AFC South: Jim Sorgi
Colts incredibly mortal without Manning
August, 20, 2011
8/20/11
5:15
PM ET
By
Paul Kuharsky | ESPN.com
With a single tweet, Colts owner Jim Irsay set plenty of people in the AFC South thinking about a new world order.
Including me.
If Indianapolis in fact starts the season without the injured Peyton Manning, it becomes just another team. Whether that team is quarterbacked by current options Curtis Painter or Dan Orlovsky or by a player to be determined -- Jim Sorgi? Kerry Collins? -- it will be absolutely mortal.
And against the mortal Colts, the first month of the season could be ugly. They open at Houston, then host Cleveland and Pittsburgh before a Monday night game at Tampa Bay. (Here is the news story that includes Bill Polian's comments.)
While Irsay’s tweets can be painful stream-of-consciousness rambles or hardly-relevant-to-the-NFL song lyrics, I cannot remember a comment on team matters that was not absolutely serious.
He said they have to be "prepared" for an early-season "possibility" without Manning. Let's be sure we don't make that definitive while we consider the alternatives.
Irsay's followup tweet to the one casting doubt on Manning’s status asked fans what veteran option they like. We ask the same in this poll.
Painter looks incapable of handling defensive pressure or the pressure of playing in the league. Orlovsky was let go in Houston in favor of Matt Leinart. Sorgi’s coming off shoulder surgery and reportedly didn’t want to play for the Giants. Kerry Collins retired during the lockout, before the Titans had a chance to not be interested in him.
If that’s the four-pack of current options, it’s hard to be excited. Or optimistic.
Manning’s been an ironman and the Colts have lived with the risk of having an insufficient replacement if they need one. I’ve never had a problem with the overall strategy.
But if, since the lockout, they’ve been working as much on faith as expectation, it’s hard to understand them not exploring better alternatives already.
We’ve debated Manning’s value time and time again by talking about what the Colts would be without him. We might be close to seeing that instead of imagining it.
Including me.
If Indianapolis in fact starts the season without the injured Peyton Manning, it becomes just another team. Whether that team is quarterbacked by current options Curtis Painter or Dan Orlovsky or by a player to be determined -- Jim Sorgi? Kerry Collins? -- it will be absolutely mortal.
And against the mortal Colts, the first month of the season could be ugly. They open at Houston, then host Cleveland and Pittsburgh before a Monday night game at Tampa Bay. (Here is the news story that includes Bill Polian's comments.)
While Irsay’s tweets can be painful stream-of-consciousness rambles or hardly-relevant-to-the-NFL song lyrics, I cannot remember a comment on team matters that was not absolutely serious.
He said they have to be "prepared" for an early-season "possibility" without Manning. Let's be sure we don't make that definitive while we consider the alternatives.
Painter looks incapable of handling defensive pressure or the pressure of playing in the league. Orlovsky was let go in Houston in favor of Matt Leinart. Sorgi’s coming off shoulder surgery and reportedly didn’t want to play for the Giants. Kerry Collins retired during the lockout, before the Titans had a chance to not be interested in him.
If that’s the four-pack of current options, it’s hard to be excited. Or optimistic.
Manning’s been an ironman and the Colts have lived with the risk of having an insufficient replacement if they need one. I’ve never had a problem with the overall strategy.
But if, since the lockout, they’ve been working as much on faith as expectation, it’s hard to understand them not exploring better alternatives already.
We’ve debated Manning’s value time and time again by talking about what the Colts would be without him. We might be close to seeing that instead of imagining it.
Updated With Lilja out, Colts thin at guard
March, 8, 2010
3/08/10
6:48
PM ET
By
Paul Kuharsky | ESPN.com
Heading toward 2010, the Colts figured they only needed minor tinkering to solidify their chances to make it back to the Super Bowl.
We knew some of that would be tied to changes on the offensive line.
Alex Marvez of FoxSports.com reports the Colts are releasing Ryan Lilja, their starting left guard. They will avoid what I understand to be $1.83 million in bonus money by doing so. His total salary for 2010 was scheduled to be in the $3 million range.
That’s three veterans -- Raheem Brock, Jim Sorgi and Lilja -- cut by the Colts at a savings of $2.605 million in bonuses.
Maybe those guys saw it coming, but my guess is in a salary-cap-free year they weren’t heading toward spring fearful about their job security.
The message from Bill Polian: We’re not paying for guys we feel have dropped off or aren’t going to be contributors commensurate with their money.
[UPDATE: 8:26 p.m.: Mike Chappell's report says that the Colts actually paid Lilja his bonus, which is quite a classy move. It certainly also softens my financial interpretation above.]
Kelvin Hayden's going to get a $2.25 million bonus and Robert Mathis $1 million. It appears Ryan Diem will collect $1 million he’s due as well.
As for guard -- let’s put it right at the top of the team’s need list, where a better balanced left tackle is also a need.
With Lilja, a complete class act by the way, gone, Indianapolis’ guard roster reads like this: Kyle DeVan, Mike Pollak, Andy Alleman and Jamey Richard.
DeVan, who finished the season as the starter on the right, and the just-signed Alleman were picked up off the street. Pollak is on the verge of busting as a second-rounder from 2008. Richard is a seventh-rounder from 2008.
We’re expecting Pete Metzelaars to take over for the retired Howard Mudd as offensive line coach. It’s clear as ever he’ll be working with some new young blood.
Lilja's agent, Craig Domann, gave Chappell this explanation, which is a flashing signal indicating the team's biggest pending change:
[+] Enlarge
AP Photo/AJ MastThe Colts reportedly will save $1.83 million by cutting Ryan Lilja.
