Colts Shock Titans, Win First Game Of The Season

By: Tyler Ward

Well, there will be no 0-16 team this season. The Colts, at home at Lucas Oil Stadium, shocked the Tennessee Titans (7-7) with their 27-13 win, which marks their first win of the 2011 campaign.

The last time the Colts won was Jan. 2, when they coincidentally beat the Titans in Indianapolis.

Since losing franchise quarterback Peyton Manning for the season after having neck surgery, the Colts talked former Titan Kerry Collins out of retirement, immediately listing him as the team's starting quarterback. However, Collins struggled and was benched just a few weeks into the season.

Indianapolis then handed the starting reins to Curtis Painter, a former Purdue quarterback, who had held Manning's clipboard since arriving in the NFL. He would openly struggle after head coach Jim Caldwell named him the starter and was benched after horrendous starts against New Orleans, Atlanta and Jacksonville. Painter was benched in favor of Dan Orlovsky  -- who was on the 2008 Lions 0-16 squad -- after their loss against the Carolina Panthers after throwing two key interceptions in the endzone.

Orlovsky, who had never won an NFL game, almost led the Colts to an amazing comeback against the Patriots two weeks ago after throwing for a career-high 353 yards. The Colts would lose the following week to the Ravens after Orlovsky was anything but spectacular.

However, entering Sunday, there was an aura in the air in Indianapolis and many fans felt that Sunday was their best opportunity to win a game this season. And they did, failing to become the second team in NFL history to go 0-16 in a season -- something current Colts linebacker Ernie Sims and Orlovsky were apart of.

The Colts jumped out to a 3-0 lead in the first quarter on an Adam Vinatieri 47-yard field goal -- the first time they had led a game in the last nine weeks. The lead didn't last long, as Titans kicker Rob Bironas kicked two field goals in the second quarter to give the playoff-hopeful Titans a 6-3 lead at halftime.

Tennessee received the ball to start the second half with the Colts quickly forcing them to punt. Titans rookie Tommie Campbell got called on an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty on the play, giving the Colts the ball at the Titans' 43-yard line.

The 0-13 Colts quickly drove down the field in seven plays, scoring on an 18-yard touchdown reception by Reggie Wayne. That gave the winless team a 10-6 advantage and they would not look back.

Matt Hasselbeck would get intercepted by Jacob Lacey a few minutes later, which was returned 32 yards for a touchdown, the second touchdown of Lacey's career. The Colts held a 17-6 lead and it looked like that they would win their first game in almost a year.

On the ensuing kickoff, Titans returner Marc Mariani tried to field the ball, only it didn't work out to his advantage -- the ball seemingly bounced off his foot and went out of bounds at the Titans' 1-yard line. The Colts forced another punt and running back Donald Brown broke off a 39-yard run that eventually set up a 40-yard field goal by Vinatieri, giving the Colts a 20-6 lead with less than thirteen minutes to play.

Later in the quarter, Hasselbeck was benched in favor of rookie Jake Locker, who saw a good amount of playing time against the Saints last week. Locker would drive the Titans down the field, throwing a 7-yard pass to Nate Washington, their only touchdown of the game with less than four minutes to go. They would only be down seven after the touchdown and it looked like the Titans could make a comeback.

However, on the Colts' following possession, Donald Brown would somehow break off an 80-yard touchdown run, when it seemed like he would suffer a multiple-yard loss. This gave the Colts a 27-13 lead that they would not relinquish and the game would finish with that same score.

Although throwing for just 82 yards in the win, Orlovsky led the Colts to their first win in fourteen games, dating back to last season. Brown, perhaps the game's hero, carried the ball 16 times for 161 yards and that key touchdown at the end of the game that put it away for the Colts.

However, the Titans have no one to blame, but themselves. They committed three costly turnovers in the game, including two interceptions by Hasselbeck -- one in the Colts' endzone by Pat Angerer -- and a fumble by tight end Jared Cook.

Former Seahawk Matt Hasselbeck completed 27-for-40 passes for 223 yards and those two costly interceptions. Chris Johnson acted like his 2011 self, running the ball 15 times for 55 yards. He also caught eight passes for 54 yards.

With the loss, it appears the Titans will not make the playoffs this season -- with the loss, the Steelers will officially make the playoffs, giving the AFC just one seed to fill.

If they had won their last three games, it would look like they would make a playoff appearance. But with their slip-up against Indianapolis, they will most likely be watching the 2011 playoffs from home, with the Houston Texans representing the AFC South in the playoffs.

Dec. 7, 2011: T-Ward's NFL Mock Draft Edition

By: Tyler Ward

This is perhaps my favorite thing to do during the season. I love making mock drafts and seeing how it ends up when the annual NFL Draft rolls around in April.

I've been right on many occassions, but I've also been horribly wrong, too (I picked JaMarcus Russell to go in the third round in 2007, but instead went first overall). But hey, it happens.

So, with that being said, here's my first mock draft:

*The draft order is after the results of Week 13. This mock draft is also first round only.

1. Indianapolis Colts: QB Andrew Luck, Stanford

Luck is the No. 1 prospect in the nation and is the best prospect overall since you guessed it... Peyton Manning, who was drafted by the Colts in 1998.

He is also perhaps the most NFL-ready player in the entire draft and whoever picks first, has to pick Luck or they're the dumbest franchise in the entire NFL.

However, if they do draft Luck, the main question that remains if what to do with Luck? Peyton Manning is still on the roster and he still has a few years left in the tank. So it could turn out to be a Brett Favre-Aaron Rodgers scenario, as Luck sits on the bench for a few seasons, learning from Manning for a season or two.

2. Minnesota Vikings: CB Morris Claiborne, LSU

I realize that this is somewhat of a reach and Matt Kalil or Justin Blackmon could go here, but of the secondary, receiving corps and offensive line, the secondary has been the worst part of the team.

