That has been the perceived bane of the Colts’ ground game, too often unreliable in short-yardage situations. Everyone remembers Hart’s failed third-and-1 attempt in the second quarter of the Super Bowl
XLIV loss to New Orleans.
A closer look, though, adds perspective. Since 2006, the Colts have converted 65-of-89 third-and-1 situations with their running game. That’s 73.0 percent. The overall league average during that span was 70.8. The average for playoff teams was 72.1.
Still, there’s no question the Colts must be more efficient in short-yardage situations. Over the past two seasons, their average has dipped to 66 percent, and there’s no overstating the effect Hart’s failed third-and-1 had in the Super Bowl loss.
Add The Sports Daily to your Google News Feed!