AP Photo/AJ MastThe Colts reportedly will save $1.83 million by cutting Ryan Lilja.Alex Marvez of FoxSports.com reports the Colts are releasing Ryan Lilja, their starting left guard. They will avoid what I understand to be $1.83 million in bonus money by doing so. His total salary for 2010 was scheduled to be in the $3 million range.
That’s three veterans -- Raheem Brock, Jim Sorgi and Lilja -- cut by the Colts at a savings of $2.605 million in bonuses.
Maybe those guys saw it coming, but my guess is in a salary-cap-free year they weren’t heading toward spring fearful about their job security.
The message from Bill Polian: We’re not paying for guys we feel have dropped off or aren’t going to be contributors commensurate with their money.
[UPDATE: 8:26 p.m.: Mike Chappell's report says that the Colts actually paid Lilja his bonus, which is quite a classy move. It certainly also softens my financial interpretation above.]
Kelvin Hayden's going to get a $2.25 million bonus and Robert Mathis $1 million. It appears Ryan Diem will collect $1 million he’s due as well.
As for guard -- let’s put it right at the top of the team’s need list, where a better balanced left tackle is also a need.
With Lilja, a complete class act by the way, gone, Indianapolis’ guard roster reads like this: Kyle DeVan, Mike Pollak, Andy Alleman and Jamey Richard.
DeVan, who finished the season as the starter on the right, and the just-signed Alleman were picked up off the street. Pollak is on the verge of busting as a second-rounder from 2008. Richard is a seventh-rounder from 2008.
We’re expecting Pete Metzelaars to take over for the retired Howard Mudd as offensive line coach. It’s clear as ever he’ll be working with some new young blood.
Lilja's agent, Craig Domann, gave Chappell this explanation, which is a flashing signal indicating the team's biggest pending change:
"They said they want to go bigger and apparently are going to get people who fit that philosophy."
Colts fans who loved what they saw of Curtis Painter, take a deep breath…
The agent for Indianapolis reserve quarterback Jim Sorgi, who ended the season on IR, tweeted that Sorgi’s been told by the team he will be released today.
In an email exchange, Matt Brei said: "They have not said why yet, but want to meet with Jim on Monday. He did have a roster bonus due if he was on the roster on day five of the league year. His shoulder is doing well and he has been throwing for weeks now. He was actually healthy prior to the end of the season."
Sorgi was heading into the last year of his contract and his 2009 cap number was $1.35 million. (UPDATE: Phil Richards reports the bonus was $275,000 and Sorgi's 2010 salary was $1.08 million.)
It’s a widely held belief that the Colts would be doomed if Peyton Manning got hurt and missed any extensive time, and I certainly subscribe to that.
Manning’s going to get a new deal that will make him the highest paid player in the history of the league. Investing a lot in his backup doesn’t make a lot of sense.
But doing better than Painter or Drew Willy certainly does.
Playing in 15 games that have been decided or meant nothing, Sorgi has a career 89.9 passer rating. There are a lot of teams with bad backup situations that I’d think would give him a look as a cheap candidate to at least compete for the slot.
The agent for Indianapolis reserve quarterback Jim Sorgi, who ended the season on IR, tweeted that Sorgi’s been told by the team he will be released today.
In an email exchange, Matt Brei said: "They have not said why yet, but want to meet with Jim on Monday. He did have a roster bonus due if he was on the roster on day five of the league year. His shoulder is doing well and he has been throwing for weeks now. He was actually healthy prior to the end of the season."
Sorgi was heading into the last year of his contract and his 2009 cap number was $1.35 million. (UPDATE: Phil Richards reports the bonus was $275,000 and Sorgi's 2010 salary was $1.08 million.)
It’s a widely held belief that the Colts would be doomed if Peyton Manning got hurt and missed any extensive time, and I certainly subscribe to that.
Manning’s going to get a new deal that will make him the highest paid player in the history of the league. Investing a lot in his backup doesn’t make a lot of sense.
But doing better than Painter or Drew Willy certainly does.
Playing in 15 games that have been decided or meant nothing, Sorgi has a career 89.9 passer rating. There are a lot of teams with bad backup situations that I’d think would give him a look as a cheap candidate to at least compete for the slot.
AFC South: Where Tim Tebow might land
March, 2, 2010
3/02/10
11:35
AM ET
By
Paul Kuharsky | ESPN.com
Florida quarterback Tim Tebow is working to refine his throwing motion. Will he play QB or some other position in the NFL? Let's assess his chances of landing in the AFC South.
Houston: Ideally you'd like a backup whose strength matches the starter's. That would be difficult with Tebow in Matt Schaub's offense. The team signed Dan Orlovsky to a pricey backup contract last year, then installed Rex Grossman as the No. 2 when he outplayed Orlovsky in camp. If they are especially active in free agency and whittle down their needs list, maybe they take a late flier on him. But with the crowd at quarterback, versatile Rice tight end James Casey selected in the fifth round last year and a reasonably long list of other priorities, Tebow does not seem like a fit.
Draft probability: Super low.
Indianapolis: A lot of analysts have used the Colts as an example of the sort of team Tebow needs to wind up with. In a stable, winning organization with no quarterback uncertainty, he would have the time to develop and find out whether he's a signal-caller or another niche. That's nice, but the Colts made the rare move of drafting a guy they hope to develop last year in Curtis Painter and then carried three quarterbacks until backup Jim Sorgi got hurt. Dallas Clark is one of the league's top-flight tight ends, and they already have great options out of the slot with Austin Collie and Anthony Gonzalez.