The Vikings have continually gotten lit up this season and Claiborne is considered to be one of the best cornerbacks to come out of college in the last couple of seasons. The Vikings need help if they want to win games because they give up way too many passing yards and fall behind way too early in games because of that problem.

Claiborne is the best cornerback in the draft and they have to select him if he's available.

3. St. Louis Rams: OT Matt Kalil, USC

The Rams' offensive line has been atrocious and they have shown that this season, giving up the most sacks in the entire NFL.

If they want quarterback Sam Bradford to not end up like former No. 1 pick David Carr, they need to bolster the offensive line so Bradford can succeed in the NFL.

Bradford will not be able to succeed if the Rams continue down the path they're currently on. The former Sooner has no time in the pocket whatsoever to get rid of the ball and instead, ends up on his back looking up at the ceiling or sky.

Kalil is the best offensive lineman in the draft and would immediately become a starter. With Kalil on the offensive line, along with former No. 2 pick Jason Smith, the Rams should become a lot better protecting the quarterback.

4. Jacksonville Jaguars: WR Justin Blackmon, Oklahoma State

Let's face it: Quarterback Blaine Gabbert has not shown any signs of improvement and the Jaguars have the worst receiving corps in the NFL.

Mike Thomas, the team's No. 1 receiver, isn't going to cut it as the main option and Jason Hill, Cecil Shorts III and Jarrett Dillard aren't a good supporting cast. Gabbert needs help if he's going to succeed in the NFL.

It's also notable that quarterbacks that succeed have a great wide receiver - Peyton Manning (Harrison, Wayne), Tom Brady (Welker, Moss), Aaron Rodgers (Jennings), Matt Schaub (Andre Johnson), among others.

Blackmon is the best receiver in college football and the Jaguars' front office would be fools if they don't take Blackmon with this pick.

5. Washington Redskins: QB Matt Barkley, USC

The Redskins have been struggling all season long, mainly because of their problems at the quarterback position.

Rex Grossman has been downright awful and John Beck has simply not lived up to Mike Shanahan's expectations.

Teams cannot succeed in the NFL if they don't have a legitimate starting quarterback and that's a good reason as to why the Redskins have been so bad this season.

Barkley was on fire at the end of the NCAA regular season and his draft stock has climbed since then. He is the best option at this point and definitely fills a need for Dan Snyder's Redskins.

6. Philadelphia Eagles: WR Alshon Jeffery, South Carolina

It is very possible that DeSean Jackson leaves Philadelphia at the end of the season, as his contract runs up. If he does indeed leave Philly, the Eagles will definitely be in the market for a receiver by the time of the 2012 NFL Draft.

Jeffery, the second best receiving prospect in the draft, will fill a void for the Eagles if Jackson leaves or not.

He is considered to be NFL-ready and could start the season as the team's No. 2 receiver.

Head coach Andy Reid believes that DeSean Jackson is too injury prone to be a legitimate wide receiver in the NFL and the outspoken receiver's time in Philly seems to be done, although he has been one of the NFL's most electrifying players as of late.

The Eagles also need help at linebacker, but they will likely address that need in the following rounds.

7. Carolina Panthers: DE Quinton Coples, North Carolina

The Panthers have been horrific against the run this season and Coples is arguably the best defensive player in the entire draft.

The selection of Coples fills multiple needs for the Panthers, as they need a defensive end and a run-stopper. And Coples is both.

The Panthers are currently 27th against the run and Coples should help the team become better.

Although they are also bad against the pass, there are no cornerbacks that warrant that high of a draft pick. That's where Coples comes in to help against the run.

8. Miami Dolphins: QB Robert Griffin III, Baylor

With Andrew Luck and Matt Barkley off the board, the Dolphins have to settle for Griffin, who I believe will be a better NFL quarterback than Barkley, who I have going fifth overall to the Redskins.

Chad Henne, who is currently done for the season, has not been the franchise quarterback they were hoping for. And although Matt Moore has done a great job filling in for Henne, he is typically not an NFL starter on a week-to-week basis.

Griffin is a great overall prospect, as he has a great arm and is a very accurate passer. He can also run very well, especially if he is under pressure. He may not be like Michael Vick when it comes to running, but he gets the job done.

The Dolphins would be fools if they don't take Griffin with the eighth overall selection. He is too good of a prospect to pass up.

9. Cleveland Browns: RB Trent Richardson, Alabama

It gets clearer and clearer every week that the Browns are likely not to retain Peyton Hillis, who was a breakout story last season, rushing for over 1,000 yards.

But he has missed the majority of this season and hasn't seemed to be playing his hardest when he is on the field.

The Browns drafted Montario Hardesty last season, but he has been too injury prone in his first two seasons and it doesn't seem like he will be any team's featured back. Chris Ogbonnaya has been a good story this year, but there is no way he could be a starter for a full season.

Richardson is also a great pass-catcher and could help Colt McCoy develop into the player Mike Holmgren has been hoping for. The Alabama running back has definite playmaking abilities and the Browns currently lack that on offense.

Richardson is the best running back in the entire draft and the Browns need to get him if he's available.

10. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: CB Dre Kirkpatrick, Alabama

Tampa Bay has been horrific on defense in general this season, especially against the pass. They currently rank tied for 26th against the pass and it isn't getting any better.

With Ronde Barber getting older and older and Aqib Talib being a question mark off the field, Kirkpatrick seems like an ideal fit at this pick.

Clearly, the Buccaneers are in dire need of a cornerback and Kirkpatrick would definitely fill that void. The Buccaneers could also go with Nebraska CB Alfonzo Dennard, but I think they will ultimately go with Kirkpatrick, especially since he seems to have better upside than Dennard.

11. Arizona Cardinals: OT Riley Reiff, Iowa

The Cardinals really have no choice at this point since all the top "can't miss prospects" are gone, but it never hurts when a team tries to address a need on the offensive line.

