Colts Keep Winning Despite Daniel Jones Struggles

Winning Ugly

The Indianapolis Colts are back at .500 after a 30-13 win over the Washington Commanders in London. After starting the season 0-2, the Colts have won two straight games. Still, the offensive output is raising some serious concerns. Over the last two games, the Colts have a minus four turnover margin and averaged just 4.1 yards per play.

Quarterback Daniel Jones is at the center of these struggles. He turned the ball over twice on Sunday, including a fumble on the second play from scrimmage and an interception in the second quarter. He now has five giveaways in his last two games, which were wins against the Texans and the Commanders.

Finding a Way to Win

Jones finished Sunday's game with 143 passing yards and averaged 4.2 yards per attempt. This was his lowest passing yardage in a full game since joining the team. The quarterback acknowledged his struggles after the game. "Definitely got to play better," Jones said. "Got to clean that up. Can't afford to turn the ball over like that."

Despite the mistakes, Jones did make plays when it mattered. He scored on a four yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter to extend the Colts lead. He also converted two third downs with his legs in the second half.

The team is dealing with some clear setbacks. Jones is only 10 months post surgery on a torn Achilles. The Colts are also playing without their top receiver, Alec Pierce, who is on injured reserve with a heel injury. Interior pass protection has also been a major issue. Still, coach Shane Steichen is happy with the results. "It's better than being 0-4," Steichen said. "I'll tell you that."

What it means for the next game

Indianapolis Colts at Pittsburgh Steelers (NFL, Sun, 11 Oct): Pittsburgh Steelers win 53%, Indianapolis Colts win 47%; projected score Pittsburgh Steelers 23, Indianapolis Colts 21. Our safest pick: Colts +9.5.