Draft probability: Low.
Jacksonville: The Jaguars drafted a quarterback with a slow wind-up at No. 7 overall in 2003 and Byron Leftwich has been gone a couple of years already. Tons of people automatically put Tebow in Jacksonville because he's a local guy who would be a huge story. But the Jaguars are not going to let their marketing people make their picks. They've swung and missed at a lot of Florida guys. They don't have a second-round pick because they traded it last year for a third-rounder (Derek Cox). They spent a sixth-rounder on quarterback-turned-tight end Zach Miller in 2009 and second-year GM Gene Smith needs another talented class that can contribute right away. All strikes against Tebow in my eyes. If he is to land in Jacksonville, it would have to be in the fourth round or later.
Draft probability: Low.
Tennessee: The Titans could well be in the market for a young backup to develop into an insurance policy behind Vince Young, but because they're dealing with a starter who's not a traditional pocket passer, I'd sure hope they'd think about a traditional pocket passer. If Tebow is to become some sort of H-back , perhaps he'd fit. But right now the Titans are expected to have Bo Scaife, Jared Cook and Craig Stevens around, with the possibility of Alge Crumpler too. The Titans have a lot of roster replenishing to do and lack a second-rounder from the trade that brought them Cook.
Draft probability: Low.
Houston: Ideally you'd like a backup whose strength matches the starter's. That would be difficult with Tebow in Matt Schaub's offense. The team signed Dan Orlovsky to a pricey backup contract last year, then installed Rex Grossman as the No. 2 when he outplayed Orlovsky in camp. If they are especially active in free agency and whittle down their needs list, maybe they take a late flier on him. But with the crowd at quarterback, versatile Rice tight end James Casey selected in the fifth round last year and a reasonably long list of other priorities, Tebow does not seem like a fit.
Draft probability: Super low.
Indianapolis: A lot of analysts have used the Colts as an example of the sort of team Tebow needs to wind up with. In a stable, winning organization with no quarterback uncertainty, he would have the time to develop and find out whether he's a signal-caller or another niche. That's nice, but the Colts made the rare move of drafting a guy they hope to develop last year in Curtis Painter and then carried three quarterbacks until backup Jim Sorgi got hurt. Dallas Clark is one of the league's top-flight tight ends, and they already have great options out of the slot with Austin Collie and Anthony Gonzalez.
Draft probability: Low.
Jacksonville: The Jaguars drafted a quarterback with a slow wind-up at No. 7 overall in 2003 and Byron Leftwich has been gone a couple of years already. Tons of people automatically put Tebow in Jacksonville because he's a local guy who would be a huge story. But the Jaguars are not going to let their marketing people make their picks. They've swung and missed at a lot of Florida guys. They don't have a second-round pick because they traded it last year for a third-rounder (Derek Cox). They spent a sixth-rounder on quarterback-turned-tight end Zach Miller in 2009 and second-year GM Gene Smith needs another talented class that can contribute right away. All strikes against Tebow in my eyes. If he is to land in Jacksonville, it would have to be in the fourth round or later.
Draft probability: Low.
Tennessee: The Titans could well be in the market for a young backup to develop into an insurance policy behind Vince Young, but because they're dealing with a starter who's not a traditional pocket passer, I'd sure hope they'd think about a traditional pocket passer. If Tebow is to become some sort of H-back , perhaps he'd fit. But right now the Titans are expected to have Bo Scaife, Jared Cook and Craig Stevens around, with the possibility of Alge Crumpler too. The Titans have a lot of roster replenishing to do and lack a second-rounder from the trade that brought them Cook.
Draft probability: Low.
On Colts as villians, Powers, Sanders, Moore
February, 3, 2010
2/03/10
10:29
AM ET
By
Paul Kuharsky | ESPN.com
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. -- Highlights and notes from Wednesday’s media session with the Colts.
Peyton Manning understands what a Super Bowl win would mean to New Orleans, so he understands that to many fans the Colts are wearing the black hat.
“We certainly understand we may not be the team that everybody is cheering for in this game,” he said. “We’re OK with that… I think as far as non-New Orleans Saints fans, non-Colts fans, somebody is going to pick a team to follow and they will probably pick the Saints. That’s fine.
“We talk about all the stories this week, when it comes down the game though, it gets down to the X's and O's and I think the more you can block out from the outside, the better off you’re going to be.”
Cornerback Jerraud Powers, who missed the AFC Championship Game and did not practice last week with a left foot injury, said he doesn’t know how much he’s going to practice but has no doubt he will play against the Saints.
That’s big. With Dwight Freeney expected to be limited, the Colts can’t afford a big hit in the secondary. With Kelvin Hayden, Powers and Jacob Lacey as the top three corners, Indy is in good shape. Pull Tim Jennings further up the pecking order and it could be trouble.
Players on IR have the option of attending media sessions, a team official told me. I saw Anthony Gonzalez and Jim Sorgi Tuesday and I chatted with Marlin Jackson Wednesday at the availability at the team hotel. Jackson told me he didn’t have a choice -- that he was told to attend.
Bob Sanders has been invisible so far. A player told me he’s with the team but was not part of the team photo taken on media day.
While Howard Mudd is preparing for the last game of his career, Tom Moore has no idea what the future holds.
“My plans go up to Sunday,” he said. “I don’t like to complicate my life.”
