It took them much longer than expected, but the Indianapolis Colts finally got their first win of the season. It was a gritty, non-perfect performance against another team desperate for some momentum, but a win nonetheless.
The Colts are now just one game behind the Jacksonville Jaguars in the AFC South race. And, while it's still way too early to jump to conclusions, they're not that far behind so-called contenders for a postseason berth.
As a matter of fact, the Colts might actually be the best team in the conference among those with a 1-2 record. As things stand now, they might be the only ones with a legitimate chance to play after Week 18.
Where do the Indianapolis Colts rank among 1-2 AFC teams?
3. New York Jets
With all due respect, the New York Jets have been, are, and probably will be one of the worst teams in football. Names and players may change, but they still don't have what it takes to win games sustainably, as shown by their two avoidable losses this season.
Aaron Glenn's team is trending in the right direction, but they still don't know how to close out games. They could've been 3-0 by now with better game and clock management, but their late-game execution has left plenty to be desired.
Also, how long can Geno Smith keep this going? Even if he wasn't to blame for all his struggles in Las Vegas last season, he's always struggled to take care of the football. Those tendencies will show again in due time.
2. New England Patriots
A lot was said about the 2025 New England Patriots' schedule, and it's proving true. They're struggling to be the same dominant team now that they actually have to play playoff-caliber competition in the regular season.
Drake Maye can't seem to get out of his own head, and with A.J. Brown set to miss at least another month, the Patriots might be nearly out of the playoff picture by late October. They're also extremely thin on both sides of the field.
Head coach Mike Vrabel is facing serious scrutiny on and off the field. And Maye, fresh off an MVP-caliber campaign, seems erratic, as if he's just forcing things and compensating. They have some talent, though.
1. Indianapolis Colts
That leads us right back to our Colts. Shane Steichen's team has gotten better every week, and it feels like they were just a play or two from being 2-1 (or at least 1-1-1) at this point. Also, their schedule is somewhat friendlier.
The Colts will meet the Jayden Daniels-less Washington Commanders in London before dates with the Pittsburgh Steelers and Tennessee Titans. The table is set for this team to go over .500 in the next couple of weeks.
Lou Anarumo's defense left plenty to be desired in Weeks 1 and 2, but it took a big step forward against the Texans. While Alec Pierce's absence will be a blow, this team is fully equipped to get by and finally end its postseason drought.
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