The Indianapolis Colts may have traded away some veterans, but they know there's no point in giving up this season. They don't have a first-round pick, and while it might be impossible to save Shane Steichen's job, he still has half a season to audition for other gigs.
Considering that, the Colts should be licking their chops at the thought of facing the Miami Dolphins. Not that they can afford to look down on anyone, but Jeff Hafley's team has struggled to close out games, and Malik Willis will miss the game due to an injury.
The door is wide open for the Colts to win their third game of the season, and while it won't be as easy as it sounds, this one should be in the bag if they don't shoot themselves in the foot. With that in mind, let's take a look at the five questions that might define this game.
5 questions the Indianapolis Colts must answer in Week 10 vs. the Dolphins
How much will they keep trusting Daniel Jones?
Shane Steichen's decision to ride or die with Daniel Jones may have cost him his job. But now, the Colts, as an organization, should consider all their options, including letting the backups play and show what they've got.
The Dolphins have a tough defense, and Jones has made terrible decisions all year long. If the Colts get off to a slow start, they should at least consider getting someone else on the field. What's the worst that can happen?
Will they manage Jonathan Taylor's reps?
The Colts' decision not to trade Jonathan Taylor shows they still consider him an integral part of their future. As such, and with the playoffs most likely out of reach, they should be extremely careful with his reps.
The last thing this team needs right now is a long-term injury that would keep him sidelined through the start of next season. The Colts should give him some touches here and there and let Seth McGowan and DJ Giddens do the heavy lifting.
Can they keep the quarterback out of harm's way?
Jones has been pretty bad under pressure this season. Hafley's defensive front knows how to bring the heat and put pressure at the line of scrimmage, and the offensive line hasn't held up well against the blitz this season.
The Dolphins will struggle to move the chains, but the defense can flip the field and make this one a long day in the office. Bernhard Raimann has left plenty to be desired this season, and Jalen Travis will likely miss this game.
Will Tayler Warren finally step up?
Tyler Warren has been the most disappointing player on the team this season by a significant margin, which is no small feat. He looked poised for a breakout campaign, but he has barely been a factor in the passing game.
With Josh Downs and Keenan Allen elsewhere, there's no excuse or anywhere to hide for the second-year tight end. He'll likely draw as many targets as he can handle, and it's about time he steps up and shows what he can do.
How to limit explosive plays?
Kyle McCord isn't necessarily known for his arm strength, but the Dolphins might have the element of surprise with him under center. Also, he's a volume passer who made a living thanks to his ball placement and anticipation.
The Colts have been on the wrong end of some big plays this season, including an explosive completion that cost them the win over the Dallas Cowboys last week. The Dolphins have some playmakers.
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