Tip to BBS, Rick Goslin of the Dallas Morning News tells the story of the death of the shutdown corner, and what the Colts have done about it.
Brandon Marshall caught an NFL record 21 passes against the Colts last Sunday for 200 yards — but he averaged less than 10 yards per catch. Thirteen of his catches covered fewer than 10 yards and seven went for five yards or less.
When Marshall caught a pass Sunday, he was tackled. There were no big plays to be had — no turning a seven-yard catch upfield into a 70-yard touchdown. That’s why the Colts were able to withstand Marshall’s onslaught and claim a 28-16 victory over the Broncos.
Indianapolis also limited Pro Bowl wideouts Larry Fitzgerald to 10.9 yards on nine catches and Andre Johnson to 10.3 on 10 catches this season. That’s how the Colts play pass defense — if you catch it, they will tackle you. The play ends at the reception.
“Tackling is important,” Colts general manager Bill Polian said of his defensive backfield, “and we’re pretty good at it.”
Jackson has been on injured reserve since October and Hayden has missed seven games this season with a knee injury. Despite the extended absences of their two starting corners, the Colts are still allowing an average of only 6.3 yards per pass attempt — fifth best in the NFL. Lacey leads all NFL cornerbacks with 69 tackles and Powers also ranks in the Top 10 with 66.
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