on Sunday. Until the play. A Manning lob down the middle of the field created that nervous feeling until Hooker perfectly timed it up and sealed the deal.

It was once again a reminder of not only how special this defense is, but how special these individuals are as well. We have seen this defense come up big so many times in big moments, whether it be Leonard forcing game ending fumbles in Washington and Oakland, or plays like the one Hooker made yesterday. It has just been that kind of season… a season that could best be summed up as special.

It will be very easy for people to get caught up in the fact that the Colts control their own destiny, and that’s okay. As Colts fans it is exciting to finally have a chance to go back to the playoffs after so many years of waiting. But it is also going to be important not to lose sight of what is to come.

This game was special for many reasons, but ultimately was special for who made the play when it was needed from the team. Malik Hooker did not let the past few games affect his play, and he came through to give the Colts their most thrilling win of the season.

And immediately after the interception, as they have done all season, Hooker and the defense – joined by players like Brissett and Vinatieri – ran down and posed at the end zone. Pagano instilled a sense of family during his time in Indy, and it has definitely stuck, with Coach Reich only making it stronger. And if the Colts can take care of business against Tennessee, this family is going to the playoffs.