Reiff has had a stellar career at Iowa and is the second best offensive lineman in the draft, in my opinion.

Current Cardinals tackles Levi Brown and Brandon Keith have struggled all season long and currently, Reiff is better than both of them.

Reiff definitely has a Pro Bowl-caliber career in front of him so the Cardinals need to take him if available.

And hey, it doesn't hurt to protect a quarterback that you just paid $65 million to be your franchise's leader.

12. Seattle Seahawks: QB Landry Jones, Oklahoma

Of course, former USC head coach Pete Carroll would love to take Matt Barkley at this point, but he is long gone. That's where Jones comes in.

Jones has had a great career at Oklahoma and was one of the best quarterbacks throughout the entire NCAA regular season.

Tarvaris Jackson, the team's current starting quarterback, is perhaps the worst at his position in the entire league and if the Seahawks intend on winning anytime soon, they will replace him.

The Seahawks are currently in rebuilding mode and if they want to take a step in the right direction, they need to draft Landry Jones, who should immediately come in and be the team's starter.

13. Buffalo Bills: OT Jonathan Martin, Stanford

The Bills could go receiver here, but Stevie Johnson, David Nelson and Donald Jones seem to be cutting it. Michael Floyd seems to be a good option, but they have bigger needs than receiver.

They could also need help at cornerback but they used their second-round selection on Aaron Williams last season and it seems unfit that they use their first-round pick on a cornerback just a year later.

Buffalo needs help at tackle as Chad Rinehart and Demetrius Bell aren't that great of options at left tackle and with Martin on the board, the Bills need to take him.

Martin is a great option here and could become a Pro Bowl-type player. He is a monster against the run and with Fred Jackson at running back and set to return next season, the Bills could be one of the best running teams next season.

14. Kansas City Chiefs: ILB Luke Kuelchy, Boston College

In my opinion, Kuelchy is the best linebacker in the draft and the Chiefs really don't have that many drastic needs. They need help most at linebacker and Kuelchy is the best option.

The linebacker from Boston College registered over ten tackles in every game last season and he should continue that trend into the NFL.

Jovan Belcher is not a starter in the NFL and Derrick Johnson is getting older and worn out, so the Chiefs could benefit greatly by taking a linebacker in the first round.

With Tamba Hali and Justin Houston on the outside, Kuelchy should come in and help the defense next season and form a great trio for the Chiefs

15. San Diego Chargers: OG David DeCastro, Stanford

The Chargers need help on the offensive line badly. Outside of Marcus McNeill and Nick Hardwick, they have had one of the worst lines in the NFL.

With guard Louis Vasquez battling an injury all season long, it makes sense for the Chargers to draft another guard.

DeCastro is perhaps the top interior lineman prospect in the country and drafting DeCastro would help the Chargers in more ways than one.

General manager A.J. Smith has been known to ignore offensive line needs over the past few seasons, but with quarterback Philip Rivers struggling this season, he needs to fill that need.

16. New York Giants: ILB Manti Te'o, Notre Dame

New York currently has no middle linebacker after Jonathan Goff tore his ACL earlier in the season and is a free agent after the season is over. Mark Herzlich's durability could become a concern after he battled cancer a couple of years ago.

And Greg Jones and Jacquian Williams have struggled all season long and don't seem like long-term options at the middle linebacker spot.

So that's where Te'o comes in. Kuelchy makes the most sense, but he is off the board at this point. Te'o is the next available best option and the Giants shouldn't pass him up since he fills their biggest need.

Te'o could become a solid linebacker in the NFL and he also has the capabilities at becoming an All-Pro.

17. Tennessee Titans: OG Cordy Glenn, Georgia

Head coach Mike Munchak has noted all season long that the Titans need help at the offensive line and Glenn is the best lineman prospect at this point.

Running back Chris Johnson has struggled for the majority of the season and Munchak has primarily blamed that on the offensive line, who have been one of the worst in the NFL.

Leroy Harris hasn't been that great this season and neither has his back-up, Fernando Velasco.

Glenn has arguably been the best offensive guard in college football and if the Titans are desperate enough to revamp the offensive line as they say they are, they'll draft Glenn with the No. 17 selection.

18. Cleveland Browns (From Atlanta): WR Michael Floyd, Notre Dame

Cleveland have been bad all season long in the passing game and it doesn't help that they have one of the worst receiving corps in the NFL.

Josh Cribbs is currently the team's No. 1 receiving option and as we've seen in the past, he's not a legitimate main option. The team also lists Mohamed Massaquoi, Jordan Norwood and Greg Little as the team's other receivers and that is clearly not going to help Colt McCoy become an elite NFL quarterback.

Cribbs isn't a legitimate receiver; he's more of a return man. Little perhaps has the best talent on the Browns entire squad, but he has a bad case of the drops, including a four-drop game a couple of games ago. Massaquoi has been injury-prone since arriving in the NFL and has failed to live up to expectations.

So if the Browns decide to go with Floyd, he would likely supplant all three receivers and become McCoy's main target.

19. Cincinnati Bengals: RB David Wilson, Virginia Tech

Yes, I expect the Bengals to surprisingly reach in the first round for a running back in David Wilson.

Wilson is a great prospect and I believe that he is a better fit than Lamar Miller and I think the Bengals would rather have Wilson, too.

The Bengals have one of the best run-blocking offensive lines in the entire league, but Cedric Benson will be a free agent after the season is over. That leaves Bernard Scott, who is not an every-down back.

Wilson had a spectacular 2011 campaign, carrying the ball 266 times for 1,627 yards and nine touchdowns. Outside of Trent Richardson and Montee Ball, he was the best running back in college football this season.

Wilson has been on a hot streak as of late for the Hokies and if he has a good bowl game, he could rise up into the first round.

