AFC South Week 10 Power Ranking: Texans not letting Jaguar run away with the division
• The Texans are hitting their stride
• Things could get interesting in the AFC South
3. team in the AFC South Power in Week 10: Indianapolis Colts (4-5)
The Indianapolis Colts have lots of roster holes and Anthony Richardson is out for the year with a shoulder injury. Yet, they have managed to stay competitive and head coach Shane Steichen deserves credit for that. You could argue that they just beat the worst team in the league, the Carolina Panthers, but a win is a win and owner Jim Irsay celebrated accordingly.
Hold up, wait a minute, ya’ll thought we were finished. - Meek Mill (and also me) 🏈🕺 pic.twitter.com/itIc8xcNF0
— Jim Irsay (@JimIrsay) November 6, 2023
Leaving aside Irsay's dance, the Colts have reasons for optimism, even if a playoff berth doesn't seem feasible right now. Their defense has talent at all three levels. Cornerback Kenny Moore II had two pick-sixes against the Panthers and the defensive front has been able to create havoc at the line scrimmage even without defensive tackle Grover Stewart, who's serving a suspension for violations to the NFL's performance-enhancing drug policy.
The offense has also done its part. In fact, they rank seventh in the league in points scored and 12th in total yards. One big reason is the return of All-Pro running back Jonathan Taylor, who started the season on Injured Reserve. But even without Taylor, the running game was clicking due to the presence of Zack Moss.
One thing that could help Indianapolis finish the season strong is that they have a favorable schedule in the second half of the season. They already beat the Baltimore Ravens earlier this year and the toughest team remaining on their slate is the Cincinnati Bengals. Maybe, just maybe, the Colts do have a shot at making the playoffs.