With the second fewest blitzes in the league going into Sunday’s game at Paycor Stadium, the Colts defense has an advantage over the Bengals should they choose to test quarterback Jake Browning.
With the second fewest blitzes in the league going into Sunday’s game at Paycor Stadium, the Colts defense has an advantage over the Bengals should they choose to test quarterback Jake Browning.
Entering Sunday’s game at Paycor Stadium, the Colts defense has the upper hand over the Bengals should they decide to test quarterback Jake Browning, as they enter with the second fewest blitzes in the league.
He took advantage of a delayed blitz up the middle by Jaguars linebacker Foyesade Oluokun on third-and-two, which helped Browning complete the longest play of the season—a 76-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase—on the play.
Afterwards, on a third-and-10 play in overtime, Browning whistled an 11-yard pass to wide receiver Tee Higgins after Sample had picked up linebacker Devin Lloyd and running back Trayveon Williams had also picked up the safety.
Basically, Sample said last week, “there were eight up there.” Trayveon closed the distance to the brink. I received the sixth and the line received five. Sometimes it’s a scanning thing, and other times it’s kind of a set thing like that, where I know I’m taking that guy, so I can step up. They were in base, had five downs, and were tampering with the linebacker on You’ll have to go meet him because you’re not exactly sure.”
Along with his two career touchdowns this season, Sample also added an 11-yard reception in the red zone.
Offensive coordinator Brian Callahan commented of Sample’s screen touchdown, “(Sample has learned) to get out and get your eyes around and be where he expects you to be which is exactly what happened on that play against Buffalo.”
It’s always a concern (for the defense) because he’s really improved in that area and has shown effectiveness when caught. Can he get to first down if he gets the ball in space? He has also demonstrated his ability to gain yards after the catch and put us in a favorable position. I have nothing but praise for Drew’s contributions and his performance.
Offensive coordinator Brian Callahan commented of Sample’s screen touchdown, “(Sample has learned) to get out and get your eyes around and be where he expects you to be which is exactly what happened on that play against Buffalo.”
It’s always a concern (for the defense) because he’s really improved in that area and has shown effectiveness when caught. Can he get to first down if he gets the ball in space? He has also demonstrated his ability to gain yards after the catch and put us in a favorable position. I have nothing but praise for Drew’s contributions and his performance.
Grover Stewart, a specialist tackle who specializes in stopping runs, is the key player for the Colts defense as he returns from a six-game suspension. With Stewart in there, the Colts give up a yard less per carry, allowing them to avoid depending on their linebackers to blitz against the run.
ORAs Sunday’s Ruler of the Jungle, Reggie Williams, the all-time leading linebacker for the Bengals and former member of Cincinnati City Council, ruled over Paycor. Before the game, His Honor visited with current No. 57 Germaine Pratt on the sidelines. He was astonished and delighted to see rookie safety Jordan Battle signing autographs, among other players.
Love how the players can mingle with the fans prior to kickoff at Paycor Stadium,” Williams remarked. “It seems impossible to me to sign autographs prior to a game. The logistics weren’t there for Riverfront Stadium. I adore it when fans receive rewards for their devotion.”
Williams, 69, was approached by someone who thanked him for coming out of the closet. Williams once recorded seven tackles in “The Freezer Bowl,” an AFC Championship game. Still, on a 37-degree day, his hands were in his coat pockets.
“I’m always amazed,” Williams stated, “how I played in 59-below and I’m still cold on a day like this.”
