The Indianapolis Colts eked out a victory over the Tennessee Titans in Week 16, in an attempt to claw their way into the playoffs after an up-and-down season. Despite some hiccups, it ended up being a phenomenal game for Jonathan Taylor, who was named the AFC Offensive Player of the Week. Taylor and quarterback Anthony Richardson became the first quarterback-running back duo in NFL history to run for 200+ and 70+ yards, respectively.
As the Colts prepare to take on the New York Giants in Week 17, analysts have responded to their last win, and made predictions for the rest of the season.
Stephen Holder, ESPN: #21 (22)
Rookie of the year: Defensive end Laiatu Latu
Latu has been quieter in recent weeks after creating significant disruption earlier in the season. He still ranks second on his team with 41 quarterback pressures despite being fourth in snap counts among the Colts' defensive linemen. Latu is also third among all rookies in pressures. He has only four sacks, but he has had several near misses, and the Colts think he'll eventually convert those into takedowns. And when Latu has managed to get sacks, he has made them count with two strip sacks.
Mike Florio, NBC Sports: #19 (19)
A one-dimensional offense won’t get it done in the playoffs.
Frank Schwab, Yahoo! Sports: #22 (22)
The Colts ran it 50 times and passed it 11 on Sunday vs. the Titans. The game script after taking an early lead helped Indianapolis keep it on the ground. It was a decidedly old-school approach. And, with Anthony Richardson's passing limitations, that's how the Colts have to play to stay in the playoff hunt.
Josh Kendall, The Athletic: #19 (22)
The big question: What to do with Anthony Richardson?
The second-year quarterback rushed for 70 yards but threw only 11 passes Sunday. Maybe that’s the right formula for this team. The Colts’ 38 points were their most this season thanks to Jonathan Taylor’s 218 yards on the ground, but is it sustainable? Richardson, who is in the second year of his rookie deal, is last among qualifying quarterbacks in passer rating (61.6) and completion percentage (47.7 percent) and tied for fourth in interceptions (12) despite being 33rd in attempts (264), according to TruMedia. He doesn’t gain enough on the ground (45.4 per game, third in the league) to make up for that.
Nate Davis, USA Today: #20 (21)
Sunday is what they were supposed to be all along offensively with QB Anthony Richardson and RB Jonathan Taylor in the backfield – an attack that can unleash an unstoppable running game able to cover up most any other flaw. Maybe it's what theywill be in 2025.
Bleacher Report: #20 (21)
Last week, Colts running back Jonathan Taylor made one of the gaffes of the year, dropping the ball before crossing the goal line against the Denver Broncos.
There would be no such mistake Sunday in a game that was much more lopsided than the final score— Taylor rushed for 218 yards in a contest where the Colts set a new franchise record with 335 rushing yards.
While talking to reporters after the win, Taylor said it was fun to play in a game where the team dominated the line of scrimmage — and that he was determined to atone for last week's mistake.
"That's kind of the exciting part," Taylor said "It's kind of when you start imposing your will, establishing that line of scrimmage. Those are the types of football games as a running back ... you love. I had already predetermined in my mind that next time, I'm going all the way in the tunnel."
Analyst's Take
Jonathan Taylor learned from his mistake after dropping the ball before crossing the goal line and costing the Colts a potential game-defining touchdown last weekend against the Denver Broncos. He responded against the Tennessee Titans, while showing exactly how Indianapolis' offense should operate as Anthony Richardson develops. Taylor ran for 218 yards -- which won't happen every weekend. Still, the running game needs to be the focal point, especially when head coach/offensive play-caller Shane Steichen has Richardson and Taylor in the backfield to give opponents fits. Bring Richardson along slowly, while staying competitive along the way. - Brent Sobleski
Vinnie Iyer, Sporting News: #19 (21)
Jonathan Taylor made sure he held on to the ball when they needed him to stay in the playoff race. He is having a much-needed positive effect on Anthony Richardson.
Pete Prisco, CBS Sports: #16 (17)
Jonathan Taylor bounced back from his terrible fumble in the loss to Denver to rush for over 200 yards against the Titans. They are still alive, but need help.
Peter Dewey, SI: #19 (19)
Three rushing scores by Jonathan Taylor kept the Colts' season alive, but the loss to Denver in Week 15 may end up dooming them in the playoff race.