OFFENSIVE LINE
Looking back: After being frustrated and furious after allowing three sacks in six plays in the preseason opener, the first-team line has improved dramatically the past two weeks. They allowed just one sack and allowed Manning time to throw for 167 yards and two touchdowns against Philadelphia and against Detroit, Manning was sacked just once and threw for another touchdown. LT Charlie Johnson has started the last two games after moving into the lineup in the offseason and although neither he nor Tony Ugoh — the starter in 2007 and 2008 — has overwhelmingly distinguished himself during the preseason, Johnson remains the starter. The first-team line performed well against the Lions despite the absence of OG Ryan Lilja, out with a shoulder injury. Lilja’s injury isn’t expected to be serious or long-term. Looking ahead: As is the case with the Colts’ skill players, the first-team line likely won’t play much against the Bengals, although historically the starting line has played a bit more in the final preseason game than other positions because of numbers. The game could decide several backup positions, with players such as OG Kyle DeVan, OT Dan Federkeil, OG/C Steve Justice and rookie OG Jaimie Thomas all likely to play extensively.
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