by Cody Felger
The Indianapolis Colts (3-2) earned their first victory at home this season in a 23-16 win against the Tennessee Titans (2-3) on Sunday at Lucas Oil Stadium.
Despite losing starting quarterback Anthony Richardson to a shoulder injury Indianapolis stayed competitive throughout.
Tennessee’s potential game-tying drive was halted by Julian Blackmon’s game-sealing interception.
Here are the studs and duds from the Colts’ win in Week 5:
Offensive Line
The return of center Ryan Kelly proved to be a big addition as the Indianapolis offensive line returned to form against the Tennessee Titans.
The offensive line, which was missing left tackle Bernhard Raimann in this game, surrendered only one sack and paved the way for 193 rushing yards.
Rookie Blake Freeland held his own in his second career start and was a part of an Indianapolis offensive line that played the part of the bully against Tennessee.
RB Zack Moss
The news for the Colts rushing attack leading up to the game was the return of star running back, Jonathan Taylor. However, another runner was the talk of the game… backup running back Zack Moss.
Moss finished Sunday’s game with a career-high 165 rushing yards on 23 carries and two rushing touchdowns. Moss also recorded his longest career rush, a 56-yard touchdown run in the first quarter.
All in all, Moss was the offensive MVP of the game for Indianapolis and continues to prove his value to the Indianapolis Colts.
K Matt Gay
Matt Gay, who was in the record books two weeks ago, had another strong day on Sunday against Tennessee. Gay connected on all three field goal attempts and scored 11 total points. He continues to be one of the best kickers in the league, and he played a key role in the victory over Tennessee.
WR Josh Downs
The rookie took advantage of his matchups in the slot, leading the entire offense with a career-high 97 yards on six receptions. Downs was explosive all game, recording receptions of 38 and 35 yards while getting open quickly underneath.
LB Zaire Franklin
Franklin has been a massive part of the defense since the start of the 2022 season. The NFL’s leading tackler continued his hot streak Sunday, leading the team with 12 tackles (seven solo) and a pass defensed. His big play came late in the fourth quarter when he and DeForest Buckner came through with a huge fourth-down stop.
Run Defense
The big priority on Sunday was stopping Derrick Henry. Forcing the Titans to lean on their passing attack was going to help the Colts hold onto a lead. They were able to do that, bottling up Henry to the tune of 13 carries for 43 rushing yards (3.3 average).
QB Gardner Minshew
Filling in for Anthony Richardson following his shoulder injury, Minshew once again proved why he’s a valuable commodity to have on the roster. He completed 11-of-14 passes for 155 yards. Though he was held without a touchdown pass, he didn’t throw an interception and finished with a 112.8 passer rating.
Originally posted on coltswire.com