Can the Indianapolis Colts’ pass rush find a way to get after and disrupt Broncos’ quarterback Bo Nix?
The answer to this question could very well play a pivotal role in determining the outcome of Sunday’s game.
Not surprisingly, since the return of DeForest Buckner from injured reserve around the middle point of the season, the Colts pass rush has been much more effective. Overall, the Colts have generated the 11th best pressure rate on opposing quarterbacks this season, according to Pro Football Reference.
Individually, Buckner ranks ninth among all interior defensive tackles since Week 8 in pressures. On the year, Dayo Odeyingbo ranks 36th among defensive ends in pressures and Laiatu Latu is 42nd out of 118 eligible players.
But awaiting the Indianapolis’ front this week is a Denver offensive line that has allowed the seventh-lowest pressure rate in 2024, the third-fewest sacks, and the collective unit ranks first in PFF’s pass-blocking efficiency metric.
As we all know, pressure can disrupt the timing and rhythm of the play, resulting in mistakes, passing windows missed, and less time in coverage for the defensive backs.
When Nix has thrown from a clean pocket this season–which has been relatively often–he is completing 71% of his throws at 7.0 yards per attempt with 14 touchdowns to four interceptions. On the flip side, when under pressure, his completion percentage drops to 44%, his yards per pass is only 5.3, and he’s thrown three touchdowns and four interceptions.
Given how little the Colts blitz under defensive coordinator Gus Bradley, it’s going to be up to the front to win their matchups and get home.
But in order to have those true pass rush opportunities, the Colts have to eat their vegetables on early downs and stop the run. Doing so can put Denver behind the sticks and in obvious passing situations where the defensive front can pin its ears back.
The Broncos are averaging 4.2 yards per carry this season, which ranks 19th, but as we’ve seen, the Colts can really struggle to stop the run.
In a nuanced game like football, there are always many factors in play that go into determining the outcome of a game. And while pressuring the quarterback is always good, this week it will be particularly important in order for the Colts’ defense to find success.
