Xavien Howard’s Challenging Return
With Charvarius Ward sidelined, the Indianapolis Colts turned to Xavien Howard, hoping the veteran cornerback could fill the void. At 32 years old and a former league leader in interceptions, Howard possesses the experience needed to rise to the occasion. However, this matchup against the Denver Broncos marked just his second game in over two seasons, and his struggles were evident in the Colts’ thrilling 29-28 victory.
A Tough Day in Coverage
Howard faced a challenging day in coverage, allowing all five passes thrown his way to be completed. This included two critical touchdowns that contributed to the Broncos taking control of the game. The situation worsened when he accrued three penalties within a single drive—a span of just five plays—that enabled Denver to seize a 21-13 lead. Despite the adversity, Howard remained aware of the scrutiny he faced due to his limited playing time.
“They attacked me with a lot of quick stuff, quick slants and stuff,” he said, reflecting on the game. “I knew a team was going to attack me early on in the season. I’ve been off a little minute, so I knew guys want to see if I still can play and stuff like that.”
Taking Accountability
In a display of maturity, Howard did not shy away from taking responsibility for his performance. “I gotta do my job,” he said firmly, emphasizing his commitment to improvement. His mindset reflects a crucial trait for a cornerback: the ability to maintain a short-term memory. “Plays are going to happen. Just got to move on and keep going,” he added.
This level of accountability from Howard is a refreshing change for the Colts, as it has not always been a hallmark of the team in recent years. It’s a testament to the progress the franchise has made, contributing to their best start to a season in 16 years.
Looking Ahead
As the Colts prepare to face the Tennessee Titans, they will hope for Ward’s return to the lineup. If he is available, it could bolster their defense significantly, allowing Howard the chance to regain his footing and help propel Indianapolis to a 3-0 record this Sunday. The potential for improvement looms large as the season unfolds, and Howard’s willingness to learn from this experience could play a pivotal role in the Colts’ continued success.
