2. Colts have to disrupt Jake Browning
Anytime you have an undrafted and unproven quarterback under center, either as a one game fill in or full season closer, the key to success against these of quarterbacks is disruption. I know it’s always said, you have to be able to rush the passer and its even more evident with a backup under center.
The Colts pass rush has been a surprisingly great unit this season. They have accumulated a total of 42 sacks, which is second most in the NFL. Entering the year, this was expected to be a weakness on the defense this season. However, guys like Samson Ebukam, Kwity Paye, and Dayo Odeyingbo we’re able to step up for Indianapolis.
The Colts are also getting a boost on the defensive line, with elite defensive tackle Grover Stewart returning from his six game PED suspension this week.
Bengals offensive coordinator Brian Callahan proved he can put a winning game plan out there for Browning with last week’s surprising win over Jacksonville. He simplified some things and had trust in Browning, allowing him to throw it nearly 40 times. The Colts front seven must get Browning to move around in the pocket and make him uncomfortable to try to disrupt not only his rhythm, but his confidence.