Colts’ underutilization of Nyheim Hines has been criminal

Why hasn’t Nyheim Hines been a focal point for the Colts’ offense?

It’s evident Indianapolis Colts offensive coordinator Nick Siranni has been doing his best to distribute the pigskin to as many players as possible since the team doesn’t exactly have any workhorses or superstars on that side of the ball.

But you’d think that anyone proving they can make plays would help tips the scales, right? Well, not really!

Running back Nyheim Hines has touched the ball in limited fashion this season and has shown flashes of greatness, yet he’s consistently not a main focal point in the offensive game plans, and it’s safe to say Indy fans have had enough.

This guy can run the ball (when given the chance) and receive at a high level, and he’s proving that in primetime on Thursday night against the Tennessee Titans.

What more does Frank Reich and Co. need to see? Everyone knows he was never an astute rusher (he averages 3.6 yards per carry for his career), but that’s because most of his contributions come in the passing game. Mix it up with Hines and you’ll get him gashing defenders on the ground. It’s all about the utilization and change of pace.

Hines’ season-high 15 touches came in Week 1 against the Jacksonville Jaguars and his next highest was 12 against the Chicago Bears in Week 4. Since then? He’s totaled 22 touches over the last four games — which is a colossal oversight — but that all changed tonight.

The birthday boy has been shredding the Titans both on the ground and through the air, totaling six rushes for 37 yards and six receptions for 47 yards and a touchdown in just 30 minutes of work.

There’s no doubt Siranni’s generous offensive system has helped benefit Hines, but the 24-year-old’s athleticism and playmaking abilities are as clear as day. He needs to be involved more, and this is now the THIRD time this year fans are calling for it.

We think it’s time Reich and Siranni take a hint and allow the shifty back to provide relief for Jonathan Taylor and Jordan Wilkins, both of whom have been inconsistent despite getting a majority of the touches.

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