Brock Purdy set for pivotal test against Colts’ depleted pass defense
Brock Purdy enters this week’s matchup against the Indianapolis Colts with momentum following a strong performance against the Tennessee Titans. With the stakes high and the Titans’ pass defense considered vulnerable, Purdy stepped up, leading the San Francisco 49ers to a near 40-point outing. This week, the challenge shifts as he faces a Colts defense that, while not as beleaguered as the Titans’, is still significantly impacted by injuries.
Colts’ Injury Struggles
The Indianapolis Colts have been hit hard by injuries, particularly in their defensive lineup. Key players such as DeForest Buckner, who suffered an injury in Week 9, and Charvarius Ward, who is sidelined with a concussion, will not be available for this matchup. Additionally, newly acquired Sauce Gardner has also fallen victim to injury, leaving fans to wonder about the future of their pass defense.
With Buckner, Ward, and Gardner expected to miss the game, the Colts will rely on Ade Adebawore, Mekhi Blackmon, and Jaylon Jones. While these players show promise, they lack the experience and impact of the starters they are replacing. This presents a significant opportunity for Purdy and the 49ers’ passing game to exploit a defense that is already struggling.
Assessing the Colts’ Defense
Since Week 9, the Colts’ defense has ranked 14th overall. While this may not seem disastrous, it is bolstered by a solid run defense, sitting 4th in success rate and 12th in expected points allowed per rush. Their ability to stop the run remains intact, primarily due to the presence of their remaining star players, which has limited opponents’ incentives to run against them.
However, the pass defense tells a different story. Without Buckner, the Colts have fallen to 19th in both success rate and expected points allowed against the pass. This vulnerability presents Purdy with a favorable matchup as he continues to find his stride.
Purdy’s Growth and Upcoming Challenges
Purdy’s recent performances suggest he is on an upward trajectory. After a few weeks to shake off the rust, he emerged from the bye week ready to face a weak defense and took full advantage. Now, he prepares to confront a Colts team that has exhibited deficiencies in pass protection, setting the stage for another potential breakout performance.
Following the Colts, Purdy will face the Chicago Bears, who present their own challenges, and the elite Seattle Seahawks pass defense. The hope is that he can build on his current form and perform consistently across these varying levels of competition.
As Purdy looks to solidify his role as a reliable quarterback, the question remains: will he shine against the Colts and dispel any lingering doubts before heading into the critical meeting with the Bears?
