Opening week in the NFL is special. After a long offseason, the beginning of a new season brings renewed hope and excitement. Although not always the end of the world, one way to dampen that joy is to lose Week One. The Indianapolis Colts put on a master class of that by going winless since 2013. That decade-plus streak was painful, but it was sweet release when they finally ended the futility by beating the Dolphins last year. With one streak over, the Colts are looking to start a new one.
The Dolphins
were bad last year. No one knew how bad when the Colts beat the absolute brakes off them, but then again, the Colts were world beaters to start the season. They will have to regain that form if they are going to win against the Ravens.
There are a few advantages working in the Colts’ favor. Being at home is always a benefit. It hasn’t always translated into wins but a home game to start the season is more palatable than a road contest. The Colts also have decent health. Some players have dings, but they should be close to full go. Daniel Jones is ready and has an offseason under his belt with the team.
The Ravens will prove to be a formidable opening opponent. Lamar Jackson is one of the best in the game. His elusiveness will be a challenge for the Colts to contain. Early projections have the Ravens winning 10-11 games with 9 out of 10 fans feeling optimistic about the season. Winning the AFC North is the target which means they don’t plan on faltering against the Colts.
The Colts broke their Week One curse. Now is the time to start a new streak. It won’t be easy, but why should it be? If the Colts can win against the Ravens, it would prove to be a fantastic measuring stick. It would be an early feather in their cap. Let a new streak begin!
