Originally Posted by
K3vans
I have been following these boards for a couple of years now. Trying to get more involved. Below is my first game breakdown. Any feedback would be appreciated.. Positive or negative.
The biggest question I have going into this game.. How much energy has Indianapolis exerted over the last few weeks in their (successful) attempt to make the playoffs? Indianapolis played in the late game on Sunday night, on the road, and here they are again on the road, with the first kickoff on Saturday. Short week for both teams, but I think this is more of a disadvantage for Indianapolis as it is a road game and Houston clinched a playoff spot weeks ago. First factor I looked at.. How well does each team protect their franchise QB? The Colts have allowed only 18 sacks all season. On the other hand, the Texans have allowed a league worst 62 sacks this season (most in the NFL since 2006). Next, I looked at each team’s success against winning teams (finished 8-8 or better) this season.. IND was 5-2 ATS and outgained those opponents by an average of 60 yards per game. HOU was 3-4 ATS and outgained those opponents by an average of 15 yards per game. These teams are very familiar with each other as they both play in the AFC South. In their Week 4 meeting in Indianapolis, the Texans prevailed in OT, 37-34. The offensive stats in the first game were virtually the same, despite HOU having the ball for 10 minutes longer than IND (40:04 to 29:56). 84 total plays for HOU, 466 total yards. 83 total plays for IND, 478 total yards. There was a big difference in passing and rushing yards. HOU gained 347 yards passing and 119 yards on the ground, while IND gained 437 yards passing and 41 yards rushing. HOU did have 1 turnover (INT), while IND lost 2 fumbles. Houston hosted their Week 13 meeting on a 9 game winning streak. The Colts snapped that streak, winning 24-21.There was a big difference in offensive stats, despite almost equal time of possession (28:03 for IND/31:57 for HOU). 66 total plays for IND, 436 total yards. 68 total plays for HOU, only 315 total yards. 386 yard passing and 50 yards rushing for IND. 226 yards passing for HOU and 89 yards rushing. IND did have the only turnover in this game (Luck INT).
The Colts have won 4 in a row, tied with Chicago for the longest winning streak entering the playoffs. I think Andrew Luck and company will make it 5 in a row. Colts 27-17.