My frienemy Tim Graham told me this stat from Tuesday's Mudd column (link above, you need to read it) is too good not to mention a second time: Ryan McCrystal of EPSN Stats & Information tells me since sacks became an official stat in 1982, no one has been sacked more than John Elway (516). At his current pace Manning would break that record at some point during his 29th season in the league, just before his 50th birthday.
How crazy is that?
Peyton Manning understands what a Super Bowl win would mean to New Orleans, so he understands that to many fans the Colts are wearing the black hat.
“We certainly understand we may not be the team that everybody is cheering for in this game,” he said. “We’re OK with that… I think as far as non-New Orleans Saints fans, non-Colts fans, somebody is going to pick a team to follow and they will probably pick the Saints. That’s fine.
“We talk about all the stories this week, when it comes down the game though, it gets down to the X's and O's and I think the more you can block out from the outside, the better off you’re going to be.”
Cornerback Jerraud Powers, who missed the AFC Championship Game and did not practice last week with a left foot injury, said he doesn’t know how much he’s going to practice but has no doubt he will play against the Saints.
That’s big. With Dwight Freeney expected to be limited, the Colts can’t afford a big hit in the secondary. With Kelvin Hayden, Powers and Jacob Lacey as the top three corners, Indy is in good shape. Pull Tim Jennings further up the pecking order and it could be trouble.
Players on IR have the option of attending media sessions, a team official told me. I saw Anthony Gonzalez and Jim Sorgi Tuesday and I chatted with Marlin Jackson Wednesday at the availability at the team hotel. Jackson told me he didn’t have a choice -- that he was told to attend.
Bob Sanders has been invisible so far. A player told me he’s with the team but was not part of the team photo taken on media day.
While Howard Mudd is preparing for the last game of his career, Tom Moore has no idea what the future holds.
“My plans go up to Sunday,” he said. “I don’t like to complicate my life.”
My frienemy Tim Graham told me this stat from Tuesday's Mudd column (link above, you need to read it) is too good not to mention a second time: Ryan McCrystal of EPSN Stats & Information tells me since sacks became an official stat in 1982, no one has been sacked more than John Elway (516). At his current pace Manning would break that record at some point during his 29th season in the league, just before his 50th birthday.
How crazy is that?
Colts' Painter now in line for some work
December, 9, 2009
12/09/09
11:56
AM ET
By
Paul Kuharsky | ESPN.com
The Colts have absolute faith that Peyton Manning will be on the field when they need him to be.
Painter
It now appears they are endorsing rookie quarterback Curtis Painter as his backup -- and the guy likely to get the bulk of the work in late-season games they rate as meaningless.
The team put veteran backup Jim Sorgi on injured reserve Wednesday with a shoulder injury. That means Painter is first in line behind Manning and as the scout team quarterback who helps the defense prepare during the week.
The team took a look at J.P. Losman last week but didn’t make a move with him. Perhaps he’s their back burner guy and something could still happen.
The team also cut Shane Boyd from the practice squad, adding quarterback Drew Willy to replace him. Willy, a rookie out of Buffalo, originally signed as a free agent with Baltimore.
Manning and the Colts can clinch homefield advantage through the playoffs Sunday with a win over Denver. If they do, indications are they will not put an emphasis on trying to go 16-0 and will ease up and rest people as they’ve done in the past.
That could mean limited or no work for Manning. Sorgi has played in 16 games in six seasons with the bulk of that action coming in those late-season situations.
The Colts drafted Painter out of Purdue in the sixth round, 201st overall and have been impressed enough with him that they invested a roster spot in the third quarterback despite knowing the odds of needing him on a Sunday were incredibly small.
Painter
It now appears they are endorsing rookie quarterback Curtis Painter as his backup -- and the guy likely to get the bulk of the work in late-season games they rate as meaningless.
The team put veteran backup Jim Sorgi on injured reserve Wednesday with a shoulder injury. That means Painter is first in line behind Manning and as the scout team quarterback who helps the defense prepare during the week.
The team took a look at J.P. Losman last week but didn’t make a move with him. Perhaps he’s their back burner guy and something could still happen.
The team also cut Shane Boyd from the practice squad, adding quarterback Drew Willy to replace him. Willy, a rookie out of Buffalo, originally signed as a free agent with Baltimore.
Manning and the Colts can clinch homefield advantage through the playoffs Sunday with a win over Denver. If they do, indications are they will not put an emphasis on trying to go 16-0 and will ease up and rest people as they’ve done in the past.
That could mean limited or no work for Manning. Sorgi has played in 16 games in six seasons with the bulk of that action coming in those late-season situations.
The Colts drafted Painter out of Purdue in the sixth round, 201st overall and have been impressed enough with him that they invested a roster spot in the third quarterback despite knowing the odds of needing him on a Sunday were incredibly small.
Ugoh starting; Hood scratched again
December, 6, 2009
12/06/09
11:58
AM ET
By
Paul Kuharsky | ESPN.com
INDIANAPOLIS -- The Titans will be rushing against Tony Ugoh at left tackle instead of Charlie Johnson, who’s out with a foot injury.
We’ll see if Ugoh’s been making progress. He’s been inactive for five games this season, and otherwise worked only on special teams while in place as a backup except for a spot start against Tennessee in the first matchup.
For the Titans, Rod Hood is a healthy scratch for the second week in a row. Looks like a bad move to me. If the Titans get hurt in the secondary, rookies Ryan Mouton and Jason McCourty are in line to work as subs at cornerback. Hood was far better than either of them when he played.
The entire inactive lists for both teams:
Colts
We’ll see if Ugoh’s been making progress. He’s been inactive for five games this season, and otherwise worked only on special teams while in place as a backup except for a spot start against Tennessee in the first matchup.
