Colts With a Run Game: What?
It looks a little early to say, but the Associated Press just reported that the 2012 Indianapolis Colts have a run game. Shocking, right? Still, I'm thinking it must be true. 147 yards on Sunday, next to 186 passing yards, with a backup running back. In perspective, the Colts rushed for over 100 yards five times last year, and have already rushed for 100+ three times in six games this year.
Andrew Luck needs a run game. Unlike Manning, he doesn't have enough experience to work through a pass-only offense like the Colts had become. His speed helps cover up errors in a porous O-line (on display last week, especially in the second half), and gives Indy's offense a very different feel from the last decade and a half. With a run game - a consistant, Donald-Brown-inspired run game - their offense could probably match Houston's.
Also, Mewelde Moore has to go. Nine attempts, fourteen yards? Are you serious?
Our running game was more consistent Sunday because Ballard and Carter are better every down backs than Brown. Brown has more speed but that is his only advantage-blocking, tough running inside, injury prone, could not run over an empty box have been legacy. He is not an every down back--needs space and a fullback. Glad to see these other backs proving their power. We can use them all then maybe Luck will not have an empty backfield on 3rd and short.
@NateDunlevy my take (based on "following" game via gamecast): Browns sold out to stop pass, Colts sold out to stop run. We executed better.
