The Indianapolis Colts (7-5) are preparing for their Week 14 matchup with the Cincinnati Bengals (6-6).
Last week was a big win for my predictions as both my offensive and defensive predictions for Week 13 came true, and this week, I'm adding a special teams prediction as well.
Special Teams Prediction:
The Colts will block a Punt or FG again this week
Last week, the Colts special teams group forced two special team turnovers that aided their Week 13 win over the Tennesee Titans. And some may say that is just luck, but I'd tell those people they are underestimating the brilliance of Colt special teams coordinator Brian Mason. I believe Week 13 was just the beginning of Mason's unit, leaning into his past as a punt/field goal block specialist. I think that we will see them get yet another block this week, whether that comes on a punt or a field goal.
Defensive Prediction:
The Colts force at least two turnovers
It was impressive how efficient and effective Bengals QB Jake Browning was in Week 12 against the Jacksonville Jaguars. He completed 32 of his 37 pass attempts, had two total touchdowns, and had no turnovers. The Colts pass rush is playing their best football of the season, with 21 sacks over their past four games. I think they will get after Browning and force him into multiple mistakes, leading to at least two turnovers on the day from the Bengals offense.
Offensive Prediction:
Zach Moss rushes for 75+ yards and a touchdown
A big reason for the Bengals win last week was being able to hold their star RB Travis Etienne to 45 rushing yards. Their run defense rebounded nicely from a week prior, where they let Najee Harris rush for 99 yards in their loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers. I think the Colts need to take this blueprint; if they can get the run game going, it can go a long way to bringing home their eighth win of the season. I believe they will do this, and it'll end with RB Zack Moss rushing for over 75 yards and finding the endzone at least once.
Score Predictions:
Colts 24 Bengals 20
The Bengals are coming off a big win against the Jaguars and saw backup Jake Browning have a stellar game. I think the Colts' pass rush will have to take over this game, make Browning uncomfortable, and force him to make mistakes. If the Colts allow Browning time to pick them apart and use his star wideouts at ease, it will be a long day for the Colts defense. I think in the end, the Colts win a close one but improve to 8-5.
More must-reads: