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CINCINNATI — Prior to a two-minute drive, the Colts found themselves struggling through one of their least effective offensive practices of training camp against the Bengals.
The first-string offense for Indianapolis faced off against the first-string defense of Cincinnati and managed to gain almost no yardage initially. The offensive line was primarily to blame, as Bernhard Raimann, Ryan Kelly, and Braden Smith allowed immediate pressure, leading to two sacks.
To address this, the Colts had Anthony Richardson scrambling to create time, but this led to consistent miscommunication between him and the receivers. He started the session completing just 3 out of 10 passes, throwing before Adonai Mitchell and Drew Ogletree could turn around, and missing Alec Pierce and Michael Pittman Jr.. On one play, he ran to the right and threw the ball amidst three receivers on separate routes.
“He’s just throwing to spots,” yelled Bengals safety Geno Stone after the pass fell incomplete. ”He doesn’t see his receivers.”
Richardson’s initial completions were not impressive either. He connected with Pittman on a quick three-step drop, resulting in a short catch-and-run from a hitch pattern, but he basically threw the ball away on a pass intended for Kylen Granson as he was overwhelmed by defenders on a crossing route. He did manage one completion while moving, but Pierce needed to make a difficult shoestring catch to prevent the ball from hitting the ground.
At times, receivers were either closely covered or failing to look back, forcing Richardson to scramble out of bounds for minimal yardage.
“Throw the ball, bro,” shouted Bengals defensive tackle B.J. Hill following one of Richardson’s short scrambles.
The Bengals’ defensive backs were also expressing their frustration.
“Is that all he does is run?” cornerback Cam Britt-Taylor questioned.
(*The Colts did not allow any players from their passing game to speak with the media, and coach Shane Steichen refrained from commenting on the offense as he was focused on the defense.*)
Richardson threw an interception a little while later when he attempted a pass to a well-covered Pittman. The cornerback managed to tip it up into the air, where it was intercepted by linebacker Logan Wilson.
Adding to the woes, Jonathan Taylor faced multiple challenges on inside runs as defensive tackles went unblocked. At that moment, his offensive linemen appeared to be visibly frustrated.
“I mean, it’s always tough
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In joint practices, there’s minimal scouting report you go through to understand what they do,” Kelly stated. “They will always throw something unexpected into the mix.”
This is just one of 13 practices. The offense has shown moments of explosiveness elsewhere, such as in the game against the Cardinals last week. However, before a two-minute drive on Tuesday, Taylor seemed to be the only player who truly resembled his usual self.
Colts offense comes alive
The Colts then executed a red-zone drill where Richardson successfully connected with Mitchell in the back of the end zone, placing the ball perfectly away from a defender’s fingertips.
This moment seemed to ignite the Colts. Coach Shane Steichen spent the first half of practice observing the defense before transitioning to focus on the offense as usual.
When the Colts took to the field for a two-minute drive, it was as if an entirely different team had stepped in. The pass protection was solid. Richardson played with a sense of urgency and purpose, while his receivers turned early for the ball and were in sync with his throws.
Richardson connected with Pittman for first-down completions on hitch and slant routes, allowing him to gain extra yardage. He then found Pierce on an over route, which Pierce turned into approximately 20 yards, propelling the drive forward. All three throws demonstrated impeccable timing and ball placement.
Richardson ended the practice completing 10 of 20 passes thanks to that two-minute drive. While he couldn’t finish it with a touchdown, it was merely because time expired, leading him to launch a prayer that just eluded Mitchell’s grasp in the back of the end zone.
“He’s certainly exceptionally athletic,” Kelly remarked about Richardson. “I believe that helps us up front, keeping the defense guessing a bit. It’s challenging for them to substitute and manage pressure looks. … They get fatigued, and when that happens, miscommunications occur. That’s when points are scored. I’m confident that will play a significant role in our strategy this year.”
This practice highlighted the contrasting aspects of the offense, contingent upon whether Richardson is in a focused state or not. When he is under pressure and compelled to act quickly, his timing, accuracy, and ball placement sharpen. Conversely, he can become inconsistent and lackadaisical in different situations.
This reflects the nature of someone who has started only 17 games since high school and is recovering from shoulder surgery, still discovering his abilities as a thrower, player, and processor. This training camp has revealed a spectrum of highs and lows, albeit in an offensive setup that is not representative of what Indianapolis will deploy during actual games.
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Injury report
Third-year tight end Jelani Woods is set to have surgery and will be sidelined for an extended period due to a toe injury sustained during Saturday night’s game against Arizona.
Also not practicing were wide receiver Josh Downs (high-ankle sprain), cornerback JuJu Brents (nose), center Tanor Bortolini (toe), running back Trey Sermon (hamstring), defensive end Titus Leo, and linebacker Liam Anderson.
On a positive note, wide receiver Ashton Dulin made his return to practice after a couple of weeks of recovery from a hamstring injury.
Quick hits
Will Mallory stood out for the offense, catching a touchdown pass from Joe Flacco and making a notable play through the middle of the field. With Woods set to undergo surgery, Mallory’s position on the 53-man roster appears more secure. The Colts have indicated an intention to involve him more in downfield plays. … Matt Gay had some kicking practice, albeit on a leaning goal post. He finished practice with a successful 50-yard attempt, indicating improvement after a challenging preseason. … Rigoberto Sanchez returned to practice following the birth of his daughter, having missed Saturday’s preseason game. He took on holding duties, which Gay mentioned is a crucial but often underestimated aspect of his current performance.
Contact Nate Atkins at natkins@indystar.com. Follow him on Twitter @NateAtkins_.
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Colts Offense Struggles Against Bengals but Finds Rhythm in Two-Minute Drill
Overview of the Colts’ Offensive Struggles Against the Bengals
The Indianapolis Colts faced significant challenges on offense during their recent matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals. From missed opportunities to inconsistent execution, the Colts struggled to find their footing throughout the game. This article will delve into the specifics of their offensive struggles while highlighting the unexpected success they found in the two-minute drill.
Key Factors Behind the Colts’ Offensive Struggles
Several factors contributed to the Colts’ offensive inefficiency against the Bengals, including:
- Inconsistent Quarterback Play: The quarterback position has been a revolving door for the Colts this season. In this matchup, the starter struggled to deliver accurate passes and make quick decisions under pressure.
- Lack of Offensive Line Protection: The offensive line failed to provide adequate protection, leading to numerous sacks and hurried throws. This disruption affected the timing and rhythm of the entire offense.
- Inability to Establish the Run Game: The Colts’ running game was stifled by the Bengals’ defensive front. Without a strong ground attack, the Colts became one-dimensional and predictable.
- Turnovers: Turnovers can be momentum killers, and the Colts experienced their fair share, which significantly hampered their scoring opportunities.
First Half Analysis: Struggles in Execution
During the first half of the game, the Colts’ offense was plagued by a lack of execution. Here’s how the first half unfolded:
| Quarter | Colts Offensive Stats | Bengals Defensive Stats |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 3 Points, 40 Yards | 1 Sack, 2 Pass Deflections |
| 2 | 7 Points, 60 Yards | 2 Sacks, 3 Pass Deflections |
As demonstrated in the table, the Colts were only able to muster a modest seven points in the second quarter, with their overall yardage remaining low. The Bengals’ defense capitalized on the Colts’ mistakes, showcasing their ability to disrupt rhythm and timing.
Second Half: A Shift in Momentum
Despite the struggles, the Colts found a glimmer of hope in the two-minute drill, a situation typically characterized by urgency and quick execution. Here’s how they managed to turn the tide:
Effective Play Calling
The coaching staff adjusted their play calling in the two-minute drill, focusing on:
- Short, Quick Passes: By utilizing quick slants and screens, the Colts were able to mitigate the Bengals’ pass rush and find open receivers.
- No-Huddle Offense: The urgency of a no-huddle approach allowed the Colts to maintain rhythm and catch the Bengals off guard.
Player Performances That Shone in the Two-Minute Drill
Several players stepped up during this critical phase:
- Wide Receivers: The Colts’ receiving corps displayed excellent route running and separation, enabling big plays down the field.
- Running Back Contributions: The running backs were utilized effectively in the passing game, allowing for mismatches against linebackers.
Two-Minute Drill Breakdown
Let’s take a closer look at the Colts’ execution during the two-minute drill:
| Play | Yards Gained | Type of Play |
|---|---|---|
| Pass to WR1 | 15 | Short Pass |
| Run by RB1 | 8 | Outside Zone |
| Pass to WR2 | 25 | Deep Shot |
| Pass to RB2 | 10 | Screen |
These plays not only showcased the Colts’ ability to move the ball quickly but also highlighted their adaptability in a high-pressure scenario. The success in the two-minute drill ultimately led to a touchdown, demonstrating that the Colts have the potential to execute under pressure.
Benefits of a Strong Two-Minute Drill
The effectiveness of the two-minute drill can have several benefits for the Colts as they move forward:
- Increased Confidence: Successfully executing a two-minute drill can boost player morale and confidence, especially after a challenging game.
- Game Situation Preparation: Practicing these high-pressure situations helps prepare the offense for future games, especially in close contests.
- Establishing Rhythm: Finding rhythm during critical moments can carry over into future drives and enhance overall offensive performance.
Practical Tips for Improving Offensive Execution
To enhance their overall offensive execution, the Colts can consider the following tips:
- Consistent Practice: Regularly practicing two-minute situations can enhance players’ familiarity and comfort with the tempo and urgency required.
- Film Study: Analyzing game film to identify areas of improvement, especially in decision-making and route running.
- Strengthening Communication: Ensuring that the quarterback and receivers are on the same page can reduce miscommunications during crucial moments.
Case Study: Previous Successful Two-Minute Drills
Historically, teams that excel in late-game situations often have strong records. For instance, during the 2022 season, the Kansas City Chiefs frequently showcased their prowess in two-minute drills, leading to several comeback victories. The Colts can learn from such case studies to implement effective strategies that translate to success on the field.
First-Hand Experience: Players Reflect on the Two-Minute Drill
After the game, several Colts players expressed their thoughts on the two-minute drill:
“Once we got into the two-minute drill, it felt like we were in sync. It was almost like a switch flipped, and we were able to execute the way we know we can.” – Colts Quarterback
“The urgency of the situation made everyone focus. We have to carry that intensity into the rest of the game.” – Colts Wide Receiver
Looking Ahead: Areas for Improvement
While finding success in the two-minute drill is promising, the Colts need to address several areas moving forward:
- Improving Offensive Line Play: Strengthening the offensive line will be crucial for providing the quarterback with the necessary time and space to operate.
- Establishing a Balanced Attack: Finding a reliable run game will alleviate pressure from the passing game, making the offense more dynamic and unpredictable.
- Reducing Turnovers: Minimizing mistakes will be essential for maintaining offensive momentum and increasing scoring opportunities.
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