Dec 15, 2024; Denver, Colorado, USA; Indianapolis Colts cornerback Jaylon Jones (40) reacts in the second half against the Denver Broncos at Empower Field at Mile High. Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

NFL Analyst Has Faith in Colts' Defense vs. Titans

Originally posted on Indianapolis Colts on SI
By Sean Ackerman | Last updated Dec 22, 2024 7:00 AM ET

The Indianapolis Colts have had their fair share of concerns through 14 games, including questions surrounding defense. After struggling at the start of the season, Gus Bradley's group has been able to come up with big plays down the stretch.

Despite losing to the Denver Broncos last week, Indy's secondary intercepted rookie quarterback Bo Nix three times. On top of that, the Colts held the Broncos to 193 total yards, Denver's lowest on the season.

In Week 16, the Colts will face backup quarterback Mason Rudolph and the Tennessee Titans. Rudolph is taking over for Will Levis after Levis was benched by head coach Brian Callahan against the Jacksonville Jaguars last weekend.

Titans starting QB Mason Rudolph Sunday at Colts. pic.twitter.com/wtqF1sUdvl
— NFL (@NFL) December 18, 2024

Rudolph saw action earlier this year, throwing five interceptions while fumbling four times. Those numbers are like finding gold for the Colts' turnover-reliant defense. Yahoo Sports analyst Tera Roberts thinks the Colts are primed for a big week.

"Fantasy managers looking for high-upside streaming defenses with the potential to generate turnovers — and maybe even a glorious pick-six — should look to Indianapolis this week," Roberts wrote.

The Colts haven't been superb in fantasy football this season but could turn the tide to close out the season. Indy struggles against opposing running backs, but Tony Pollard is questionable for Sunday's matchup.

If the Colts force the ball into Rudolph's hands, turnovers could be plentiful. Safeties Julian Blackmon and Nick Cross lead the team in interceptions this season, so they may add another on Sunday afternoon.

We've got another INT Nick Cross with an easy pick.#Colts #ForTheShoe #Broncos #BroncosCountry #INDvsDEN pic.twitter.com/sImGDNtKNa
— Chris Shepherd (@NFLscheme) December 15, 2024

Roberts thinks the Colts are a great choice for fantasy teams looking for an emergency defense. If the Titans put up big numbers with a backup at the helm, serious questions will be asked in Indianapolis.

This article first appeared on Indianapolis Colts on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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