A 30-17 AFC Championship Game victory over the Jets, followed the script of many Colts' victories during the course of the 2009 season. New York jumped out to a hot start behind an aggressive defense and tricky offense, jumping out to a 17-6 2nd quarter lead. But, they failed to land the knockout blow.
I compared the Colts to a Championship boxer. So often this season, we've seen Indy step into the ring and fall behind on all three scorecards through the first four rounds. Opponents are able to jab and to land punches, but fail to connect on any haymakers. The Jets took control of the Colts in the early rounds, but Indianapolis came storming back.
So, where was the knockout blow?
Some point to the two-minute drive, highlighted by the 46-yard connection to Austin Collie that got the Colts within 17-13 at halftime. But, I think the real haymaker came in the third quarter. The Jets had driven to the Indianapolis 37-yard line to start the half, but the drive flamed-out, leading to a Jay Feely field goal miss from 52 yards out. Three minutes and eight plays later, the Colts were in the lead for good.
All the momentum the Jets had built - the effective blitzing, some fabulous throws by Mark Sanchez, trick plays - was in the toilet. It was only a three-point game, but the Jets were laying on the canvas.
16-2 with 16 TKOs and two forfeits. We'll see if the Colts can make it 17 in South Beach.
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