20. New York Jets: OLB Courtney Upshaw, Alabama

With Rex Ryan at the helm, the Jets have been known for the stifling defense. Over the past few seasons, they have been at the top of the league, especially when it comes to blitzing and pressuring the opposing quarterback.

However, they haven't been doing that this season and could use a player like Upshaw who made a name for himself in Tuscaloosa for his amazing blitzing capabilities.

Linebacker Bryan Thomas, who was primarily used for rushing the quarterback, tore his achilles earlier in the season and it is not known if he will return to the Jets next season. So, to say the least, outside linebacker has become a great need for the Jets.

Also, Upshaw is used to Nick Saban's 3-4 defensive scheme, which Rex Ryan also runs in New York so Upshaw should be very familiar with the system.

21. Detroit Lions: CB Alfonzo Dennard, Nebraska

I have a feeling the Lions will do what the Giants did last year in the first round and that is picking the best player available, even though he doesn't fill a need (New York drafted Prince Amukamara last year).

The Lions are currently 11th against the pass, but that is mainly because of the safeties, not the cornerbacks. Eric Wright has been getting burned for most of the season and so has Chris Houston.

Detroit is somewhat in need of a cornerback, and Dennard should fill that need.

They could also use a linebacker at this point because Stephen Tulloch is only there on a one-year deal. The Lions also need a little bit of help on the offensive line since they are getting older, but I see them using this pick on a cornerback and Dennard is the best option at this point.

22. Chicago Bears: OT Mike Adams, Ohio State

Like usual, the Bears need help on the offensive line, even though they have done exponentially better this season thanks to Mike Tice, the team's offensive line coach.

The Bears really need a guard at this point instead of a tackle, but they will have to settle on Adams, one of the best tackles in the country.

If anything, the Bears coaching staff could help Adams switch to a guard and use him on the right side since Chris Spencer has arguably been the worst Bears lineman this season.

But right tackle Lance Louis hasn't been that great this season either, as I've watched a few games and seen defensive linemen blow right past Louis, knocking him down on the ground.

The Bears need to invest in an offensive lineman with the No. 22 overall pick and it really doesn't matter who it is because every starter is in jeopardy.

23. Cincinnati Bengals (From Oakland): CB Janoris Jenkins, North Alabama

Despite legal history, Jenkins is the best player available and it definitely fills a need for Cincinnati as Nate Clements is getting older. Clements will also be a free agent after the season.

Jenkins, a transfer from Florida, would fit in for the Bengals, considering their recent history with players with legal issues (i.e. Pacman Jones, Tank Johnson, etc.)

He is the best cornerback available and it would help the Bengals infinitely as they look to move forward with Andy Dalton and A.J. Green leading the offense.

24. Houston Texans: C Peter Konz, Wisconsin

With Chris Myers set to become a free agent in 2012, the Texans will have a need at center, especially with Mario Williams and Arian Foster set to become free agents.

Myers is likely to go elsewhere for a huge contract as he has arguably been the best center in the entire league this season.

During the college football season, Konz was the best center, while blocking for quarterback Russell Wilson and Heisman hopeful running back Montee Ball.

The Texans are practically set on defense if they re-sign Williams, so it would be the offense they need help with. Houston also needs a receiver, but with none really available at this point, the Texans look elsewhere. That's where the offensive line comes in and so does Konz.

25. Dallas Cowboys: ILB Zach Brown, North Carolina

Although they have other needs other than linebacker, Brown is the best player available at this point.

Bradie James is set to become an unrestricted free agent in 2012 and Keith Brooking is getting older and older. So linebacker is a need for the Cowboys as they look to make their defense younger.

With a corps that already features Sean Lee, Anthony Spencer and DeMarcus Ware, Brown could become part of the best linebacking corps in the NFL.

Brown has been listed as a mid-first round prospect, so the Cowboys have to take him if he's available with the No. 25 selection.

26. Denver Broncos: ILB Vontaze Burfict, Arizona State

Even though the Broncos aren't in desperate need of an inside linebacker, they could still use an upgrade at the position.

Joe Mays and Wesley Woodyard aren't the main answers at middle linebacker, as both have flaws in their game. Both will become free agents at the end of the 2011 season anyway so they could use Burfict.

With Zach Brown off the board, Burfict is the next best player available - in the entire draft and also at the position.

The Broncos defense has been playing exceedingly well this season behind quarterback Tim Tebow on offense and Burfict should be able to form a great duo with last year's first-round pick, Von Miller.

27. Baltimore Ravens: ILB Dont'a Hightower, Alabama

Yes, this is the third straight selection in which a linebacker has been chosen.

With Ray Lewis getting older, the Ravens have been looking for his replacement and they will be able to find him in Hightower.

Hightower has been the anchor of Alabama's defense, the current No. 2 team in NCAA football.

The Ravens have traditionally prided themselves on defense with Ray Lewis and Terrell Suggs being the main contributors on that side of the ball.

Hightower should be a great successor to Lewis, who is getting up there in age. And there is no doubt that Hightower should be able to fill Lewis' shoes.

28. San Francisco 49ers: CB Jayron Hosley, Virginia Tech

The 49ers really have no desperate needs, with cornerback sticking out the most.

Carlos Rogers has been very good against the pass this season, but Tarell Brown hasn't played like Rogers. That is about the only flaw on the entire 49ers defense.

Hosley, the best cornerback available, could come in an fill in for Brown or become the team's nickelback.

Either way, Hosley should become a solid NFL prospect and the 49ers can't go wrong if they choose to select him.

29. New England Patriots (From New Orleans): DT Jerel Worthy, Michigan State

The Patriots have been horrendous on defense this season, particularly on the defensive line and in the secondary.

So with the selection they acquired from New Orleans, the Patriots will select Worthy, who is the best defensive lineman available.

The Patriots currently run a 4-3 defense and Worthy could fit in very well on the defensive line with Vince Wilfork. Kyle Love hasn't played very well at all this season and needs to be replaced, thus paving the way for Worthy.

