So much of the Colts' success hinges on quarterback Andrew Luck's ability to stay on the field. But even the NFL's best quarterbacks have help from others on the field.
@MikeWellsNFL What guy not named Andrew Luck has to have a great game to have the biggest impact on the game Sunday? #coltsmail
— Chris Blystone (@chrisblystone) September 9, 2016
Mike Wells: Can I say the entire defensive unit? I’ll narrow it down for you by going with linebacker Robert Mathis. The 35-year-old pass-rusher hasn’t played a game since Week 17 last season because the Colts purposely held him out of the preseason since they already know what he brings to the team.
I’m saying Mathis because of the issues the Colts have at cornerback. Their four healthy cornerbacks are Patrick Robinson, Antonio Cromartie, Rashaan Melvin and Darryl Morris. I need to tell you Cromartie, Melvin and Morris all signed with the Colts Aug. 22 or later.
"I’ve never experienced anything like this, but it happens," Cromartie said. "Thing I’ve been told since I got here is it’s always about the next man up and who can come in and try to help out as much as possible.
"I think the guys that are coming in, including myself, need to take advantage of the opportunity that we have to show that we can play at this level and still can go out and play at a very high level. I think that’s really what it’s all about.”
That’s why Mathis -- and the other pass-rushers -- need to keep pressure on Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford because you can expect Detroit to put the ball in the air after being fourth in the NFL in pass attempts last season.
“We are all pros so you have to work at your craft and get to the quarterback,” Mathis said. “That, next to getting interceptions, is one of the hardest things (to do) in football defensive-wise.”
