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The Indianapolis Colts are starting off the 2019 NFL season with a big-time matchup on the road against the Los Angeles Chargers. Frank Reich and company are starting a new era of football following Andrew Luck's decision to retire from football. Jacoby Brissett is now the future at quarterback for the Colts and there are a lot of nerves in Indianapolis about whether he can be the guy that leads a Super Bowl run.
Los Angeles is not a team to be taken lightly. They were one of the most dangerous teams in football last season and still have Philip Rivers slinging the football. Melvin Gordon appears to be ready for a long holdout, which does take a lot of firepower out of their offense.
Expectations were high for the Colts this season prior to Luck's retirement, but now they must prove themselves without Luck. Chris Ballard has put together a very talented roster on both sides of the ball. The defense improved this offseason and the Colts also brought in a few more offensive weapons.
While the Colts are still a quality football team, many are no longer considering them a serious contender in the AFC. Brissett and company have a chance to shut the critics up in Week 1 against another AFC contender.
All of that being said, let's dive in and take a look at three keys the Colts need to focus on in order to come away from Week 1 with a big-time win.
3. Keep Jacoby Brissett Upright
First and foremost, the Colts' offensive line was one of the best in the NFL last season. That must continue this year and protecting Brissett should be a top priority.
He has experience starting for the Colts two years ago when Luck missed the entire season due to a shoulder injury. The experience will help, but Brissett is still facing a lot of pressure. Indianapolis has to keep him upright and give him time to make plays, or turnovers could become a major issue.
2. The Pass Rush Has to Rattle Rivers
Justin Houston was one of the key offseason additions for the Colts. While he is no longer the player that was once viewed as one of the league's most feared pass rushers, he is still more than capable of getting to the quarterback.
Rivers produced huge numbers last season for the Chargers. Indianapolis cannot afford to let him sit back and pick their secondary apart. If they can get pressure on Rivers, the Colts have the playmaking potential in their secondary to force a huge turnover or two.
1. Marlon Mack Must Live Up to the Hype
Indianapolis chose to stick with Marlon Mack as their workhorse running back for the 2019 season. They had the cap space to go after someone like Le'Veon Bell, but they feel comfortable with Mack. Now, it's time for the third-year running back to prove the franchise right.
Mack rushed for 908 yards and nine touchdowns last season. He averaged 4.7 yards per carry and is also a capable receiver out of the backfield. Brissett needs support and Mack needs to come through with a big game this week to help open up the passing game.
