Colts offensive coordinator Pep Hamilton has preached that the offense would come from a basic two-tight end set that would pound the ball in a balanced, “no-coast” style. However, his offense has yet to take form due to poor push on the offensive line and struggles at the running back position. The name Trent Richardson is no surprise in this category.
It may be the preseason, but it does reflect the progression of players for the regular season. Richardson has not averaged even four yards a carry in either of the first two games (2.6 in week one and 2.3 in week two). The injury bug has hit the offensive line again with multiple injuries on the interior, including guard Donald Thomas being out for the season with a torn quad after only playing two games last year. Center Khaled Holmes injured his left ankle on the opening drive in the first preseason game. He is expected to be back this season though.
With Donald Brown now in San Diego, Ahmad Bradshaw coming off a season-ending neck injury, and Vick Ballard out for another year after tearing his left Achilles, the run game will suffer. Passing the ball will become imperative. According to reports, Hamilton is giving Luck more responsibility at the line of scrimmage, and the Colts have been more aggressive in the passing game, incorporating the no-huddle offense. This change in the offense is a season saver before week one even begins.
The offense has prepared itself to be pass heavy. Andrew Luck has the most passing yards in his first two seasons than any other quarterback in NFL history. The receiving corps consist of Reggie Wayne, T.Y. Hilton and Hakeem Nicks, as well as tight ends Coby Fleener and Dwayne Allen. Luck has also shown the ability to take care of the ball in his second season, at least in the regular season. Last year’s change in the regular season could show in the playoffs as well if Luck continues to progress as he has. After throwing 18 interceptions his rookie season and only nine in his sophomore year, the former Stanford Cardinal could progress even further if he returns to the playoffs a third straight season.
Hamilton may be able to implement the running game this season if the offense succeeds considerably in the passing attack. Luck achieved the record mark without his best receiving tight end or wide out. The main issue still left to discuss is the offensive line. However, the no-huddle offense has been known to take the life out of opponents when done successfully. With fatigue setting into play and more plays reducing the number of drop-back steps, the line could hold up compared to in a basic ace formation.
Protection will also be more imperative since the Colts’ main threat at a division title invested in strengthening its defense/pass rush instead of a quarterback. Jadeveon Clowney and J.J. Watt could become the next pass rushing duo to dominate the NFL. Indianapolis won’t be able to beat the Texans if Luck isn’t on his feet.
With week three of the preseason, also known as rehearsal for the regular season, now here, the Colts do plan on focusing on a better run game. Hamilton has realized what must be done in order for the team to win if the same situation from last season arises again.
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