NFL power rankings: 32-team post-preseason breakdown ahead of Week 1
By Peter Panacy
Yes, Indianapolis Colts quarterback Andrew Luck is back. Finally.
But after missing all of 2017 with a shoulder injury, Luck hasn’t exactly looked solid in his limited preseason action. He was awfully shaky in his exhibition stint against the Ravens. He was notably better in Week 3 of the preseason against the San Francisco 49ers, on paper, but about the only thing that truly stood out was his ability to extend plays with his legs.
Luck being under pressure that much isn’t a good endorsement for Indy’s offensive line either, especially after using their first-round 2018 draft pick on Notre Dame guard Quenton Nelson.
Plus, in that game, the Colts defense allowed Niners running back Alfred Morris to run rampant to the tune of 4.9 yards per carry.
Indianapolis’ run defense is questionable at the second level. But what makes the Colts’ moderate fall in our NFL power rankings ahead of Week 1 is a worrisome secondary too. According to Pro Football Focus, this unit comes in at No. 32 heading into 2018.
All this translates into Luck having to carry this team on his shoulders once again. He’s capable of doing it. But he’ll have to perform at a top level, shaking off the rust all the while, to make it happen.