Colts’ running backs are the best part of offense

There’s no doubt that this has become a run-first football team. Next season will be all about utilizing the talents of the three main guys better.

Marlon Mack had a stellar year last season, rushing for over 1,000 yards. Unfortunately, he broke his hand and had to miss a few games. What was also unfortunate was his lack of help from the other members of the offense. The running game carried the team.

The same might happen next season too. Mack will have to be great again for this team to go places. What might help him is running more to the right side. The Colts ran to the left side way more than the right side last year, and it was very predictable.

Part of that is because they have Quenton Nelson on the left side, and he is a beast. But they need to run right to keep the defense honest. They also need to run more play-action so the running game has a better chance of succeeding. They didn’t run enough of those plays this season.

Jordan Wilkins showed an ability to run tough in between the tackles and have some breakaway runs. He should get more carries next season as his role continues to grow in this offense. Mack should still get the bulk of the carries though.

Mack should be used more as a receiver too. Nyheim Hines is the back that they use in passing situations, and it’s very obvious. Leaving Mack in there on passing plays and throwing him the ball a few times gives some variety to the offense and makes it less predictable.

It will be interesting to see how the Colts use the offseason to improve the use of their backs. If they utilize them properly, the offense will put up better numbers in 2020.