The Indianapolis Colts were able to come away with a 29-23 victory against the Chicago Bears in an important Week Five contest. The game came down to the final drive for the Bears, which ended on a turnover on downs. It was a much needed victory for the Colts to move to 2-3 on the season. They’re now only one game behind the division leaders, the Houston Texans.
Both quarterbacks played well. Bears quarterback Brian Hoyer threw for two touchdowns and 397 yards, which was almost enough for a victory. Even though Colts quarterback Andrew Luck threw for fewer yards (322 yards and two touchdowns), it was still enough for the win. All together, the Bears out-gained the Colts with 522 total yards to just 396 for Indianapolis. However, penalties and turnovers cost the Bears in the end. They had 20 more yards in penalties and had one turnover compared to none for the Colts. Kicker Adam Vinatieri also had a big game as he went five for five on field goals including a 54 yard kick.
Now, let’s look at what we learned from the Indianapolis Colts win over the Chicago Bears.
Indianapolis Colts Week Five Takeaways
The Offensive Line is Still a Major Problem
One of the biggest problems with the Colts offense all season has been the offensive line. Today was another rough day for them. Luck was sacked five times for a total loss of 24 yards. The running game was a little bit better though. Running back Frank Gore had 14 carries for 75 yards, good for 5.4 yards per carry. Since this was the first time in a few weeks that Luck was not injury report, it is disappointing that he was sacked so many times. He hasn’t missed a game yet this season, and fans hope it stays that way.
T.Y. Hilton is Big Time
Colts receiver T.Y. Hilton played a huge part in the win. He had 171 yards receiving and one touchdown. Hilton’s biggest play of the game came on a 35-yard touchdown pass that came with three minutes and 43 seconds left in the fourth quarter. Furthermore, wide receiver Donte Moncrief is still out with a shoulder injury. The Colts also got some help from tight end Dwayne Allen, who had 50 yards receiving and one touchdown. If the Colts can get this type of effort from Hilton for the rest of the season, their fortunes could turn for the better.
The Colts Special Teams Unit is Underrated
The Colts have been largely a disappointment on both sides of the ball this year. However, the special teams unit has been very good. Vinatieri has made 38 consecutive field goals, dating back to last season. He’s been automatic this year, making multiple field goals from further than 50 yards. They also have arguably the best punter in the NFL with Pat McAfee. Considering every game the Colts have played has come down to the last drive, special teams has played an enormous role.
Up next for the Colts is a Sunday Night Football match-up with the Texans. The winner will take first place in the AFC South.
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