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Indianapolis Colts Control Their NFL Playoff Destiny

J.M. Nicholas — Fri, 14 Dec 2012 05:28:21 +0000

The shocking surprise of this NFL season continues. The Indianapolis Colts (9-4) have not only quadrupled their win total from last year, but they also have put themselves into the driver’s seat, for a top-notch spot in the AFC playoffs. The Colts currently have one hand in the top wildcard spot, but could also wind up with a big whiff, or a big bye week.

Aside from most everyone who expected less from Indianapolis this season, there should be no one upset with the effort and production that this team has shown so far this season. Its easy to look back with 20/20 hindsight, and easy to call the Colts out for their schedule this season. The truth is, this team has played with resilience and resolution. They have broken records and bonded together, despite the “rebuilding” tag that has been put upon them. The Indianapolis Colts are a lightning strike away from making the AFC playoffs, and still remain a dice-roll away from taking a top spot in the conference. This team is playing with house money, and from here on out, anything is possible.

Cassius Vaughn Wins AFC Defensive Player of the Week

J.M. Nicholas — Fri, 14 Dec 2012 02:51:16 +0000

The Indianapolis Colts defense has been used, abused, and often-injured this season. For a team that was exceeded expectations all year long, the Indianapolis defense has been much-maligned for most of this season. Still, numbers do not lie, and the Indianapolis Colts have done their best to make the most of any talented players they can find.

This week, Cassius Vaughn, a third-year cornerback for the Colts, was named AFC Defensive Player of the Week, for his game-breaking efforts in the Indianapolis win over the Tennessee Titans last Sunday. Vaughn, who played his first two seasons as a pro for the Denver Broncos, had eight solo tackles and returned an interception for a touchdown in Sunday’s win over the Titans. On the season, Vaughn has 49 tackles in 13 games for the Colts.

For a defense that hasn’t seemed to shine too much this season, they have shined at times when needed. This is the second time this season that a Colt has been named AFC Defensive Player of the Week. Defensive back Darius Butler was honored with the award in week ten, for his four-tackle, one defensive touchdown game, against the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Indianapolis Colts can Still Win AFC South

J.M. Nicholas — Tue, 11 Dec 2012 04:42:35 +0000

The Indianapolis Colts (9-4) continue to shock the NFL. Not only have they put themselves into the driver’s seat for a wildcard playoff spot in the AFC, but they are still within striking distance of a division title. This reloaded Colts team has stood tall all season long, with a never-say-die attitude. Regardless of wins or losses, the Colts have fought tooth-and-nail, until the final buzzer in every game this season.

The Colts have put themselves into uncharted territory, by winning nine games with a rookie quarterback, while being coached by a brand new coaching staff. On top of that, this franchise finds themselves still able to regain the AFC South division title. The Colts will play two of their final three regular season games against the Houston Texans, and can still aquire a first-round home game in the playoffs.

The Texans have a record of 11-2 so far this year, but have been tested and exposed a few times recently. Houston won two consecutive overtime games in November, but was also blown away by the New England Patriots in week 14. The Colts have won seven of their last eight games, but will face a big test against a Texans team on the rebound.