Stepping up

Tip to Kuharsky, these assistants might take the leap

Clyde Christensen, offensive coordinator, Indianapolis: This is the first season that Peyton Manning hasn’t played with Tom Moore as his offensive coordinator, and there is no way of overstating the obvious: It is a very, very big deal. Moore and Manning were in sync on everything, and the results were the proof. Manning annually was among the league leaders in touchdown passes and passing percentage, while the Colts annually were at or near the top of the AFC. Now Moore steps aside, acting as an offensive consultant, while Christensen takes over as head of the offense, and keep your fingers crossed, Colts fans. The last time Christensen ran an offense was 2001 in Tampa Bay, and the results weren’t good: The Bucs ranked 26th in yards, 28th in touchdown passes and 31st in rushing. Of course, they didn’t have Manning, Dallas Clark or Reggie Wayne, either. But this will be a challenge, and if Manning isn’t comfortable with his new partner it could mean a shakeup in the AFC South. All I know is that Tom Moore is a tough act to follow. Granted, it’s always good to have a security blanket like Manning, but Manning doesn’t go down this road alone. He must have a coach he can trust. Having Moore as a consultant is a bonus, but where does his authority stop and Christensen’s begin? Stay tuned.