The Indianapolis Colts were supposed to roll through the AFC and reach the Super Bowl, but a funny thing happened. Week 1 rolled around, and Tyrod Taylor led the Buffalo Bills to a resounding 27-14 victory over the Colts at Ralph Wilson Stadium. The score was closer than the game, showcasing all of the flaws within Indianapolis’ roster.
On Monday night, the New York Jets pay a visit to Lucas Oil Stadium in hopes of pulling off an upset. New York is currently a seven-point underdog, with most believing that Ryan Fitzpatrick will have an impossible time keeping pace with Andrew Luck and the Colts’ high-flying passing attack. However, there are some problems looming for Indianapolis in this contest. The Colts rely heavily on throwing down the field, and New York has a pair of elite corners in Darrelle Revis and Antonio Cromartie. Even if star receiver T.Y. Hilton does play (knee, game-time decision) he will likely be blanketed by Revis. That would leave Cromartie on Andre Johnson, which appears to be an even matchup.
This is a game that will come down to who makes the fewest mistakes. Fitzpatrick has been known for throwing too many interceptions, but if Chris Ivory can keep the Jets moving on the ground, perhaps Fitzpatrick becomes much less of a factor. The former Harvard star should also be able to find some open receivers with the Colts missing Darius Butler, D’joun Smith and Greg Toler from their secondary. The only corner worth talking about is Vontae Davis, who certainly will be against Brandon Marshall when Indianapolis is in man-coverage.
Also, can Frank Gore do anything against the Jets on the ground? New York has an excellent front seven, while the Colts struggle to blow open holes. Ultimately, it is too tough to pick against Luck at home, but this game has all the makings of an upset.
Pick: Colts 27, Jets 24