The big-bodied Worthy would help the Patriots stop the run, which is something they haven't been doing well at all this season.

New England definitely needs help on defense in the draft and it all starts with Worthy.

30. New England Patriots: CB Stephon Gilmore, South Carolina

New England has been the worst team against the pass this season and with multiple cornerbacks already off the board, it's down to Gilmore, who has had a standout career at South Carolina.

Gilmore is at his best when in coverage and could become the shutdown corner that the Patriots need.

They currently have Devin McCourty at the cornerback position and that is practically all they have. The other cornerbacks on the roster really haven't showed up all season long.

The Patriots released Leigh Bodden earlier in the season, who was their starting cornerback, but had played poorly. Kyle Arrington has been great, but he is primarily a nickelback. Last year's pick Ras-I Dowling hasn't played as well as the Patriots had hoped, so that's where Gilmore comes in.

31. Pittsburgh Steelers: NT Dontari Poe, Memphis

The Steelers will eventually need to replace Casey Hampton, who is getting up there in age.

Poe, a prototypical nose tackle, could become the likely replacement to Hampton and could be his successor in the next season or two.

The Steelers are one of the better teams in the NFL when it comes to the draft and if they think Poe is as good as they think he is, they'll take him in the first round.

And if Poe is chosen in the first round, he'll become the first Memphis player drafted in the first round since running back DeAngelo Williams was chosen by the Panthers.

32. Green Bay Packers: DE/DT Devon Still, Penn State

Jairus Wynn and Mike Neal have failed to live up to expectations and that seems to be the only flaw on a defense that has been speectacular over the last few seasons (except this year).

Still has been great thus far for Penn State, who we all know is under investigation thanks to Jerry Sandusky. But I won't delve into that for the mock draft.

Still adds a big body to the defensive line, along with the ability to get to the quarterback. He could become an ideal fit for Dom Capers' defense if the Packers do in fact pick him at the end of the first round.

Indianapolis Colts: 2010-11 Season Ultimate Highlight

By: Stephen Patterson

As long as the Colts have Peyton Manning, they will always be considered contenders in the AFC.

However, Manning showed signs of actually being a human being during last season, so Colts fans might not want to start celebrating too early.

Do you think the Colts will go back to the ways of old when they tore through the regular season en route to the postseason or will they struggle to make another trip to the playoffs?

Let us know how far you think Indianapolis will make it this season behind Manning & Co.

ESPN Sport Science: Dwight Freeney Edition (Video)

By: Stephen Patterson

Colts Tight End Dallas Clark Out For Season

By: Tyler Ward

The Colts are losing more players by the day. It was announced Friday that Colts tight end Dallas Clark will miss the remainder of the season due to a wrist injury. He was placed on injured reserve early Friday and will be required to have wrist surgery. Clark does look to return next season for the Colts, but for now, he's done for the 2010 season.

Without Clark, the Colts are awfully thin at tight end. They have rookie Brody Eldridge, who may start for the Colts when they play the Texans on November 1. They also have Jacob Tamme and Justin Snow, who primarily play on special teams. Snow is the team's long snapper. The Colts actually did re-sign Gijon Robinson, too, but they honestly have no clear-cut starter.

Clark said in a statement Friday, "It's unfortunate, but it's been confirmed that surgery is necessary to repair the injury to my wrist. I have met with three great surgeons, Dr. (Arthur) Rettig of the Colts, Dr. (Thomas) Wiedrich in Chicago and Dr. (Thomas) Graham in Cleveland. All three have helped me and my family out tremendously during this process. I look forward to supporting my teammates the rest of this season and rehabilitating my wrist back to full strength for next season."

Head coach Jim Caldwell also made a statement on the injury, going on to say, "Certainly, the guys that we have are the guys that will have to adjust and slide into position to make certain we can sort of fill in for Dallas, who's left a vacancy. He has assets that allow him to be flexible, to play multiple positions. He can play in-line. He can play obviously wide receiver. He can play in the slot. He's a pretty versatile performer."

Apparently, Clark injured his wrist against the Redskins on Sunday night. It is not known when Clark injured his wrist, but there was a point in the game when Clark clinched his wrist in pain.

The Colts are now a very injury-stricken team. They still have Reggie Wayne and Pierre Garcon, but Clark is now out for the year - Receiver Austin Collie was also required to have hand surgery and it is uncertain when he will return to the field. Fellow receiver Anthony Gonzalez is also recovering from a high ankle sprain. The NFL Network's Jason La Canfora reported that running back Joseph Addai could also miss several weeks due to a shoulder injury. If that's the case, it will give time for Donald Brown to get healthy since the team is on a bye week - Brown hasn't played since Week 3. To say the least, the Colts are one of the non-healthiest teams in the NFL and we could see them struggling. Luckily, they have Peyton Manning and with him on the field, there's always a chance to win. For now, Manning will have to deal with the loss of one of his favorite weapons.

Clark was drafted by the Colts with the 24th overall pick in the 2003 draft. He has developed greatly since coming into the league, accumulating 393 receptions for 4,525 yards and 44 touchdowns for his career. He is currently third on the Colts in terms of receptions (37) and receiving yards (347). Clark's best season came last year when he caught 100 passes for 1,106 yards and 10 touchdowns - he was also named to the Pro Bowl.

The tight end signed a six-year/$41.8 million contract extension with the Colts in 2008. So, it's safe to say that he could very well end his career as a Colt. He will be entering his ninth season when he returns to the team next year.

Colts Punter Pat McAfee Arrested For Public Intoxication

By: Tyler Ward

Could it get any more embarrassing for the Indianapolis Colts? In a season plagued with injuries, it has gotten worse for the Colts as they are now looking like this year's version of the Cincinnati Bengals.

