Broncos vs. Colts: 5 burning questions for Sunday night

Oct 20, 2013; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning (18) shakes hands with Indianapolis Colts quarterback Andrew Luck (12) after the game at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Thomas J. Russo-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 20, 2013; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning (18) shakes hands with Indianapolis Colts quarterback Andrew Luck (12) after the game at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Thomas J. Russo-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 20, 2013; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Indianapolis Colts quarterback Andrew Luck (12) prepares to pass in the fourth quarter against the Denver Broncos at Lucas Oil Stadium. The Colts defeated the Broncos 39-33. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 20, 2013; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Indianapolis Colts quarterback Andrew Luck (12) prepares to pass in the fourth quarter against the Denver Broncos at Lucas Oil Stadium. The Colts defeated the Broncos 39-33. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports /

1. Can Andrew Luck Remain Calm Under Pressure in a Big Game and Hostile Atmosphere?

This is going to be one of the biggest games that Luck has played in, and it will also be one of the most hostile atmospheres. The Denver fan base as a whole is very diehard, and he hasn’t experienced the type of trouble that comes with playing in Denver either. It will be very intriguing to see how he ends up playing on Sunday night, an whether he’s able to handle all of the pressure that is being placed on him.

He has shown maturity beyond his years in his first two NFL seasons, but this type of game is going to be challenging. Playing in Denver where it’s already more difficult physically to play, as well as against an improved Denver defense is going to be tough. The Colts’ lack of a rushing attack is a major concern as well for Luck.

If the Colts want Luck to be as effective as possible, they are going to have to figure out a way to pick up some yardage on the ground. Denver’s defense has improved too much to force Luck to rely on the passing game each and every down, but they still aren’t perfect. Don’t be surprised to see Luck handle the pressure well and come through with a big performance in prime time on Sunday night.