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Colts 2019 season preview: Offense

By Ryan Stano

CINCINNATI, OHIO - AUGUST 29: Aca'Cedric Ware #38 of the Indianapolis Colts is tackled by the Cincinnati Bengals while running with the ball during the second quarter of a preseason game at Paul Brown Stadium on August 29, 2019 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Silas Walker/Getty Images) (Photo by Silas Walker/Getty Images)
CINCINNATI, OHIO - AUGUST 29: Aca'Cedric Ware #38 of the Indianapolis Colts is tackled by the Cincinnati Bengals while running with the ball during the second quarter of a preseason game at Paul Brown Stadium on August 29, 2019 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Silas Walker/Getty Images) (Photo by Silas Walker/Getty Images) /
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With Sunday being the first week of the season, it’s time we did an in depth preview of all phases of the game. First up; the Colts offense.

The Colts offense has been the strong point of the team for the better part of a decade. They have always had superior quarterback play and have used that to power their way to victory. But that is no longer the case for the first time since 1997. They won’t have an elite quarterback this season.

That changes how good this offense can be this season. Jacoby Brissett deserves to be a starting quarterback, but he isn’t elite. He’s probably a top-20 guy at best. Because of that, the rest of the offense is going to need to step up to help the new franchise quarterback.

Chief among the people who need to step up are the players on the offensive line. They were great at the end of last year and only allowed 18 sacks on the season. They have to be at least that good this season to give Brissett a chance. In the run game, they have to be even better.

Marlon Mack is also a big piece of that run game. He is a dynamic back who has burst and surprising strength. The key with him has always been his health. If he is healthy, he can be a big time playmaker for this offense. He has to step up his game this year more than any other year in his career.

Jack Doyle is back after missing most of last season with a myriad of injuries. He should help with the blocking on this team, and has a reliable set of hands. He should be among Brissett’s favorite targets, as should Eric Ebron. Both tight ends will be key.

The wide receiver room might be underrated this season. T.Y. Hilton is always solid. Devin Funchess gets his last chance at proving he can be a reliable receiver in this league. If he plays well, this could be a dangerous group. Parris Campbell’s speed will be key as well.

Next. Expectations for the Colts have now changed. dark

Overall, this offense will be worse than last year, simply because they no longer have Andrew Luck. But how much they drop off remains to be seen. If Brissett can be above average, this team might not be in as bad of shape as people seem to think they are.

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