With the Colts on a bye week, it appears that punter Pat McAfee wanted to take advantage of it. The punter was arrested for public intoxication. Police say that McAfee took a swin in an Indianapolis city canal - the 23-year old told police, "I am drunk." He had difficulty explaining to police why he was completely wet, as he stood in a popular neighborhood, primarily known for it's nightlife.

The Indianapolis police also said that McAfee's blood-alcohol content level was 0.15, almost twice the legal limit to drive. Police made the arrest around 5 A.M. and McAfee was released somewhere around noon, almost six hours after his initial arrest.

Police were called by a frantic woman, who said that a shirtless man approached her car. The woman apparently thought that McAfee was trying to get in her car, so she ran a red light and then proceeded to call 911.

When police arrived, McAfee reportedly told them that he was waiting for a friend to come get him. He also told the officers that he was planning on taking a taxi home. He then asked if he could walk home, but the officers decided to arrest the punter. According to a report, McAfee reeked of alcohol - his eyes were also red and his speech was completely slurred. Officers also said that McAfee was so drunk, that they had to help him stand up, so he could use the breathalyzer.

The Colts had already started practicing before McAfee was released, so the punter did not make it to the field. By that time, radio and television hosts had already turned the punter's story into a joke phenomenon. The Colts, along with their fans, really didn't find any humor in it. McAfee was suspended for their next game against the Houston Texans, so the Colts will have to sign somebody to replace the West Virginia native. The punter could also receive penalties from the NFL for violating the league's substance abuse policy.

McAfee's arrest marks the fourth time this year that a Colts player has been arrested because of an alcohol-related incident.

In January, Colts receiver Taj Smith was arrested on suspicion of drunken driving. Smith is not currently on the Colts roster, as he was cut September 4.

In August, defensive lineman John Gill was arrested on public intoxication. However, there is more behind the story. It turns out that police found the player passed out in a ditch (good job, right?) The charge would be dropped, but Bill Polian was not too happy about the arrest. He placed Gill in a roster category that would make Gill miss the entire season and he would not be able to see the field. At least the Colts ar trying to make examples of their players.

On September 3, defensive tackle Fili Moala was arrested for speeding, public intoxication, and driving while intoxicated. However, Moala has played the entire season and did not miss any time for the incident.

Colts head coach Jim Caldwell told media personnel, "I talk about it more often than the bye weeks. But that's not the issue. What I've been doing hasn't been enough. So the fact of the matter is we've got to get it straightened out. We talk about it, we talk about it often," Caldwell said. "One time is too many and we've had a few more than we'd like."

McAfee was taken 222nd overall in the 2009 draft and signed with the team before training camp. He handled the team's kickoff duties in his rookie season, but is now the Colts' starting punter. So far this season, he has averaged 44.7 yards per punt.

AFC South Preview

By: Tyler Ward and Stephen Patterson

1. Indianapolis Colts (Head Coach: Jim Caldwell)

Key arrivals: CB Deshea Townsend, LB Jerry Hughes (draft), LB Pat Angerer (draft)

Key departures: CB Marlin Jackson, LB Freddy Keiaho, DE Raheem Brock, LB Tyjuan Hagler

TW: Surprisingly, the Colts didn't do much this offseason (like they do every year). But, somehow, the Colts continue to be one of the top teams in the league year in and year out. Peyton Manning, arguably one of the best quarterbacks of all-time, is back for another season and looks to lead the Colts back to another Super Bowl. The Colts are also stacked at wide receiver with Reggie Wayne, Pierre Garcon, and Austin Collie, along with tight end Dallas Clark. They are getting back Anthony Gonzalez, too, so look for Manning to have another 4,000 yard season. However, their running game could hurt them, as they were one of the worst last season. Joseph Addai will look to redeem himself this season and Donald Brown, their first-round draft pick last season, could take over the starting role at some point this season. They lost a lot defensively, but that seems to never really stop the Colts. With young players like Jerry Hughes, Antoine Bethea, Clint Session, and Jerraud Powers, they can have a formidable defense in a few years. The drafting of Hughes can also take pressure off of Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis, who consistently get double-teamed. The Colts may have some trouble, but I think in the end, they will come out as AFC South champions.

- TW's Prediction: 12-4

SP: The Indianapolis Colts are returning a majority of the players that led them to the Super Bowl last season. While there division is far from weak, there is an extremely good chance they will continue their dominance over the division they have had for a majority of the past decade. With 3-time MVP Peyton Manning again leading the way for this team they will definitely excel once again this season. Their running game is a  little shaky in my opinion, but as long as they are moderately successful then the team should be fine. Their defense may be the only question mark for them, but if they can stay healthy, I expect them to do fairly well this season. Houston and Tennessee are each capable of winning this division if the Colts slip up, but even without taking the division title, Indianapolis will definitely be around in the postseason as long as Manning is playing and healthy. Considering his ridiculously long streak of consecutive starts, I'm pretty sure that's a safe bet to make.

- SP's Prediction: 12-4

2. Houston Texans (Head Coach: Gary Kubiak)

Key arrivals: FB Justin Griffith, CB Kareem Jackson (draft), RB Ben Tate (draft)

Key departures: CB Dunta Robinson, OG Chester Pitts, QB Rex Grossman, S Brian Russell, RB Chris Brown

TW: The Texans could be a sleeper this season - I think Matt Schaub could be a Top 5 QB in the league and will have another 4,000 yard season this season, but I expect him to have more touchdowns. They have the best wide receiver in the league. And with tight end Owen Daniels coming back, he could possibly be due for a 1,000 yard season, like he was last year before landing on the injured reserve list. They are going to need more help from Steve Slaton, who was a fumble machine last season. They drafted Auburn running back Ben Tate in the second round, but it was announced on Monday that Tate will miss the entire 2010 season due to a broken ankle. The Texans are now rather thin at running back and will have to depend on Arian Foster for help on the ground game. Last season, Houston had a winning record for the first time since their inaugural season in 2002. They also potentially have a Top-10 defense in the league with Brian Cushing, DeMeco Ryans, rookie Kareem Jackson and former #1 overall pick Mario Williams. I look for Houston to have the same record as they did last season, but they will definitely be a playoff contender as long as Schaub and Johnson are on the team.

