The Indianapolis Colts (3-5) suffered a disappointing loss to the New Orleans Saints (4-4) at Lucas Oil Stadium, with a final score of 38-27. Despite a close halftime score, the Colts’ defense struggled in the second half, and a crucial turnover from Gardner Minshew shifted momentum in favor of the Saints. Here’s a breakdown of everything we learned from the Week 8 loss:
Quarter 1 Quarter 2 Quarter 3 Quarter 4 Final
Saints 7 14 7 10 38
Colts 7 13 0 7 27
In the fourth quarter, the Saints managed to secure a two-possession lead with a late field goal, effectively squashing any hopes of a game-tying drive from the Colts. The Colts’ defense struggled against the Saints’ offense, allowing a total of 511 yards, the highest total they’ve given up this season. They only managed to record one sack and two quarterback hits. Cornerback Tony Brown, who played on the outside, had a tough time in coverage and was largely responsible for allowing Saints wide receiver Rasheed Shaheed to rack up three receptions for 153 yards and a touchdown. The Saints had an impressive 75% success rate in the red zone, scoring on three out of four trips.
Despite the loss, there were some standout performances from Colts players. Running back Jonathan Taylor had a strong showing, with 12 carries for 95 rushing yards, including a 42-yard run on the second drive. Rookie wide receiver Josh Downs once again showcased his talent, leading the team in receiving yards for the second consecutive week with seven receptions for 72 yards. Linebacker Zaire Franklin played through a knee injury and still managed to lead the team with 14 tackles, one pass defensed, and several run stops.
The Colts’ defense has struggled throughout the season, allowing at least 37 points in three games and giving up a season-high 511 yards in this particular game. The secondary remains a major concern, and the pass rush was largely ineffective, aside from a strip-sack by DeForest Buckner. On the injury front, cornerback Julius Brents, defensive tackle Eric Johnson II, tight end Kylen Granson, and right tackle Braden Smith were inactive due to injuries. Linebacker Zaire Franklin briefly left the game with a knee injury but returned later.
This loss marks the Colts’ third consecutive defeat and their fourth in the last five games. However, there were some individual accomplishments to note. With his 95 rushing yards, Jonathan Taylor surpassed Marshall Faulk’s record for the second-most rushing yards by a Colts player in their first four seasons. Additionally, the Colts remain the only team to score at least 20 points in every game this season. Unfortunately, the Colts have now lost 12 straight games in which they’ve committed a turnover.
Looking ahead, Colts head coach Shane Steichen will hold a conference call with the media before the team prepares for their Week 9 matchup against the Carolina Panthers (1-6) at Bank of America Stadium. Stay updated with Colts Wire for all the latest news, and for comprehensive coverage of local Indianapolis news, entertainment, and culture, subscribe to The Indianapolis Star.
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