The Colts will be watching the remainder of the playoffs from home after losing last Saturday. But as we continue to recap the season, we move on to the most improved unit on the team.
Last year was an unmitigated disaster for the Colts. They only won 4 games and couldn’t do anything right. But things changed this season, as several units improved dramatically. But one unit improved the most out of any, and they were the key to the season.
The offensive line was a revelation. After having a rough start with injuries, the line banded together and played great at the end of the season. They allowed a league low 18 sacks this season. Keeping Andrew Luck upright was key for them all throughout the year.
Pass blocking wasn’t the only thing the line did well. They also were able to run block well. Marlon Mack was a force when he came back from injury, and a big reason for that was the holes he was running through. The offensive line dominated the line of scrimmage.
Last year, this unit was terrible. They allowed Jacoby Brissett to get sacked a league-high 56 times. They knew they couldn’t do that again. Drafting Quenton Nelson with the 6th overall pick and taking Braden Smith in the second round helped make sure of that.
With those young guys on the line, the Colts made fantastic strides along the offensive line. Luck was able to set career highs in several statistics and Marlon Mack set a franchise postseason record with his 148 yards rushing in Houston in the wild card round.
This unit was definitely the most improved on the team, and should only continue to get better as their young guys get stronger. This unit will likely be one of the top units next year too and should be for years to come.