- TW's Prediction: 9-7

SP: The Houston Texans had their first winning season at 9-7 last season and will look to improve upon that this year. With Matt Schaub and Andre Johnson headlining the offense, this team will be absolutely lethal every time they have the ball. If Kareem Jackson can play well and be a solid addition to a weak secondary, the defense will also be once of the best in the division. With Mario Williams, Brian Cushing (who will miss the first four games of the season due to suspension), and DeMeco Ryans leading the way, Houston is very capable of racking up takeaways against almost any team. As long as their secondary can step up and play solid this season, expect to finish with a Top 10 defense in the league. The only problems I have with the Texans are 1) Their running game never seems to turn our, regardless of who they have at the positions and 2) The team seems to have difficulty winning in important games, especially on the road, and often in must-win situations. Even though the team had their best record in franchise history last season, they still fell short of the playoffs. With that being said, I think this team is due for a breakthrough season and with Schaub and Johnson leading the way offensively, along with a solid defense, I expect the Texans to finally reach the postseason.

- SP's Prediction: 11-5

3. Tennessee Titans (Head Coach: Jeff Fisher)

Key arrivals: LB Will Witherspoon, CB Tye Hill, DE Raheem Brock, DE Derrick Morgan (draft)

Key departures: LB Keith Bulluck, RB LenDale White, DE Kyle Vanden Bosch, DE Jevon Kearse, C Kevin Mawae, TE Alge Crumpler

TW: Yes, they have Chris Johnson, who will probably have another big season. But, the one thing that kills the Titans is their quarterback position. Vince Young is a playmaker, but he is not one of those quarterbacks that can lead a team, in my opinion. Like most mobile quarterbacks, Young is inaccurate and will be lucky to complete 60% of his passes. If the Titans want to win games, Young will have to play incredibly well. The Titans also lost out defensively, cutting ties with Kyle Vanden Bosch, along with fan favorites Keith Bulluck and Jevon Kearse. They also cut ties with LenDale White, who didn't have that great of a career with Tennessee - they will probably only miss him when it's a goal line situation. I think the Titans could struggle this year, but will hover around the .500 mark.

- TW's Prediction: 8-8

SP: The Titans definitely made the right decision to get Chris Johnson on the field and avoiding a Revis-like holdout with their best player. Johnson has publicly stated on several occasions that his goal for this season is to rush for 2,500 yards, and while it's extremely unlikely he will accomplish that feat, I do predict he will become the first running back in NFL history to rush for over 2,000 in consecutive seasons. With Vince Young heading into the season as the team's starting QB, Johnson will form a lethal running threat with Young that will certainly help add even more yards to his totals. While Young may have a questionable arm sometimes, he is a very respectable threat on the ground due to his mobility and if he turns the corner and makes a pitch to Johnson in stride... well just hope your team has an outstanding defense or a lucky play. The Titans could still use help in their receiving core, and while Kenny Britt and Nate Washington are fairly solid receivers, they are pretty low on the list compared to some of their AFC counterparts. The Titan's defense will be a big question for them heading into the season after losing Kyle Vanden Bosch, Jevon Kearse, and Keith Bullock. Derrick Morgan, Will Witherspoon,  and Raheem Brock will need to step in for their departures and have an immediate impact for the team on the defensive side of the ball. While I expect some great individual performances for some members of the team, I don't think they will have a very good season overall.

- SP's Prediction: 7-9

4. Jacksonville Jaguars (Head Coach: Jack Del Rio)

Key arrivals: DE/LB Aaron Kampman, LB Kirk Morrison, LB Freddy Keiaho, OG Justin Smiley, DE Tyson Alualu (draft)

Key departures: DT John Henderson, LB Clint Ingram, OT Maurice Williams, LB Quentin Groves, WR Torry Holt, WR Reggie Williams, OT Tra Thomas, DE Reggie Hayward

TW: The Jaguars are on the decline, plain and simple. David Garrard is not the quarterback he was when he threw 18 touchdowns and 3 interceptions. Maurice Jones-Drew is their MVP and will more than likely have another great season like he did in 2009. Their receiving game is more than questionable, with Mike Sims-Walker, Mike Thomas, and Troy Williamson being their starting three receivers. They lost Maurice Williams and Tra Thomas to free agency, so their offensive line could be a problem (they did add Justin Smiley, however). Jacksonville also released John Henderson, arguably their best defensive player in franchise history. Their defense is top-half-of-the-league material, but I don't think their offense can keep up. Jones-Drew is a great player, but they're going to have to rely on the passing game throughout some games.

-TW's Prediction: 5-11

SP: Jacksonville consistently fails to live up to expectations, and I don't expect this season will be any different for the franchise. Maurice Jones-Drew is the sole bright spot for this team, and in my opinion, most of the roster needs to be overturned and built around him. If coach Del Rio can't find a way to have this team winning fairly early in the season I expect him to be one of the first coaches to be fired this year. Anything short of .500 by Week 10 will mean his job, in my opinion. He has never been able to bring in the players necessary to compete in a very talented division and they proved it once again by not drafting a new quarterback to replace Garrard, who has clearly shown he is not capable of winning consistently and being the leader this team desperately needs it's QB to be. They could have definitely used an upgrade at the wide receiver position during the offseason, as well, with options including Terrell Owens and Antonio Bryant being available. They have a fairly decent defense, and Aaron Kampman and Kirk Morrison will definitely be solid improvements at the LB position. Sadly, I don't think the defense or MJD can do enough this season to turn it into a winning year and save their coaches job.

- SP's Prediction: 6-10

NFL Six Big Questions: AFC

By: Tyler Ward


Q: Are the Raiders on the right track?