For the Titans, Rod Hood is a healthy scratch for the second week in a row. Looks like a bad move to me. If the Titans get hurt in the secondary, rookies Ryan Mouton and Jason McCourty are in line to work as subs at cornerback. Hood was far better than either of them when he played.
The entire inactive lists for both teams:
Colts
- K Adam Vinatieri
- WR Anthony Gonzalez
- QB Jim Sorgi
- RB Donald Brown
- DB Aaron Francisco
- LT Charlie Johnson
- TE Tom Santi
- DE Keyunta Dawson
- WR Justin Gage
- RB Javon Ringer
- RB Alvin Pearman
- CB Rod Hood
- LB Colin Allred
- OL Troy Kropog
- DT Jason Jones
- DT Sen’Derrick Marks
I don’t see the Colts going undefeated through the regular season. I am certain they aren’t going to be heartbroken if or when it doesn’t happen.
They could lose Sunday to Tennessee, a hot and dangerous team that’s played as well or better than the Colts in recent weeks. The AFC South rivals have split the season series the past three years -- though a couple of games at the end of those seasons had no meaning for one or both teams. The Titans are seeking to avenge a 31-9 loss on "Sunday Night Football" Oct. 11 and have far more to lose as they try to claw their way into the wild-card picture.
But even if the Colts beat the Titans, they’ll drop at least a game down the stretch when they take their foot off the gas. Coach Jim Caldwell and president Bill Polian have each made it clear that an undefeated season isn’t the team’s goal. Polian says momentum heading into the playoffs is an overrated concept.
Like the Titans, the Broncos will have more on the line than the Colts when they visit Lucas Oil Stadium on Dec. 13.
A team that’s been beat up a lot this year will rest a lot of injured or tired players in games that don’t mean anything at the end of the season. Pull Dwight Freeney, Clint Session and Antoine Bethea off the defense and even the Jets and Bills will find yards. And is Jim Sorgi throwing to Hank Baskett going to put fear into New York or Buffalo?
Indianapolis wouldn’t mind if 16-0 happened, obviously, but it’s not a primary goal. And dropping a couple of games late after a long undefeated stretch is hardly new territory for the franchise -- it was 7-0 in 2007, 9-0 in 2006 and 13-0 in 2005.
Getting in position to win in the playoffs trumps everything. It hasn’t been something this team’s done well outside of its 2006 championship season. But it’s hardly thinking of an undefeated regular season as any sort of prerequisite.
Here’s how ESPN.com national writers John Clayton and Len Pasquarelli see it.
Clayton: The reason the Colts will not go 16-0 is because they don’t need to go 16-0. At different times during Manning’s incredible career, the Colts have flirted with the perfect regular season. Once they clinched home field, they started to think ahead to the playoffs, which left them vulnerable to a loss. That will be the case again this year.
Their remaining five games are winnable. They play teams with a combined record of 27-28, the 14th-easiest closing schedule in the league. Indianapolis’ only two remaining opponents with winning records are the Broncos (Dec. 13) and Jaguars (Dec. 17). They can win those games. But it’s also possible for the Colts to clinch home-field advantage in the playoffs once they get to 13 wins. Once that happens, the Colts will focus on the playoffs.
Manning, Polian and everyone who has been around the organization realize the idea is to win two games in the playoffs and get to the Super Bowl. That’s why they will start figuring out how to rest starters, including Manning, in the final three weeks. If that happens, they could lose to the Jets on Dec. 27 or the Bills on Jan. 3.
Pasquarelli: In winning their past five games by a total of 18 points, all with fourth-quarter comebacks, the Colts have demonstrated a remarkable resourcefulness. But in doing so, they have also rung up not only the division title, but also a three-game lead over all other AFC franchises, and are poised to secure home-field advantage throughout the playoffs.
It would take a monumental collapse in December for the Colts to have to leave Lucas Oil Stadium for a postseason game, and the likelihood of that is extremely remote. On the other hand, once they clinch that right, there is no other carrot to dangle in front of the noses of the prideful Colts, save for a perfect season. And remaining unbeaten going into the playoffs isn’t a big priority for a Colts team that has now been to the postseason eight straight times, but owns just one Super Bowl ring.
The priority for Indianapolis, as always, remains winning a championship, not every regular-season outing. Polian earlier this week debunked the importance of momentum entering the playoffs. That admission could be a tacit tip-off to the Colts’ strategy of resting some starters in December, and remaining as healthy as possible for the postseason. The Colts, who play every game with great intensity, will succumb to a degree of human nature once they clinch home-field advantage, and ratchet down just a hair, enough to drop a close game to someone.
Posted by ESPN.com's Paul Kuharsky
Biggest surprise: Four undrafted rookies made it. Linebacker Ramon Humber, cornerback Jacob Lacey and interior offensive lineman Kyle DeVan have cause to celebrate and will surely be expected to make an impact on special teams if they make the game day 45. Kicker Shane Andrus could be insurance until Adam Vinatieri is fully fit after offseason hip surgery, or they could keep him as a kickoff guy. Fourth-round draft pick Terrance Taylor, expected to be part of the bulking up of the defensive line, was cut, as was second-year defensive end Marcus Howard. He was a fifth-round draft pick last year who appeared to have upside. But the team’s push to get bigger along the defensive line could have cost him his spot. Keyunta Dawson was moved from tackle to end in the changes.
