I’m JJ Stankevitz, and this is Instant Reaction here on the Colts Audio Network and the Colts YouTube page. Joining me as always is Colts Ring of Honor wide receiver Bill Brooks, as we break down the Colts’ latest game.
Bill, the Colts fell to 0-2 on the season after a disappointing 16-10 loss to the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field in Wisconsin. There’s a lot to unpack in this game, but let’s start with the big picture. Shane Steichen talked about the importance of complementary football after the game, but the Colts struggled to find that balance.
While the defense eventually settled down after a rocky start, the offense couldn’t capitalize on their opportunities. This was especially frustrating given that the Packers were starting Malik Willis at quarterback, who had only joined the team 20 days prior in a trade with the Tennessee Titans.
Despite Willis’s inexperience, the Packers’ game plan, which leaned heavily on the run game, was effective early on. They managed to build a 10-0 lead, and their defense seemed energized by the offense’s success. Bill, how much of an impact do you think that early success had on Green Bay’s confidence, especially with a new quarterback under center?
Bill Brooks: It was huge for their confidence. You’ve got a young quarterback making his first start for the team, working with a condensed playbook because he’s still learning the offense. To see him go out there and execute the game plan, especially against a defense like the Colts, it does a lot for the entire team’s morale.
They ran the ball effectively, controlled the clock, and gave their defense a chance to rest. On the flip side, the Colts’ offense couldn’t get anything going early on, which just compounded the issue.
JJ Stankevitz: It felt like the Colts were fighting an uphill battle from the very beginning. When you fall behind early like that, and both sides of the ball are struggling, it makes it that much harder to climb back into the game. Let’s break down how the Packers were able to establish their run game so effectively in those first three drives.
They averaged 6.7 yards per play, with 170 rushing yards and seven runs of 10+ yards. It’s one thing to say “stack the box and stop the run,” but Matt LaFleur had some creative play designs that put the Colts’ defense in a bind.
Bill Brooks: LaFleur knew the Colts would be focused on stopping the run, especially with Willis at quarterback. They did a good job scheming up plays that created advantageous angles for their running backs, particularly on first down when they averaged 9.1 yards per carry. They were able to stay ahead of the chains and make things easier for Willis.
JJ Stankevitz: That’s precisely what made it so difficult for the Colts’ defense. When you’re giving up an average of 9.1 yards per rush on first down, it doesn’t matter how good you are on second or third down – you’re going to have a hard time getting off the field.
The Colts’ offense had opportunities, though. They caught a break when Green Bay fumbled on the goal line, giving them excellent field position. However, they couldn’t capitalize on that turnover, which felt like a significant missed opportunity. What are your thoughts on that sequence, Bill?
Bill Brooks: That was a major turning point in the game. If the Packers score there, it’s a 17-0 game, and it’s a much tougher climb back. The defense did their job, gave the offense a chance, but they couldn’t execute. They had a holding penalty, a fumble, and ultimately had to punt. When you get those opportunities, you have to make the most of them.
JJ Stankevitz: It felt like the Colts were always one step away from finding their rhythm offensively but could never quite get over the hump. Michael Pittman Jr. mentioned after the game that they need to execute their base plays better, especially on early downs. The Colts averaged a decent 7.7 yards per play on first down but weren’t consistent enough to sustain drives.
Drops, penalties, and negative plays all contributed to their struggles. On top of that, Anthony Richardson threw two interceptions. It’s tough to win games when you’re not winning the turnover battle.
Bill Brooks: You’re absolutely right, JJ. It seemed like every time the Colts started to build a little momentum, a penalty or a mistake would set them back. On the other hand, the Packers were 58% on third down. That’s the difference in the game.
JJ Stankevitz: Looking at some of the positives, Jonathan Taylor had a good game running the ball, and Alec Pierce continues to develop a rapport with Richardson. It’s not all doom and gloom, but the mistakes need to be cleaned up. Defensively, losing DeForest Buckner to an ankle injury is a concern, as is the hip injury to Latu Latu. We’ll have to see how those situations progress throughout the week.
The Colts are now 0-2, and as Ziaire Franklin said after the game, they’re not better than their record indicates. Bill, what’s the mindset for a player in this situation? How do you balance the urgency to turn things around with the need to stay confident?
Bill Brooks: It’s about focusing on what you can control. You have to trust your teammates, your coaches, and the process. You can’t dwell on the losses; you have to learn from them and move forward. The Colts have 15 games left to turn this thing around. They need to approach each week with a sense of urgency while maintaining their confidence.
JJ Stankevitz: The Colts will look to get their first win of the season next week when they host the Chicago Bears at Lucas Oil Stadium. We’ll be back with another episode of Instant Reaction after the game. For Bill Brooks, I’m JJ Stankevitz. Talk to you next week.
