3 things Colts must focus on to get a win over Falcons in Week 16

2. Colts must improve special teams

The Colts dished out some unexpected suspensions this week, suspending cornerback Tony Brown and receiver Isaiah McKenzie for undisclosed reasons. The only explanation the team provided was conduct detrimental to the team. Both played a large role on special teams with Brown being a mainstay on the unit and McKenzie being the full-time returner.

It appears that Josh Downs will be taking over the returner role for the remainder of the season. Outside of the Tennessee game a few weeks ago, where Indy was able to block two punts that allowed the Colts to get back into the game, this unit has been just average this season. Just last week, Indy had a punt blocked against the Steelers. Colts were able to overcome it against Pittsburgh but that won’t be feasible every week.

We have also seen the usually reliable Matt Gay struggle, missing three of his last six field goals. He has been on the injury list this week and that might explain his struggles in the kicking game.

The clean-up seems to be more fundamental than anything, but they do have a first-year coordinator in Brian Mason. The Colts will need to clean up the mistakes on special teams as the playoffs approach because the margin for error is razor thin come playoff time.