No-brainers: The team spent a sixth-round pick on Curtis Painter and liked what it saw from him as he played more than anticipated in the preseason with Jim Sorgi hurt for much of the time. In a league starved for decent options as No. 2 quarterbacks it would have been difficult to have gotten him to the practice squad, so it kept him as a third quarterback on a team with as durable a starter as there is in Peyton Manning. Will injuries allow for such depth-long term?
What's next: Left tackle remains the big concern. Charlie Johnson ranks ahead of Tony Ugoh on the depth chart but could win the job back. It would be uncharacteristic for the team to bring someone in and insert him into the starting lineup at this point, but they have to at least wish an upgrade candidate in their scheme would present himself. Ugoh and Dan Federkeil currently rank as the backup tackles.
Posted by ESPN.com’s Paul Kuharsky
Houston Texans
Posted by ESPN.com’s Paul Kuharsky
In his list of trades that should be made, John Czarnecki says the Titans should trade for Anquan Boldin and the Jaguars need to acquire Tavaris Jackson.
As this might evoke responses from both Texas and Tennessee: Bud Adams was elected to the Texas Sports Hall of Fame, according to John McClain.
Houston Texans
Brian Cushing could return from his knee injury and play in the preseason finale in Tampa Bay, says John McClain.
The Texans shouldn’t push Cushing too hard, writes Jerome Solomon.
Gary Kubiak listed Matt Schaub, Kevin Walter and Eugene Wilson as day-to-day as he looked ahead to the opener against the Jets, says McClain.
The Texans have the right coach in place, says Richard Justice.
A replay of McClain’s chat.
Rex Grossman will play on Friday at Tampa Bay, says Alan Burge.
Run defense from the secondary and Antonio Smith was poor against the Vikings, and it’s fair to discuss Schaub’s durability, says Lance Zierlein.
Indianapolis Colts
Mike Chappell isn’t expecting to see Peyton Manning or most of the starting offense in Cincinnati.
Jim Sorgi is ready to play, John Oehser says in these notes on Tuesday developments.
Should the Colts keep two quarterbacks or three? Tom James looks at the question.
Oehser’s second stab at predicting the 53-man roster includes linebacker Ramon Humber and defensive back Jacob Lacey.
Chappell thinks Adrian Grady could make the roster ahead of Terrance Taylor.
The Colts cutting Michael Coe gave Phillip B. Wilson pause to remember the guys he covers are human.
Jacksonville Jaguars
Jack Del Rio may be joining the team’s beard brigade, says Michael C. Wright.
The Jaguars aren’t as young as Del Rio is suggesting, says Terry O’Brien.
Tennessee Titans
Tuff Harris returns often to the Crow Indian Reservation in Montana to talk about the possibilities for those who explore outside its boundaries. John Glennon's story.
Jason Jones is back but Mark Jones has issues, says Gary Estwick.
Patrick Ramsey is working to make the Titans keep three quarterbacks, blogs Jim Wyatt.
An injury report from Wyatt.
Nate Washington feels better, but didn’t say much about his potential to return for the opener at Pittsburgh. Audio from titansradio.com.
But even if the Colts beat the Titans, they’ll drop at least a game down the stretch when they take their foot off the gas. Coach Jim Caldwell and president Bill Polian have each made it clear that an undefeated season isn’t the team’s goal. Polian says momentum heading into the playoffs is an overrated concept.
Like the Titans, the Broncos will have more on the line than the Colts when they visit Lucas Oil Stadium on Dec. 13.
A team that’s been beat up a lot this year will rest a lot of injured or tired players in games that don’t mean anything at the end of the season. Pull Dwight Freeney, Clint Session and Antoine Bethea off the defense and even the Jets and Bills will find yards. And is Jim Sorgi throwing to Hank Baskett going to put fear into New York or Buffalo?
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Matthew Emmons/US PresswireFlirting with a 16-0 record is nothing new for Peyton Manning and the Colts.
Matthew Emmons/US PresswireFlirting with a 16-0 record is nothing new for Peyton Manning and the Colts.Getting in position to win in the playoffs trumps everything. It hasn’t been something this team’s done well outside of its 2006 championship season. But it’s hardly thinking of an undefeated regular season as any sort of prerequisite.
Here’s how ESPN.com national writers John Clayton and Len Pasquarelli see it.
Clayton: The reason the Colts will not go 16-0 is because they don’t need to go 16-0. At different times during Manning’s incredible career, the Colts have flirted with the perfect regular season. Once they clinched home field, they started to think ahead to the playoffs, which left them vulnerable to a loss. That will be the case again this year.
Their remaining five games are winnable. They play teams with a combined record of 27-28, the 14th-easiest closing schedule in the league. Indianapolis’ only two remaining opponents with winning records are the Broncos (Dec. 13) and Jaguars (Dec. 17). They can win those games. But it’s also possible for the Colts to clinch home-field advantage in the playoffs once they get to 13 wins. Once that happens, the Colts will focus on the playoffs.
Manning, Polian and everyone who has been around the organization realize the idea is to win two games in the playoffs and get to the Super Bowl. That’s why they will start figuring out how to rest starters, including Manning, in the final three weeks. If that happens, they could lose to the Jets on Dec. 27 or the Bills on Jan. 3.
It would take a monumental collapse in December for the Colts to have to leave Lucas Oil Stadium for a postseason game, and the likelihood of that is extremely remote. On the other hand, once they clinch that right, there is no other carrot to dangle in front of the noses of the prideful Colts, save for a perfect season. And remaining unbeaten going into the playoffs isn’t a big priority for a Colts team that has now been to the postseason eight straight times, but owns just one Super Bowl ring.
