Indianapolis Colts Passing Offense vs Seattle Seahawks Passing Defense (Tough Matchup)
Peyton Manning made it all look so easy on Sunday night football, hitting 24/37 for 379 yards, four TDs and only one interception on the way to a 31-10 victory over the Cardinals. The Cardinals had zero sacks and only one hit on Manning all night (the Colts are currently tied for third in the NFL with only two sacks allowed through three games). Reggie Wayne (9 targets for 7/126/1) was the top receiver this week, while Pierre Garcon (5 for 3/64/1) and Dallas Clark (7/62/1) got theirs, too. 'Our motto is: Take what they give us,' Wayne said after the game. 'If they give us a big-play opportunity, we try to take advantage of it'. Donald Brown had a very long gainer (2 for 1/72/0) and Joeseph Addai caught a TD (4 targets for 3/8/1). It was a display of absolute dominance by the Colts.
The Seahawks field the league's seventh-ranked pass defense this year, averaging 175.3 net passing yards allowed per game, with three passing TDs given up to date and one interception to their credit. They are currently tied for fourth in the NFL with nine sacks, though - the big guys up front can generate some pressure, just ask Jay Cutler (sacked twice and hit four times last week en route to 21/27 for 233 yards, three TDs and one interception). It's the DBs who are the weak link so far this year - they aren't generating enough turnovers and were exposed by Cutler last week.
The Seahawks have a good enough defense to pose a challenge for Manning, but we're still optimistic that he'll rise to the challenge, just like he did last week.
Weather: A mild autumn day is forecast for Lucas Oil Stadium on Sunday - the high should be around 63 F at game time (45 F later during the day for a low). However, there is a 30% chance for rain - if the weather looks nasty near game time, the retractable roof will be closed. Weather conditions shouldn't play a huge role in this contest.
The official NFL injury report with Probable, Questionable, Doubtful and Out designations will be available by Saturday. Please refer to the week 4 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.