Tip to SB, NFL.com talks Clyde Christensen
Led by new offensive line coach Pete Metzelaars, the Colts are undergoing a major makeover along the line. The former NFL tight end steps in to replace Howard Mudd as the team’s offensive line coach, and Metzelaars inherits a unit that will be drastically different in the fall. Although four-time Pro Bowl center Jeff Saturday returns to anchor the unit, he will play alongside a pair of new guards this year. The Colts jettisoned Ryan Lilja during the offseason and signed free agents Andy Alleman and Adam Terry. The team also added guard Jacques McClendon in the April draft. With more size along the interior, the Colts are hoping Addai and others find more running room between the tackles.
If the Colts can add more balance to their offensive attack, Manning will have more opportunities to push the ball down the field off play-action.
Given the fact Manning tossed 33 touchdown passes without a solid ground attack last season, Manning could post significant numbers with an improved running game that warrants some eight-man fronts (with one-on-one coverage) from opponents.
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