The priority for Indianapolis, as always, remains winning a championship, not every regular-season outing. Polian earlier this week debunked the importance of momentum entering the playoffs. That admission could be a tacit tip-off to the Colts’ strategy of resting some starters in December, and remaining as healthy as possible for the postseason. The Colts, who play every game with great intensity, will succumb to a degree of human nature once they clinch home-field advantage, and ratchet down just a hair, enough to drop a close game to someone.
BALTIMORE -- The Colts put backup tackle Dan Federkeil on IR with a concussion, adding safety De'von Hall to their roster.
The entire list of inactives:
The entire list of inactives:
- Kicker Adam Vinatieri
- Receiver Anthony Gonzalez
- Cornerback Kelvin Hayden
- Running back Mike Hart
- Safety Aaron Francisco
- Tight end Gijon Robinson
- Guard Mike Pollak
- Quarterback Jim Sorgi
No surprises among Colts' inactives
November, 15, 2009
11/15/09
7:30
PM ET
By
Paul Kuharsky | ESPN.com
INDIANAPOLIS -- No surprises at all on the Colts inactive list as we draw near kickoff of Pats-Colts and hope for a game more compelling than the late afternoon slate Sunday.
Kyle DeVan starts for the second consecutive game at right guard ahead of Mike Pollak.
Kyle DeVan starts for the second consecutive game at right guard ahead of Mike Pollak.
- Kicker Adam Vinatieri
- Receiver Anthony Gonzalez
- Quarterback Jim Sorgi
- Cornerback Kelvin Hayden
- Safety Aaron Francisco
- Tackle Tony Ugoh
- Guard Mike Pollak
- Tight end Tom Santi
Reading the Coverage: Almost all Manning
November, 13, 2009
11/13/09
9:59
AM ET
By
Paul Kuharsky | ESPN.com
Houston Texans
- The Texans will be in a logjam coming out of the bye week, says Alan Burge.
- Time for the annual meeting of legends, says Phil Richards.
- Whose season was better, Peyton Manning’s in 2004 or Tom Brady’s in 2007? Mike Chappell examines.
- It’s the best rivalry of the decade, writes Richards.
- Randy Moss still scares defensive backs, says Phillip B. Wilson.
- Manning is the MVP, unquestionably, writes Pete Prisco.
- John Maxymuk ranks Brady-Manning as the second-best QB matchup of all time.
- John McClain contemplates Manning and Brady.
- Tom Brady considers Dwight Freeney the best pass-rusher in the league and a look at the 2008 draft. John Oehser’s “Magnificent Seven” in two parts.
- Wilson’s giant and thorough matchup page.
- Richards looks at a couple of key matchups.
- It’s a midseason Super Bowl, writes Dave Goldberg.
- Jim Sorgi missed practice, says Chappell.
- James Mungro’s gone into coaching, says Larry Hawley.
- The Jets chaotic defensive scheme will challenge the Jaguars, says Michael C. Wright.
- Offensive yardage is up for Jacksonville, says Vito Stellino.
- If the Jaguars play in London next year, Vic Ketchman believes it will be against Washington or Philadelphia.
- Jack Del Rio still has supporters, says David Lamm.
- Ten things Jonathan Loesche will be looking for in the second half.
- As the Titans brace for Buffalo, Jim Wyatt looks back at the play that still makes us marvel -- the Music City Miracle.
- Justin Gage has fractured bones in his back, says Jim Wyatt.
- David Stewart’s still out. Gary Estwick looks at injuries.
Posted by ESPN.com's Paul Kuharsky
Biggest surprise: Four undrafted rookies made it. Linebacker Ramon Humber, cornerback Jacob Lacey and interior offensive lineman Kyle DeVan have cause to celebrate and will surely be expected to make an impact on special teams if they make the game day 45. Kicker Shane Andrus could be insurance until Adam Vinatieri is fully fit after offseason hip surgery, or they could keep him as a kickoff guy. Fourth-round draft pick Terrance Taylor, expected to be part of the bulking up of the defensive line, was cut, as was second-year defensive end Marcus Howard. He was a fifth-round draft pick last year who appeared to have upside. But the team’s push to get bigger along the defensive line could have cost him his spot. Keyunta Dawson was moved from tackle to end in the changes.
No-brainers: The team spent a sixth-round pick on Curtis Painter and liked what it saw from him as he played more than anticipated in the preseason with Jim Sorgi hurt for much of the time. In a league starved for decent options as No. 2 quarterbacks it would have been difficult to have gotten him to the practice squad, so it kept him as a third quarterback on a team with as durable a starter as there is in Peyton Manning. Will injuries allow for such depth-long term?
What's next: Left tackle remains the big concern. Charlie Johnson ranks ahead of Tony Ugoh on the depth chart but could win the job back. It would be uncharacteristic for the team to bring someone in and insert him into the starting lineup at this point, but they have to at least wish an upgrade candidate in their scheme would present himself. Ugoh and Dan Federkeil currently rank as the backup tackles.
Reading the coverage: Grossman's chance
September, 4, 2009
9/04/09
10:52
AM ET
By
Paul Kuharsky | ESPN.com
Posted by ESPN.com’s Paul Kuharsky
Houston Texans
- Rex Grossman gets his last big chance to sell the Texans on three quarterbacks Friday night, writes John McClain.
- Who McClain will be watching as Houston plays in Tampa.
- Jim Sorgi qualified as the lone bright spot for the Colts in their big loss at Cincinnati.
- Adam Vinatieri was back in action, but missed his lone field goal attempt, says Phil Richards.
- Contemplating the Colts and a third quarterback, with John Oehser.
