Colts’ success begins and ends with turnovers

By Jeff Dickinson  |   Wednesday, November 05, 2008  |  Comments( 0 )

Indianapolis Colts
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After going into New England and winning 18-15, the Colts are 4-4, still in the AFC postseason race.

A look at the stats from the game makes one wonder how the Colts were able to eke out the win. The team’s leading rusher, Joseph Addai, only gained 32 yards on 17 carries. In fact, the Colts had just 47 total rushing yards in the game.

So, how did the Colts manage beat the Patriots?

Commentary: Ultimately, it was the Colts' ability to hold on to the ball (zero turnovers) that led them to victory. Since Peyton Manning took over the quarterback reins for the Colts in 1998, they are 26-2 in games when they do not give the ball away.

The bottom line is, if the Colts are going to make a playoff run over the final eight games of the season, they need to avoid giveaways. It all starts with a tough road contest this Sunday at 6-2 Pittsburgh, a team that is known for having a turnover-forcing defense.

Fan Pulse: Fans are talking about whether Dominic Rhodes should be starting over Addai. They seem to think Rhodes’ size and strength match up better with Pittsburgh’s punishing defense.

Fantasy Impact: Manning is always going to be your starting fantasy quarterback if he is on your roster, but his numbers are definitely down this season. The best fantasy option for the Colts right now is tight end Dallas Clark, who has 238 receiving yards and two touchdowns over the past two games.

Injury Report: Safety Bob Sanders returned to the lineup after missing five games because of an ankle injury. Sanders came through the New England game with no further complications.


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About Jeff Dickinson

I have been writing and editing professionally for 18 years. I spent the first three years of my career as a sportswriter for a daily newspaper in Alabama and got to cover sports and get paid for it! It was great until I got married and then it wasn't too much fun being away from my wife every ...
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