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The Indianapolis Colts have gotten off to a 2-1 start this season, showing the world that they can win games and contend for a playoff spot even without the services of Andrew Luck.
Jacoby Brissett is coming off of a very impressive performance in a victory over the Atlanta Falcons, as the young quarterback completed 28 of his 37 passes for 310 yards and a couple of touchdowns.
Now, Brissett and the Colts will have a golden opportunity to get out to a 3-1 start when they play host to the Oakland Raiders on Sunday.
So, here are three predictions for Indianapolis' Week 4 matchup.
3. Eric Ebron and Jack Doyle Will Come Up Big
With Devin Funchess on the injured reserve list and T.Y. Hilton now listed as doubtful for this game, the Colts are obviously short on weapons in the passing attack.
That means Indianapolis will have to rely heavily on its tight ends in Eric Ebron and Jack Doyle.
Ebron was the guy for the Colts last year, as Doyle was out with an injury. This time around, both tight ends are healthy, and Brissett has been using them both equally thus far, with each player having logged seven catches apiece through three games.
Without his top two wide receivers, look for Brissett to focus on getting the ball to Ebron and Doyle early and often to establish the passing game and to move the chains.
It would not be surprising if both guys ended up with over five catches in this game.
2. Jacoby Brissett Will be Prudent and Efficient
Again, without his top two wide receivers, Brissett's margin for error is pretty slim, and he probably won't be able to throw the deep ball all that much.
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He is generally going to have to rely on short, intermediate throws to Ebron, Doyle and even rookie wide out Parris Campbell, whose role is about to grow significantly this weekend.
Brissett has done a terrific job of being careful with the football thus far, as he has thrown just one interception over the first three games while also completing 71.7 percent of his passes.
In order for Indy to move the chains and be successful on offense this Sunday, Brissett is going to have to be prudent and methodical, understanding that he won't be able to rely on his arm strength to get the Colts a win.
1. Marlon Mack Will Run Wild
The Raiders just got gashed for 211 rushing yards by the Minnesota Vikings, and I'm not sure their run defense is going to fare that much better this weekend.
Marlon Mack has been one of the best running backs in football early on, totaling 299 yards and a couple of touchdowns while averaging 4.9 yards per carry over the first three weeks.
With Hilton and Funchess both out, expect Indianapolis to lean heavily on Mack right from the get-go and try to establish the run game.
Oakland is not known for its run defense, as Dalvin Cook and Co. demonstrated last week. With an efficient running back like Mack who has great field vision and knows how to make the most of his carries, the Colts should be in great shape.