- The Colts losing a preseason finale is hardly a new development, says Oehser.
- Stampedeblue.com reviews the game and picks a 53-man roster.
- The final preseason game produced the first win and answered a lot of questions for the Jaguars, says Michael C. Wright
- Maurice Jones-Drew should be OK but Jack Del Rio couldn’t say for sure that the running back will practice Wednesday, says Vito Stellino.
- Assume nothing about Jones-Drew’s status, advises Gene Frenette.
- Mike Sims-Walker grabbed a touchdown in his return, says Stellino.
- Tony Pashos was at right guard as the Jaguars pushed forward, says Garry Smits.
- Fans should be able to understand that rebuilding is part of the cyclical life of the NFL, says Vic Ketchman of jaguars.com.
- Jordan Black got an extension. What does that mean for the team’s other tackles who qualify as backups?
- The blackout didn’t drive fans to the stadium, says Frenette.
- The Titans pounded the Packers in their fifth and final preseason game, says Jim Wyatt.
- GM Mike Reinfeldt says nothing is imminent with veteran receivers the team tried out, writes Jim Wyatt. I heard Samie Parker was impressive and Jerry Porter was, to put it lightly, not. Mark Jones heads the list if the Titans go to it.
- Mark Jones may have done enough to secure the job as returner, says Gary Estwick.
- Starters didn’t play much, says Wyatt.
- Vince Young and Dominique Edison were the stars, says Terry McCormick.
- Roger Goodell has broadened the league investigation into tampering possibilities with Albert Haynesworth, blogs Wyatt.
Old news: Colts finish preseason with bad record
September, 4, 2009
9/04/09
12:25
AM ET
By
Paul Kuharsky | ESPN.com
Posted by ESPN.com's Paul Kuharsky
The Colts lost in Cincinnati Thursday night, 38-7.
They finished the preseason 1-3. Stop me if you’ve heard before that a bad preseason record means nothing to them.
Just a few quick things I noticed out of the highlights I saw and a glance at the game book:
The Colts lost in Cincinnati Thursday night, 38-7.
They finished the preseason 1-3. Stop me if you’ve heard before that a bad preseason record means nothing to them.
Just a few quick things I noticed out of the highlights I saw and a glance at the game book:
- Backup quarterback Jim Sorgi, who’d missed a lot of action with a hamstring injury, had to make the team happy with his first and only work of the preseason: 11 of 19 for 119 yards and a TD.
- Undrafted rookie corner Jacob Lacey, who’s been making a bid for a roster spot, intercepted Jordan Palmer in the second quarter on a throw intended for Chris Henry.
- Punting late in the fourth quarter, Pat McAfee surely didn’t have top-flight guys blocking for him. But DeDe Dorsey was on him awfully fast, fast enough that the rookie should have sensed trouble, pulled the ball down and looked for an alternative. Dorsey recovered the block for a TD.
Reading the coverage: Grady ahead of Taylor?
September, 2, 2009
9/02/09
10:59
AM ET
By
Paul Kuharsky | ESPN.com
Posted by ESPN.com’s Paul Kuharsky
In his list of trades that should be made, John Czarnecki says the Titans should trade for Anquan Boldin and the Jaguars need to acquire Tavaris Jackson.
As this might evoke responses from both Texas and Tennessee: Bud Adams was elected to the Texas Sports Hall of Fame, according to John McClain.
Houston Texans
Brian Cushing could return from his knee injury and play in the preseason finale in Tampa Bay, says John McClain.
The Texans shouldn’t push Cushing too hard, writes Jerome Solomon.
Gary Kubiak listed Matt Schaub, Kevin Walter and Eugene Wilson as day-to-day as he looked ahead to the opener against the Jets, says McClain.
The Texans have the right coach in place, says Richard Justice.
A replay of McClain’s chat.
Rex Grossman will play on Friday at Tampa Bay, says Alan Burge.
Run defense from the secondary and Antonio Smith was poor against the Vikings, and it’s fair to discuss Schaub’s durability, says Lance Zierlein.
Indianapolis Colts
Mike Chappell isn’t expecting to see Peyton Manning or most of the starting offense in Cincinnati.
Jim Sorgi is ready to play, John Oehser says in these notes on Tuesday developments.
Should the Colts keep two quarterbacks or three? Tom James looks at the question.
Oehser’s second stab at predicting the 53-man roster includes linebacker Ramon Humber and defensive back Jacob Lacey.
Chappell thinks Adrian Grady could make the roster ahead of Terrance Taylor.
The Colts cutting Michael Coe gave Phillip B. Wilson pause to remember the guys he covers are human.
Jacksonville Jaguars
Jack Del Rio may be joining the team’s beard brigade, says Michael C. Wright.
The Jaguars aren’t as young as Del Rio is suggesting, says Terry O’Brien.
Tennessee Titans
Tuff Harris returns often to the Crow Indian Reservation in Montana to talk about the possibilities for those who explore outside its boundaries. John Glennon's story.
Jason Jones is back but Mark Jones has issues, says Gary Estwick.
Patrick Ramsey is working to make the Titans keep three quarterbacks, blogs Jim Wyatt.
An injury report from Wyatt.
Nate Washington feels better, but didn’t say much about his potential to return for the opener at Pittsburgh. Audio from titansradio.com.
ABOUT THIS BLOG
Paul Kuharsky
Kuharsky joined ESPN.com in 2008 after 12 years covering the Oilers/Titans and the NFL for The (Nashville) Tennessean. The New Jersey native and Columbia graduate lives in Nashville with his wife and son.