A: I wouldn't say they're completely on track, but they're headed in the right direction. Jamarcus Russell was holding the Oakland offense back completely. He was one of the worst draft choices ever in NFL history (see my draft busts post). With the addition of Jason Campbell, they could finally get the offense stable. Also, with the signings of John Henderson and Kamerion Wimbley, the Raiders are slowly building their defense back to the Raider Nation's standards. Henderson and Richard Seymour can supply a formidable defensive line. Wimbley, along with young star Thomas Howard and newcomer Rolando McClain, can also produce a solid, young linebacker corps. The trade for Quentin Groves can provide a valuable back-up at the LB or DE position. Also, the Raiders' hiring of Offensive Coordinator Hue Jackson takes pressure off Head Coach Tom Cable, who was forced to call the plays last season. Their only real weak spots include lack of depth at Wide Receiver and the struggles of the offensive line. But, the Raiders could very well be a potential darkhorse this year and could contend at some point in the near future. They have definitely gotten better, but I think they will be competitive when Al Davis finally hands the reins over.


Q: Can Peyton Manning keep up the pace?


A: Of course, since I'm a Colts fan, I say yes. But, realistically, I think Peyton can put up the numbers he always does. Peyton has thrown for more than 4,000 yards in all but two of his NFL seasons. He has won 10 or more games since 2002 and although they may take a dip this year, I think they can still win more than 10 games. I also think that Peyton can pass for over 4,000 yards and 25 TD's this year. With the return of Anthony Gonzalez, Peyton has a nice corps of receivers in Gonzalez, Reggie Wayne, Dallas Clark, Pierre Garcon, and Austin Collie. With the receivers that he possesses, they still have a very talented corps. Manning may not have that many years left in the tank, but what he does have will probably still be considered up to the Colts' standards.

Q: Is Tim Tebow the QB of the future for the Broncos?
A: Simply put, no. I don't think he is an NFL caliber player. He had success in college, but it does not translate well into the NFL. Many teams thought that he would be a RB/FB or a TE, so he really didn't even have a natural NFL position until Josh McDaniels took him 25th overall in this year's draft. After an emotional loss to Alabama in the SEC championship game, he realized that he would not have a shot at another title. Tebow ended his career with a dominating win against the Cincinnati Bearcats in the Sugar Bowl. He entered the draft and was thought to get drafted anywhere from the 2nd-3rd round. But, McDaniels thought he was the best QB in the draft and even said that "Tebow would be the next Tom Brady". He isn't much better than Kyle Orton, but I think Orton can do a better job on the field than Tebow. I think that Tebow will end up being a bust and he will never succeed in the NFL like he did at the NCAA level.

Q: Will the Browns compete sometime soon?
A: They are the Browns, but they may be able to do decent. Mike Holmgren has proven they can lead a team. He led the Seahawks to a Super Bowl appearance in 2005, but lost to the Steelers. It was their first Super Bowl appearance ever and only one thus far. Eric Mangini isn't the best coach in the entire world, but he can do better with Holmgren hovering above him. Since they brought the expansion back in 1999, they have only been to the playoffs once (2002) under Butch Davis. They have somewhat solidified the QB position with the acquisition of Jake Delhomme. But, he is getting old and may not do that well on a very young Cleveland team. I think this is the last chance to revive his career because Colt McCoy will almost certainly be given the reins next year. The addition of CB Sheldon Brown also provides depth at that position and could have a formidable duo alongside Eric Wright. The retirement of RB Jamal Lewis hurts the running game slightly, but Jerome Harrison can be a very valuable player and with Peyton Hillis blocking for him, he could have another 1,000 yard season. Benjamin Watson's arrival works out for the passing game, as it was horrendous for Cleveland last year and the re-signing of WR/KR Josh Cribbs is spectacular because he may be the most electrifying player in the NFL. They are definitely a good amount of players away from competing, but when that happens they could be pretty decent. They will probably win 6-7 games this year, but they will not be the worst team in the NFL.


Q: Will the Jets supplant the Patriots as the best team in the division?


A: The Jets have slowly gotten better and better and I think they can possibly run the Patriots out of the AFC East lead. Mark Sanchez doesn't have a great arm, but he is solid enough to lead the franchise. With receivers like Braylon Edwards, Santonio Holmes, Jerricho Cotchery, and Dustin Keller, Sanchez can supply a good offense. And with the addition of LaDainian Tomlinson at RB, he can back up the underrated Shonn Greene. Jason Taylor also came over to help out one of the best defenses in the league last year. This is a very talented team, who could very well have had the best offseason than any other franchise. I think they can take over the East and beat out the older Patriots. New England has run the division since the beginning of the decade, but their time is running short. Miami is even getting better and could challenge both teams this upcoming year. Even though I wouldn't go as far to say the Jets will definitely make the Super Bowl, but I think they can go 12-4 or 13-3. I can say that they are my lock to win the division and this may be the year the Patriots finally take a downward spiral in the division.


Q: Is Roethlisberger's absence the end of the Steelers' season?

A: Ben Roethlisberger was suspended for the first 6 games by Commissioner Roger Goodell earlier this year for his off-the-field incidents. This leaves the Steelers with underachieving QB Byron Leftwich and incumbents Dennis Dixon and Charlie Batch at that position. The first six opponents for the Steelers include Atlanta, Tennessee, Tampa Bay, Baltimore, Cleveland, and Miami. They could very well lose 4 of those first 6 and almost fall out of playoff contention. The rest of their games don't get much better as they have tough games against New Orleans, Cincinnati (2x), New England, Baltimore, and the New York Jets. They may win 2 or 3 of those games behind Roethlisberger, but they will probably garner an 8-8 or 9-7 record. And with that, they will probably not make the playoffs. So, with the Steelers possibly starting off 1-5 or 2-4, they may not recover and miss the playoffs like last season.