AFC SOUTH - INDIANAPOLIS COLTS

2006 PREVIEW

The Colts had the best record in football last season, but they may have peaked too soon going on cruise control after a 12-0 start. Thus their first playoff game came after what was virtually a month-long bye, and the rustiness showed in the loss to the Steelers.

You can bet that if the Colts clinch early again this season, the regulars will see a lot more action in the latter part of the year to prevent a repeat of last season. That being the case, we look for Indianapolis to represent the AFC in Super Bowl XLI. Yes the Colts allowed Edgerrin James to leave via free agency, but we feel they stole running back Joseph Addai with the 30 th pick of the draft. This kid has terrific raw speed and has an explosiveness that James lacked, and he is also a fine receiver out of the backfield. He will start the year as a backup to the talented Dominic Rhodes, but Addai may force Coach Tony Dungy to start him sooner rather than later, and if that happens, Addai immediately becomes a Rookie of the Year candidate. Regardless, he will have an immediate impact on the offense no matter what, so there are no concerns surrounding the best offense in football led by the lethal Peyton Manning to Marvin Harrison connection. Do not forget that Reggie Wayne is the best number two receiver in the NFL also.

While the offense has always been there, it was the improving defense that turned the Colts into Super Bowl contenders last season, and it is this unit that should get them there this year. The defense lost no veterans of note in the off-season, and they added two speedy draftees in second round pick cornerback Tim Jennings and third rounder linebacker Freddie Keiaho. These youngsters should contribute immediately to the fastest defense in football. Finally, Indianapolis also added the best clutch kicker in the game in Adam Vinatieri.

2006 Prediction: 1 st Place AFC South, AFC CHAMPION, Super Bowl Runner-up