The Indianapolis Colts are out of the AFC dungeon.

A 30–13 victory over Washington brings Indianapolis to 2–2 and gives the Colts something valuable after four games: room to move forward. They avoided falling to 1–3, and they are nowhere near the dreaded 0–4 start that leaves a team needing four consecutive wins just to reach .500.

At 2–2, the Colts can focus on getting above .500 instead of spending the next several weeks chasing it. This win could also have immediate implications in the AFC South. Jacksonville entered its matchup at Cincinnati at 2–1. A Jaguars loss would leave both teams at 2–2 and could put Indianapolis in a share of the division lead.

That possibility remains conditional, but Indianapolis has already done its part.

Taylor Gives Indianapolis a Foundation

The Colts did not need a big passing performance from Daniel Jones to put 30 points on the board. Jones completed 19 of 34 passes for 143 yards, with no passing touchdowns and one interception. His 55.9% completion rate left plenty of room for improvement.

Jonathan Taylor supplied the offensive foundation, rushing 20 times for 95 yards and two touchdowns. Indianapolis finished with 128 rushing yards and three touchdowns on the ground, including a four-yard scoring run from Jones in the fourth quarter.

Spencer Shrader added field goals from 48, 52 and 44 yards. The Colts found enough production through their running game and kicking game to win comfortably despite their limited passing output.

Mariota’s Injury Complicates Washington’s Afternoon

Washington lost Marcus Mariota to a right knee injury in the first quarter. Before leaving, Mariota completed three of four passes for 46 yards and added a 35-yard run.

Athan Kaliakmanis took over and finished 15 of 33 for 186 yards, one touchdown and one interception. His 47-yard touchdown pass to Treylon Burks brought Washington within 17–13 with 10:39 remaining in the third quarter.

Washington still had a chance at that point. Indianapolis answered with 13 unanswered points to close the scoring.

The lack of a productive running game made Washington’s adjustment harder. Its 100 team rushing yards look respectable until the breakdown is considered: Mariota and Kaliakmanis supplied 51 of them. Washington’s running backs combined for just 49 yards on 18 carries, averaging 2.7 yards per attempt.

S³ Takeaway

Washington losing Mariota is important context when evaluating this result. Indianapolis still capitalized on the opportunity, leaned on Taylor and pulled away after Washington made it a four-point game.

The passing game needs to improve before the Colts can establish themselves as a consistent threat. But reaching 2–2 changes their position. They have breathing room, a chance to build momentum and a potential opening in the division.

The Colts got out of the dungeon before the door locked.

Sweet Science Sports • S³