Indianapolis Colts in the Playoffs: Why Doubt It?

Yes, we understand that the 3-4 start to the season was a little bit scary. And yes, we understand that Peyton's knee debacle to start the year put fear in our hearts.  

But why did we ever doubt that the Colts would pull through and make a charge toward another 12-win season and emerge as quite possibly the most dangerous threat to come out of the AFC this year?

The Colts are finally starting to run on all cylinders, just in time for the playoff stretch run. The offense should not concern any fan and has exploded after the emergence of Dominic Rhodes and Dallas Clark, who have carried the load when perennial stars Reggie Wayne and Marvin Harrison are being covered.  

However, the old cliché that defenses win championships is where this team will get it done.

The Colts' defense is shaping up just like the Super Bowl year. Bob Sanders is playing here and there, while Gary Brackett is resting up in order to be healthy enough to make punishing hits when it counts.

All the while, key backups and role players are getting the necessary experience to make a difference.

LB Robert Session has taken advantage and continues to improve while SS Melvin Bullitt continues to match his last name by flying around the field and making big plays.

This argument can be disputed by the fact that the Colts gave up 21 to the Lions—yes, the 0-14 Lions. However, it should be taken into account that the Colts' youth is still learning to play alone and will be much better off when the leaders get back to the field, just in time for a playoff run.

Just like in the Super Bowl year, the Colts' fate rests on the shoulders of Peyton Manning, who has been on fire lately.

He has battled back from a tough injury and has sustained his ability to make plays all over the field to one of the best receiving corps in the league. Is there really a better unit than Reggie Wayne, Marvin Harrison, Dallas Clark, and Anthony Gonzalez?

As long as the defense gets off the field and Peyton's offense has the ball, this team is just as dangerous as any when it matters.