Here’s why Colts’ offensive line is prepared for Browns despite Anthony Castonzo injury

The Colts have a tough matchup against the Browns, but don’t rule them out.

Despite being decimated by injuries, the Indianapolis Colts have managed to kick off the season 3-1 and possess the best defense as well as one of the top offensive lines in the NFL.

However, the O-line will be without left tackle Anthony Castonzo against the Cleveland Browns on Sunday and the defense could be without both Darius Leonard and Anthony Walker. Two big problems, right?

Well, the defense has actually held up admirably without Leonard for the entire second half against the Chicago Bears last week and have a number of other playmakers who are able to get the job done in the meantime. As for the O-line, well, missing Castonzo will be a big disadvantage, but did we forget who these guys are going up against at practice?

The Colts’ offensive line already faces some of the best pass rushers in the NFL when they practice against DeForest Buckner and Justin Houston. Do you really think they’re not ready to go up against Myles Garrett? Previously, the unit has had to prepare for stars like Yannick Ngakoue, JJ Watt, Jadeveon Clowney, Jurrell Casey and Harold Landry.

Garrett is tremendous, but it’s not like he blows these guys out of the water. It’s all very much similar competition. Plus, in 2020, the Colts’ front four applies some of the best pressure in the NFL, so that’s a look the O-line is constantly seeing leading up to game day.

And they’ll have Leonard cheering them on from the sidelines. He probably has some good insight from a defensive perspective to help them out, too.

So before you start bugging out about Garrett potentially creating a matchup nightmare against Le’Raven Clark, this is a big sub-plot to take note of. Additionally, Garrett lines up mostly against the opposing team’s right tackle, and we’d bet the reliable Braden Smith is ready for the challenge. And if you think Indy isn’t going to use Mo Alie-Cox to help double Garrett, then you’re not paying enough attention.

The Colts will be just fine against the Browns. It’ll be all about managing the game properly and executing. It sounds easier said than done, but it’s not like they’ll be facing the Kansas City Chiefs without their entire secondary. This is a winnable game despite the unfavorable circumstances.

Colts could actually luck out with Myles Garrett’s defensive alignment

The Indianapolis Colts will be tasked with blocking Myles Garrett without Anthony Castonzo, but this key stat proves they might not be in as much trouble.