The NFL’s 2024 regular season gets underway shortly. There are a lot of intriguing matchups on the Indianapolis Colts’ schedule. Both contests against the rival Houston Texans should be fun to watch. But what will be Indy’s most difficult game? Andrew Aziz of Stampede Blue believes it’ll be against the New York Jets:
“1. Away at New York Jets…Playing Aaron Rodgers is never an easy task; couple that with the Jets having one of the best defenses in the NFL and some playmakers on offense, and you have yourself a serious issue. Then add on the fact that you’re playing on the road in New York. What also doesn’t help is the Colts play the Bills the week before, so they might be banged up a bit after what will probably be a tough matchup.”
Last season, the Jets finished with a 7-10 record and missed the playoffs for the 13th consecutive year. However, quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who missed the majority of 2023 due to injury, is healthy and ready to go. His return could help transform the Jets into one of the top teams in the AFC.
Will Week 11 vs. the New York Jets Be the Most Difficult Game on the Indianapolis Colts’ Schedule?
They Could Take on an MVP-caliber Aaron Rodgers
The Jets contest will be on the road in Week 11 (Nov. 17). This is the Colts’ only prime-time matchup this year. Yes, it could turn out to be their most difficult game, but that depends on Rodgers’ situation.
In 2023, Rodgers suffered a ruptured Achilles on just the fourth snap of the season. It won’t be easy coming back from this type of injury, especially since he’s 40 years old. But the Jets could emerge as an elite team if he returns to MVP form.
Rodgers is surrounded by offensive weapons like wide receiver Garrett Wilson and running back Breece Hall. The team also has a great defense led by defensive tackle Quinnen Williams and shutdown cornerback Sauce Gardner. New York’s D ranked 10th in points per game allowed and second in yards per game last season.
The biggest story will be Rodgers vs. Anthony Richardson (if they’re both healthy). But ultimately, it will likely come down to a heated battle between the Colts’ offensive line—which is one of the best in the league—and the Jets’ defensive front.
Another Team Might Be the Toughest Opponent
While a contest against the Rodgers-led Jets will be tough, it probably isn’t the most difficult matchup on the Colts’ schedule. Perhaps their biggest challenge will be Week 12 at home versus the Detroit Lions.
The Lions had a phenomenal 2023 campaign, finishing with a 12-5 record. They almost made it to their first-ever Super Bowl. Yet, they lost to the San Francisco 49ers 34-31 during the NFC Championship Game.
Detroit could certainly get over the hump and win a Super Bowl this season. Their roster includes several “blue-chip” players like Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jahmyr Gibbs, Sam LaPorta, Penei Sewell, and Aidan Hutchinson.
The Lions possess an explosive offense. In 2023, the unit topped 30 points 11 times, including the playoffs. And they improved their defense this offseason, making several outstanding moves. The Lions are possibly the most dangerous opponent on the Colts’ schedule this year.
Main Photo: [Kelly Wilkinson/IndyStar] – USA Today Sports
