It's been a spring of dysfunction for the Patriots, who have lost their Hall of Fame tight end, starting left tackle, best defensive lineman, defensive play-caller, three defensive coaches and their new defensive coordinator since the confetti rained down in Atlanta. Though Vegas still expects New England to win 11 games this season, their holes may create an opening in the AFC. The Colts, fresh off a surprise playoff berth, seem poised to take advantage of that.
At least, that's what their erratic owner thinks.
Jim Irsay told the Indianapolis Star recently he thinks it's time for his team to go on a dynastic run. "I really feel like this is a young team that's ascending," he said. "You guys know, I will unabashedly say, I'd like to win three in a row. How hard is it? I mean, it's hard as hell just to win one."
Indianapolis rebounded from a dismal 4-12 campaign to go 10-6 and capture one of the conference's two Wild Card spots. Andrew Luck looked recovered from a shoulder injury and threw for nearly 4,600 yards. They even won a playoff game, defeating the Texans in the opening round, which prompted Irsay to give a dizzying postgame speech.
I'm not sure, but I think #Colts owner Jim Irsay...1) Had cash on the game2) Thought there was a 14 point deficit3) Is the rainmaker #INDvHOU #NFLWildCard pic.twitter.com/lNsJnQ2oYf
— 49 Cent Banana (@49CentBanana) January 6, 2019Unfortunately for the Colts, they were outplayed dramatically in the Divisional Round, losing to the Chiefs 31-13 at Arrowhead Stadium. They didn't stand a chance in the freezing outdoor elements.
To gear up for this season, the Colts have plucked pass-rusher Justin Houston from Kansas City, which also traded away Dee Ford.
If the Patriots slip, there isn't a designated team ready to take the reigns. The Colts appear to be on the cusp, like they were earlier in the decade, before Luck's injuries started to mount.
Perhaps their latest run will end with more than a runner-up banner.
