The Indianapolis Colts will look to get back to .500 when they host the winless Tennessee Titans in Week 6. Every game is a must-win, but facing a 0-5 AFC South rival only raises the stakes for Shane Steichen's team.
The Colts haven't looked as sharp this season, not even in the wins. That's why anything short of dominating one of the worst — if not the worst — teams in football will be unacceptable, especially with road games against the Vikings and Jaguars up next.
This team must take this game as a learning experience and fix what must be fixed, knowing things will only get tougher. Considering that, these are the four biggest questions they must answer to get the job done.
4 questions the Indianapolis Colts must answer in Week 6 vs. the Titans
Will the offensive line help Jonathan Taylor?
Jonathan Taylor has gone out of his way to put up big numbers, but his efficiency has taken a big hit. He's down to 3.9 yards per carry, and this would be the first time he has averaged under 4.4 YPC for a full season. That's not on him, though.
The Colts' offensive line must be better at creating running lanes and not being manhandled in the interior. Taylor will get his numbers because he's a superstar, but 49 percent of the Colts' runs have been met at or behind the line of scrimmage, per Sharp Football.
Which Sauce Gardner will show up?
Sauce Gardner hasn't lived up to the hype yet. He's had solid moments this season, but he's also been the first to admit when his effort and performance haven't been up to the standard. So, what version of him will we get on Sunday?
On paper, this should be a cakewalk matchup for the Colts' secondary. Cam Ward is averaging 179.2 yards per game, and Carnell Tate, his WR1, has already dropped four passes. This is a game he must dominate.
Is it time to unleash the rookies?
Divisional game or not, this one should be out of reach pretty soon if the Colts stay in their Ps and Qs. As such, this could give the team a prime opportunity to watch what they have in their hands with some of their first-year players.
CJ Allen has barely played, and this looks like a solid game to get him going. George Gumbs Jr. and Caden Curry have flashed strong play in limited snaps, and Bryce Boettcher will appreciate any opportunity to bounce back after his Week 5 dud.
Can Daniel Jones get it together?
Daniel Jones has yet to throw for two touchdowns in a game this season. He's up to three passing touchdowns and four interceptions in five weeks, and he's only topped 250 receiving yards once. That's not gonna get him another deal in Indianapolis.
Jones has been erratic, making wild throws at times, and while the lack of a vertical threat has obviously taken a toll on the passing game, he must be better. This is the perfect opponent to finally shake off the rust and get his legs back under him.
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