NFL Week 12 Picks: Indianapolis Colts Will Get 1st Win over Carolina Panthers

The Indianapolis Colts face the Carolina Panthers this weekend. This game gives the Colts their best chance of winning their first game of the year. Both teams have struggled for the majority of this season and they both have been bitten by the injury bug.

Here are a few reasons that the Colts will win their first game of 2011 against Carolina.

The Panthers Defense

Carolina has had major injuries on their team, specifically on defense. They lost middle linebacker Jon Beason for the rest of the year which takes away their leader on defense.

The Panthers have struggled on both rush defense and pass defense. If the Colts can establish their rhythm on offense, they can pull out the victory. 

The Colts Passing Offense

The Colts have lost their offensive identity without Peyton Manning. They have struggled finding consistency without their leader. Curtis Painter has done his best trying to fill in for Peyton, but it isn't the same.

If the Colts can establish any rhythm through the air, they have a chance to win the game.

The Colts Veteran Wide Receivers

The Colts have a great group of receivers. Reggie Wayne is still the Colts best option at the receiver position. They always have solid tight ends whether its Dallas Clark or Jacob Tamme.

The Panthers have struggled when trying to defend the pass. They have talent but still give up the big plays. If the Colts can get a few big plays from their receivers, they will have a great chance of winning the game.

The Colts Rushing Attack

The Colts need to show some type of consistency on the ground. They rank 25th in rushing yards per game and only have five touchdowns on the ground.

Indianapolis needs to establish a solid running game to help out their passing game against the Panthers. The run game can help Painter settle in and get into a good flow. If the Colts can mix up their play calls and get some big plays on the ground, they could pull out the victory.