CHFF says week 1 matters

An interesting look at week 1

Indianapolis 14, Jacksonville 12

One-game synopsis: New defensive coordinator Larry Coyer Indy’s defense firing on all cylinders. RB Joseph Addai carries 17 times for 42 yards and fumbles in the end zone; he’s in danger of losing his job to rookie Donald Brown. The Colts passing game could be in trouble with WR Anthony Gonzalez going down injured. Jacksonville’s Defensive Hogs sack Manning once, forces an interception and holds the Colts to 2.3 yards per carry. Maurice Jones-Drew (121 yards) looks like a one-man team.

What was right: The Colts’ defense isn’t perfect, but good enough (No. 8 in scoring) to get them to the Super Bowl. M-J-D was unquestionably the Jags’ M-V-P.

The Week 1 winner is better at the end of the year (14-2 vs. 7-9).

What was wrong: Addai recovered, and Brown got less time as the season went along. Gonzalez wasn’t missed as Austin Collie and Pierre Garcon came out of nowhere to play like stars. Jacksonville’s Defensive Hogs finish 28th.

Nostradamus grade: C-