As Indianapolis Colts QB Peyton Manning sees it, the challenge isn’t significantly different from a week ago.
The Colts last week beat the New England Patriots, 35-34, in one of the most memorable, dramatic, controversial games of the 2009 NFL regular season, and while the unbeaten Colts’ game this week won’t draw the same national attention, to Manning, the circumstances are similar.
That’s because as is the case with New England, the Ravens are a familiar opponent, one the Colts seemingly play every season with much at stake.
Manning said the Ravens have something else in common with the Patriots.
They’re really good.
“It [playing Baltimore] is a grind,” Manning said Wednesday afternoon as the AFC South-leading Colts (9-0) prepared to play the Baltimore Ravens (5-4) at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Md. Sunday at 1 p.m. “It’s a tough challenge. Like New England, it’s almost become like a division game.
“It’s a very familiar opponent, but it is a physical and mental challenge.”
The Colts, one of two unbeaten teams remaining in the NFL along with New Orleans, have won a franchise-record 18 consecutive regular-season games, which is tied with New England (2003-2004) for the longest such streak in NFL history. The Patriots hold the record with 21 consecutive regular-season victories from 2006-2008.
“Playing Baltimore Ravens a grind and a challenge, Indianapolis Colts QB Peyton Manning says…”
When has it ever been anything else? That defense may be aged and slowing, but who wants to face them? Anyone think the Ray Lewis of today doesn’t still hit hard? He could only be 80% of his previous self and still exceed the sheer contact violence of many other linebackers. Plus, he’s got all those years of experience now.
Yes, I realize this is a down year for them. Suggs is out. Their DBs are getting picked on. But still… a “down” year for Baltimore’s defense doesn’t mean it’s no challenge. They’re still going to mix up formations, mix up coverages, blitz from out of nowhere… yeah, this’ll be a grinder. I actually fear it has the potential to be a trap game for Indy. The players know Indy has beaten them before, and they can’t have helped but hear of their record and the points being put on them. Take that defense lightly, and bad things can happen. Thank goodness it’s a short week for them (Baltimore); that works in Indy’s favor.