In what was essentially a must-win game for the Colts, given what recent history tells us about a team’s playoff chances after an 0-3 start, Indianapolis improved to 1-2 on the year following a win over Chicago.
It wasn’t always pretty along the way, but the Colts’ run defense was much-improved, which made moving the ball consistently for the Bears offense a struggle for much of the game.
Meanwhile, on offense, the Colts went back to their running game , leaning heavily on Jonathan Taylor and getting Anthony Richardson involved on designed runs.
Below are some of the best photos from the game. For a closer look at the Colts’ performance, follow the links:
Best and worst grades from PFF
Game balls: 5 Standout performers
The good, the bad and the ugly
4 Downs: Colts get first win
5 Takeaways from Week 3 snap counts
Sep 22, 2024; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Indianapolis Colts cornerback Kenny Moore II (23) celebrates a sack during the second half against the Chicago Bears at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Marc Lebryk-Imagn Images
Indianapolis Colts cornerback Jaylon Jones (40) runs with the ball after making his second interception of the game Sunday, Sept. 22, 2024, during a game against the Chicago Bears at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.
Sep 22, 2024; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Indianapolis Colts defensive end Laiatu Latu (97) celebrates a sack during the second half against the Chicago Bears at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Marc Lebryk-Imagn Images
Indianapolis Colts running back Jonathan Taylor (28) celebrates after scoring a touchdown Sunday, Sept. 22, 2024, during a game against the Chicago Bears at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.
Sep 22, 2024; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson (5) holds up the one finger while running the ball during the second half against the Chicago Bears at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Marc Lebryk-Imagn Images
Chicago Bears cornerback Tyrique Stevenson (29) brings down Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Alec Pierce (14) after a deep pass Sunday, Sept. 22, 2024, during a game against the Chicago Bears at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.
Indianapolis Colts cornerback Jaylon Jones (40) reacts to a flag Sunday, Sept. 22, 2024, during a game against the Chicago Bears at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.
Indianapolis Colts defensive tackle Raekwon Davis (98) celebrates after making a stop Sunday, Sept. 22, 2024, during a game against the Chicago Bears at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.
Indianapolis Colts linebacker Zaire Franklin (44) pressures Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams (18) on Sunday, Sept. 22, 2024, during a game against the Chicago Bears at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.
Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson (5) hands the ball off to Indianapolis Colts running back Jonathan Taylor (28) on Sunday, Sept. 22, 2024, during a game against the Chicago Bears at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.
Indianapolis Colts defensive end Tyquan Lewis (94) works to bring down Chicago Bears running back D’Andre Swift (4) on Sunday, Sept. 22, 2024, during a game against the Chicago Bears at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.
Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson (5) looks downfield for a receiver Sunday, Sept. 22, 2024, during a game against the Chicago Bears at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.