The Indianapolis Colts are set to take on the Detroit Lions in a Week 3 preseason matchup. It's the final game for the coaching staff to evaluate their teams before making decisions on the final roster. With high expectations, the Colts hope to have a team that's capable of making the postseason yet again.

To do that, the entire roster will have to play at a high level. The defense looks to be one of the best in the league, which should keep Indianapolis competitive throughout the year. We should catch a glimpse of that in their third preseason game against the Lions.

The offense is what needs some work. Indianapolis has a rather weak tight end group, but someone might step up in a big way on Friday night. Additionally, the wide receiver room is wide open for someone to take over, giving a late-round rookie a huge opportunity. Meanwhile, the run game should be in full effect this year, which means we could see that on full display. With that said, here are four bold predictions for the Colts' preseason matchup against the Lions.

*Watch NFL games LIVE with fuboTV (click for free trial)*

4. Colts defense dominates

This defense is no joke and has the potential to be dominant all season long. With the Lions having a mediocre offense, the Indianapolis Colts should be able to take advantage of their opponent. It'll be a nice glimpse into what we can expect this year, as the defense is the strongest part of the roster. Look for the Lions to struggle throughout this game, as the Colts attempt to shut them down completely.

3. Mo Alie-Cox steps up

Article Continues Below
More Indianapolis Colts News
Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson (5) stands on the field after the game against the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium.
Anthony Richardson already dealing with nagging shoulder injuryScotty White ·
NFL rumors: Lions beat Bills, Commanders in ESPN's Trey Hendrickson trade bidding war
Lions beat Bills, Commanders in ESPN’s Trey Hendrickson trade bidding warChris Spiering ·
Three mystery players in the middle, Anthony Richardson and DeForest Buckner around them, Indianapolis skyline in the background
3 Indianapolis Colts hidden gems on 2025 roster you need to knowEnzo Flojo ·
Mystery player in the middle, Anthony Richardson and Jonathan Taylor around him, Colts logo in the background
1 Indianapolis Colts rookie who stood out most in 2025 minicampEnzo Flojo ·
Daniel Jones in the middle, Anthony Richardson and Coach Shane Steichen around him, Stormy skies in the background
Indianapolis Colts’ riskiest move in 2025 NFL offseasonEnzo Flojo ·
Former NFL player Reggie Wayne looks on during the 2025 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium.
Ex-Colts WR Reggie Wayne breaks down in tears talking about Jim IrsayBenedetto Vitale ·

The Colts don't have a very impressive tight end group but it seems Mo Alie-Cox is gaining some attention. He's built a nice rapport with Carson Wentz and could be the most efficient pass-catching tight end on the team. Wentz has a history of targeting tight ends throughout his career, which bodes well for Alie-Cox's potential. Look for Mo Alie-Cox to step up in a huge way, giving life to the Colts' suspect passing game.

2. Mike Strachan impresses

Mike Strachan was selected in the seventh round of the 2021 NFL Draft, making him a long shot to make the final roster. However, he's been extremely impressive throughout training camp and the preseason so far. Strachan could carve out a major role in the Colts' offense and serve as a big-bodied target in the red zone. Look for Mike Strachan to make some big plays on Friday night, as he could become one of Wentz's favorite receivers.

1. Nyheim Hines shines

The backfield belongs to Jonathan Taylor, but Nyheim Hines will have his own role. Hines works as a solid pass-option as a running back and will see many opportunities throughout the season. We should see him on full display on Friday night as he proves to be a great compliment to Taylor. If the Colts can have a strong one-two punch in the backfield, their chances for success increase drastically. Nyheim Hines could be in for a big game as he prepares for the NFL season.