Colts Defense, Leonard Dominate In Statement Win Over Washington

The Colts defeated the Redskins on the road, 21-9, improving 1-1. Many doubted the Colts’ chances coming in. Playing in Washington is never easy; the Skins’ are a tough, gritty team who plays ball control football. Moreover, the Redskins annihilated the Cardinals last week, winning 24-6. The Redskins’ offense was in excellent position to put up big numbers against an ostensibly exploitable Colts unit. However, as we know, that was not the case.

Indianapolis’ defense in this game was simply dominant. They controlled the pace of the game; they dictated the Redskins’ offensive gameplan. This once electric Washington offense couldn’t muster a touchdown against this defense. Alex Smith threw the ball 46 times for 292 yards but his “captain checkdown” alter-ego was in full effect. His longest pass was a 34-yard pass to Paul Richardson. Washington’s leading rusher was Jamison Crowder, with two carries for 29 yards. The Colts held Adrian Peterson to 20 yards on 11 carries.

Darius Leonard performed like the defensive rookie of the year, recording 18 tackles, a sack, a tackle for loss, a QB hit, a pass deflection, and a forced fumble. He was all over the field and contained the Skins’ short passing game beautifully. Clayton Geathers added 12 tackles. Pierre Desir had an excellent showing in coverage, recording two pass deflections. Jabaal Sheard put pressure on Alex Smith and defended the run well, recording a sack. Margus Hunt continued his hot streak, making two tackles for loss.

The Colts’ offense wasn’t spectacular but was able to sustain drives when they needed to and make plays. Andrew Luck was solid, with 179 yards, two touchdowns, and two picks. Andrew Luck didn’t have to carry this team today, which is ideal. The offensive line, missing Anthony Castonzo, had a day, only allowing one sack. Nyheim Hines carried the ball four times for seven yards, recording his first NFL touchdown. Despite Marlon Mack being active, Jordan Wilkins led the Colts in rushing yards with 61, toting the rock 10 times. T.Y Hilton showed a great connection with Andrew Luck, catching seven passes for 83 yards and a touchdown. Eric Ebron caught three passes for 26 yards, including a beautiful touchdown catch in the corner of the end zone on a back shoulder fade.

This Colts team is an unlucky fumble away from being 2-0 and shocking many. They go into next week’s heavyweight fight against the juggernaut Eagles with great momentum. Even if Carson Wentz plays, this Colts team has shown they can compete in any game they play in.

Ben Pfeifer is the Managing Editor of the Colts for Full Press Coverage, the AFC South Division Editor, and head NBA editor. Want to continue the discussion? Contact Ben Pfeifer on Twitter @Ben_Pfeifer_, @FPC_NBA and @FPC_Colts.