Are 2007 Colts Even Better?

To say the Indianapolis Colts picked up right where they left off would be an understatement. Last year’s Colts wouldn’t give up only a field goal against a top NFL offense (remember the other seven points for the Saints came from a fumble recovery on defense). Even when the offense looked bad in the first half against New Orleans, it looked pretty good. Even though the offense often looked disorganized early on, the Colts were tied at the half against possibly the best team the NFC will field this year. When they looked good in the second half, they looked REALLY good.

The Colts look like they have managed to improve everywhere. They have an every-down back, a healthier defense, revamped kick coverage, and (perhaps most importantly) more confidence and patience. The Colts know they can win the Super Bowl now. They also know they don’t have to be perfect (remember the flubs in the AFC Championship and the Super Bowl?) Indianapolis seems to have stolen the Patriots’ mojo, and they now look like the team that always feels they will get on a roll whenever they need to.

The fantasy rankings of all the big Colts stars look totally justified–maybe even low (especially Dallas Clark). Grab Clark if he is hiding on your waiver wire, and congratulate yourself if you are the proud owner of Manning, Addai, Wayne, or Harrison. And (dare I say it?) maybe even the Colts’ defense?