Here we are, the first game since 1997 when number 18 isn't under center. Do you realize that I was eight years old when that happened? And a die hard Packer fan at that point in my life. Eww.I have sat and stared at my computer screen for the past ten minutes, and written nothing thus far.
I don't even know where to begin.
Overall I am slightly, ever so slightly, optimistic that we have a chance to pull this thing out. Collins is far from Manning's ability, but he is much better than Curtis Painter, and therefore I'm not sure what to make of it. It has been said multiple times by various national sources that Peyton Manning covers up a multitude of blemishes on the Indianapolis Colts, and I agree with that, but not completely. I think Manning is amazing and his greatness is simply expected. Yet the Colts have talented elsewhere.
I think that our defense, aside from the secondary, may be one of the most talented that we've ever had in recent memory. Our tackles are all returners aside from Nevis and we signed two larger ends for running downs in Tyler Brayton and Jamaal Anderson. I believe our linebacking corps is incredibly underrated and has a lot of legit talent. Therefore I think we may have done enough to take our running defense from the worst into the mediocre category.
That being said, with Foster either gimpy or out, that gives the Colts a good chance to get itself off the field.
When we get off the field, what can we expect from Kerry Collins? Well in the Titans and Texans two meetings last season, once Rusty Smith played, and the other time Collins actually led the Titans to a win. He was 14/24 with 237 yards passing 2 TD and 1 INT. This production was all done without Reggie Wayne, Austin Collie, and Dallas Clark. Chris Johnson of the Titans did however have 130 rushing. Collins is not Manning, Collins is not a miracle worker, but I do think he has a legit chance at scoring some points. If we can score enough points, and if our defense can get off the field I think we have a shot at pulling out the 'W.'
Do I think we'll win? Probably not. Yet I'm optimistic hoping that we can pull out a win and shock the Houston Texans.
My final prediction: 21-13 Houston.
I think Collins gets hit far too many times and makes a couple of critical mistakes that gives Houston too many opportunities to take the game. They have a great opportunity to win this game and the division. I think Houston ends up taking that chance and we Colts fans are subject to the second consecutive opening game loss, this time at the hands of Kerry Collins.
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