The Indianapolis Colts roared back with a huge statement making payout with the NFL betting odds on Sunday Night Football against the Giants 38-14.
Answering the Critics
The Colts faced plenty of criticism and doubts about their status as an elite team and playoff contender for 2010 with a total team effort against New York as they easily covered the NFL odds as 4-point home favorites with the NBC national audience looking on. The win followed a 34-24 debacle at Houston on opening day in which the Colts allowed a humiliating 257 yards on the ground including 231 to undrafted Houston free agent Arian Foster, who scored 3 touchdowns. The loss had many in the media along with fans and handicappers questioning the Colts ability along with their will to win.
Manning in MVP Form
Peyton Manning won his 4th NFL Most Valuable Player Award last year and is showing no signs of slipping up in 2010. The Colts and Manning have the top ranked passing attack in the NFL as Manning has a QB rating of a lights out 121 with a 72% completion rate, 688 yards, and a 6/0 touchdown to interception ratio. His favorite target remains Reggie Wayne, who has 14 catches for a team best 195 yards and 2 touchdowns.
Improved Defense
The Colts defense had plenty to prove to everyone at SBG last week and came through as it held Peyton’s little brother Eli to 13-24 passing for just 161 yards and forced 3 turnovers. The Colts held a 24-13 first down edge in the game. The rush defense still needs work as it allowed 120 yards on 25 carries and ranks dead last in the NFL.
Hitting the Road
The Colts will have back-to-back road games with the Denver Broncos this Sunday followed by the Jacksonville Jaguars on October 3. The Colts are 5.5-point favorites with the NFL betting odds this week at Denver and will be looking to prove that they can play effectively on the road and maintain a consistent effort.
A Tougher Division
The Colts will face a supreme test this year from the Houston Texans for the AFC South Division championship while the Tennessee Titans will also look to be in the hunt. Houston is 2-0 and the Colts cannot afford to slip any further behind.