The 2025 iteration of the Indianapolis Colts has shown itself to be much improved through Week 2 of the season. In the first game against the Miami Dolphins, they were dominant on both sides of the ball. A stifling defense only gave up eight points, and those came late in the fourth quarter. The offense scored each time it had the ball, leading to a blowout victory.
In the second game against the Denver Broncos, this Colts team showed grit and tenacity. This was the type of game Indianapolis has had trouble with in recent history. Playing against a team regarded to be not just a playoff contender, but a contender for the AFC West crown, they have shown they can hang make it interesting for a while before collapsing in the second half. Not this time, folks.
Indy trailed 21-13 when Daniel Jones connected with Alec Pierce on a 44-yard pass into Broncos territory. The next two plays were a 15-yard completion to rookie TE Tyler Warren and a 7-yard touchdown pass to RB Jonathan Taylor. The Colts had pulled to within one point at 21-20, and that would be the score heading into halftime.
This Indianapolis Colts team proves it is different than previous versions
Denver took the second half kickoff and used seven plays to go 60 yards, capped off with a touchdown to bring the margin back to eight with a score of 28-20. This is the point where Colts fans normally let out a sigh, feeling as though this would be a repeat of previous games. Little did anyone know that would be the last time the Broncos would score in the game.
Indianapolis would not see the endzone again in the game. However, the team would have 3 more scoring drives, all field goals, capping a 29-28 victory for the Horseshoe. The game-winning kick was preceded by a 60-yard attempt that was no good, but the Colts received new life thanks to a 15-yard penalty on Denver.
I previously wrote about the keys to a Colts victory. First, Jonathan Taylor needed to be able to run the ball. Run the ball he did, to the tune of 25 carries for 165 yards. Second, Daniel Jones would need to have a successful passing game. This, too, was a checkmark in favor of Indianapolis as Jones would throw for 316 yards on the day.
His counterpart, Bo Nix, managed 206 yards passing but also accounted for the game's only turnover with his one interception. This was the third key to victory as the Colts did not turn the ball over in the game. Additionally, Indianapolis has not only been scoring more often, but they are the only NFL team not to punt thus far.
Excitement is rising in Indianapolis. It would be too early to state the Colts are now the favorites to win the AFC South crown this season. Yet, it's hard to argue that they aren't said favorites. The 2025 version of the Indianapolis Colts is different, and I think we can all agree on that.