In a Week 10 Indianapolis Colts victory over the Atlanta Falcons, there weren't many positives to take away from the play of the defense. The Colts were coming off a loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers and in need of setting the tone out of the gate.
Indianapolis failed to put much pressure on Atlanta quarterback Michael Penix, Jr. In fact, the Colts only managed two sacks of Penix during regulation. It would be in overtime when linebacker Zaire Franklin would prove to be the difference maker.
Franklin accounted for 10 total tackles, including two tackles for loss. On a day when the Colts' defensive line failed to put consistent pressure on the QB, Zaire Franklin got to Penix when it counted.
Zaire Franklin comes up big in the Indianapolis Colts' win
Atlanta got the ball first in overtime and, after a Colts penalty, looked to hand the ball off to running back Tyler Allgeier. Franklin seemed to know the snap count as he timed his release perfectly and nailed Allgeier in the Falcons' backfield for a two-yard loss.
Two plays later, Atlanta quarterback Penix looked to pass on a third down and 12. Once again, Franklin would have none of it as he used his quickness to chase down Penix for a 12-yard loss and forcing the Falcons to punt the ball to the Colts.
Zaire Franklin showed why he is one of the most feared linebackers in the league. He is a veteran leader with playmaking ability. Franklin came up big when Indianapolis needed it most and would end the day with 10 total tackles, six of those tackles solo, and the big sack when the Colts needed it most.
Indianapolis would take possession and not relinquish it as their lone drive in overtime was capped off by a Jonathan Taylor touchdown run for the win. With the Colts having a bye week after this game, followed by a trip to play the Kansas City Chiefs, this was a must-win game for the team.
Before the trade deadline ahead of the Week 10 game, Indianapolis made a blockbuster trade for cornerback Ahmad "Sauce" Gardner. This move was made to solidify the secondary and hopefully answer the questions many had about this version of the Colts' defense. Even with the win, there's still work to be done.