Interesting match up tonight, with the surprising Colts playing a Jags team that is really struggling to do much of anything these days. Without MJD, they haven’t been able to generate much offensively and it seems that their defense thinks they’re playing flag football at times. Let’s take a quick look at some of the at risk guys and get an idea of who you can or can’t rely on this week.
Although Blaine Gabbert is still dealing with that torn labrum in his left shoulder, it hasn’t done much to slow him down as he’s been pretty solid since the injury. He looks like he’s a go tonight, don’t worry about any setbacks from this week, as he practiced fully both Tuesday and Wednesday.
On the other hand, Donald Brown has managed to go backwards a bit this week. He developed swelling in his post-surgical knee and managed to acquire a hip issue as well on that same side, so looks like he’s going to be a game time decision tonight. I’d expect him to either sit this week or be significantly limited if he plays. Vick Ballard is your guy if you’re owning anyone in that Colts’ backfield.
Donnie Avery suffered a hip injury during Sunday’s game, which has caused him to be limited all week this week. He did practice yesterday, so he looks like he will suit up tonight. No word on the exact injury, but the fact that he practiced at all yesterday means it can’t be too serious
One thing to watch for tonight is the availability of Robert Mathis and Dwight Freeney. I would expect this Colts D to man-handle the struggling Jags’ offense, but on the road and possibly missing Mathis (Freeney seems much more likely to play) could be a huge advantage for the Jags’ passing game. Just something to make a note of if you’re thinking about using the Colts D/ST this week in what appears to be a very good match up on paper.
Ziad Dahdul 