The Indianapolis Colts and the New England Patriots have an ongoing rivalry that usually results in very competitive games. However, Colts fans have to admit that New England has dominated the rivalry. While the Colts were good over the last two decades, the Patriots were a dynasty.
Oftentimes, that reality made this rivalry game somewhat of a litmus test for Indianapolis. When Indy wins, or comes very close to winning, the team is usually pretty good. However, if the Colts are dominated by the Pats, expectations are usually low. The last two meetings between these teams really exemplify that.
Back in 2021, Indy and New England met with above-500 records, fighting for a playoff spot. Despite the Patriots having a really good defense, the Colts were able to dominate on the ground. Jonathan Taylor ran for 170 yards and a touchdown that put the game away. Indianapolis won 27-17 and it was clear that Indy was one of the hottest teams in the league.
A year later, the Colts were 3-4-1 when they faced off against a 4-4 New England team. The game ended up being an embarrassment for Indy. The Patriots won 26-3 and held Indianapolis to 121 total yards and just eight first downs. Frank Reich was fired after the game and Indy ended up being one of the worst teams last season.
Now, Indy will enter Week 10 at 4-5 when they take on New England. Will the 2023 game look more like 2021 or 2022?
What version of Colts will we see against the Patriots?
This isn’t the New England team that fans are used to. The Pats are entering this game at 2-7 and it has been a struggle for them all season. However, Bill Belichick and the Patriots are always capable of making things ugly and pulling out a win. New England will surely be prepared to stop the run and force Gardner Minshew into some costly mistakes.
Will the Colts be able to protect the football and run it against a stacked box? If they can get a convincing win over the Patriots in Germany, Indy will probably be able to pick up quite a few more wins this season.