NFL Playoffs: X-Factors, red flags for each team

8 of 9

Jan 4, 2015; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Indianapolis Colts quarterback Andrew Luck is interviewed after the 2014 AFC Wild Card playoff football game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /

Indianapolis Colts X Factor: Replacement takes on aging predecessor

The Indianapolis Colts are in the playoffs again, extending a remarkable run of regular season success that began with the drafting of Peyton Manning, took a brief hiatus, and has since continued under Andrew Luck. There is no doubt that Luck is the quarterback of the future, and that he is destined for unprecedented success as a pro.

The question remains: can the Colts surround him with enough talent to proceed past the Wildcard round of the playoffs?

As of now, the last time Indy advanced past the Divisional round was 2009, the year Peyton took them to a Super Bowl loss to Drew Brees and New Orleans. Since then, the well documented neck surgeries and relocation to Denver have led up to a unique matchup: The QB who, in essence, built Lucas Oil Field will now host the young upstart who replaced him.

The X Factor in this game is not statistical as much as it is emotional and evolutionary. Can the youngster take the next step by vanquishing the man whose shoes he’s currently trying to fill?

If Peyton’s neck, lack of arm strength and breakdowns on his own defensive squad crop up in this matchup, it might very well be time for a changing of the guard.

Indianapolis Colts Red Flag: Defense

The Colts, as currently constructed, are a one dimensional team. They rank in the middle of the league in most defensive categories. Their leading rusher averages 3.3 yards per carry, and they rank 22nd in rushing offense.

But they are No. 1 in passing offense in the entire league.

Despite their lack of rushing game mastery, and despite the fact that the defense sometimes has trouble getting off the field and killing drives, the Colts are actually ranked 4th in time of possession this year.

That has masked a lot of flaws on defense. Flaws that are often exposed by veteran quarterbacks … on the road … in the playoffs …

The Colts defense, in conjunction with Andrew Luck’s ball control offense, will need to control the clock and not let Peyton Manning’s weapons take over this game. Otherwise, it could be a high time in the Mile Long City. Er … wait. Long time in the Mile High City.

Next: Can the Denver Broncos get over the hump?

Home/Baltimore Ravens