3 Keys to the game: How the Colts can beat the Broncos in Week 2

The Indianapolis Colts will face the Denver Broncos at Lucas Oil Stadium in Week 2 as both teams look to improve to 2-0 on the season.

The Colts orchestrated an all-around dominant performance in the season opener against Miami, which included the Daniel Jones-led offense scoring on all seven of their possessions. But awaiting Indianapolis this week is a very stingy Broncos defense.

If the Colts are again going to come away with the win, here are the three keys to doing so.

Get pressure on QB Bo Nix

Accomplishing this may not be an easy task for the Colts’ defensive front, which is potentially without Laiatu Latu, who is currently listed as questionable for this week’s game.

In Week 1, behind the Denver offensive line, Nix was pressured at the fifth-lowest rate among quarterbacks. However, when Tennessee was able to get to Nix, he had the highest turnover-worthy play rate of any quarterback.

Time in the pocket will allow for Nix to operate within the timing and rhythm of the play, and means more time in coverage for the Colts’ secondary. But pressure could create turnover opportunities.

Can the Colts’ offensive line keep Daniel Jones clean?

The Colts’ offensive line play was excellent in Week 1, and when it comes to consistent success for this offense, the play up front is where it all begins.

But accomplishing that high level of play won’t come easy against the Denver defensive front. Last week, the Broncos’ 28 pressures were the most by any team.

Leading the way for Denver is defensive end Nik Bonitto, who ranked 16th in pressures last season among his position group, along with Zach Allen, who was second among defensive tackles in pressures in 2024.

Like most quarterbacks, Jones has struggled when under duress in his career, but his numbers really plummet in those situations.

Can the cornerback depth hold up?

The depth of the Colts’ cornerback position is already going to be tested this season. The team has already ruled out Charvarius Ward and Jaylon Jones for Sunday’s game.

Without Ward, Mekhi Blackmon will presumably get the start. The Colts are bullish on Blackmon, having traded for him, but he didn’t arrive until after training camp, so he’s had to learn Lou Anarumo’s defense on the fly.

Providing depth will be undrafted rookie Johnathan Edwards, who was a healthy scratch in Week 1. I’d also guess that Chris Lammons is elevated from the practice squad.

Helping this unit will be Anarumo’s disguise-heavy scheme, which can leave quarterbacks off balance and guessing.

This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: Colts vs. Broncos: 3 keys to victory for Indianapolis in Week 2

3 Keys to the game: How the Colts can beat the Broncos in Week 2

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