Three thoughts out of Andy Benoit’s Colts' preview at the New York Times’ Fifth Down blog:

Benoit: “(Cory) Redding is a high-motored veteran who knows how to get off blocks and into the backfield. He can help Fili Moala learn the nuances of the new scheme. The fourth-year pro did a good job of holding his ground in lateral movement as a defensive tackle last season and could be an ideal fit at the five technique spot (aligned over the offensive tackle’s outside shoulder).”

My reaction: I like hearing that Moala is a good fit here. Like end-turning-outside-linebacker Jerry Hughes, some thought he seemed like a bit of an odd selection for Bill Polian given the system the Colts employed at the time.

Benoit: “Expect Pagano to use plenty of presnap disguises and overload blitz looks in obvious passing situations to compel offenses to play at a more hurried pace. Pagano can’t afford to have this pass rush be as anemic as it was in 2011. Otherwise, the Colt defense will yield a completion percentage greater than 70 for a second straight year.”

My reaction: While it’s a new scheme for Antoine Bethea, he’s a smart player who will adjust. And while I’m not yet sold on Tom Zbikowski as a starter, he knows the defense. Those two should be keys in the important disguising.

Benoit: “(Cassius Vaughn) will compete for slot duties with free agent acquisition Justin King, who doesn’t change directions smoothly enough to be an everydown player.”

My reaction: The concern started as high on the depth chart as No. 2 corner before the trade for Vontae Davis. As least they’ve bumped it back a slot. Offenses should still be trying to get the Colts in nickel or dime.