Indianapolis Colts Odds - The models of consistency
The Colts’ year-to-year sports betting odds go something like this: see sun rise, see Peyton Manning throw 25-plus touchdown passes, see Indianapolis win 10 or more games. This year, NFL betting fans should expect much of the same, though some key factors could swig Indy’s momentum: head coach Tony Dungy’s retirement, and the drafting of running back Donald Brown in the first round.
Indianapolis Colts odds: +1200 to win Super Bowl XLIV
- Passing weapons still intact
- Running game must bounce back after atrocious 2008 season
- Defense was underrated last year
When NFL betting fans assess Colts lines at the sportsbook, the first thing they think about is Indy’s consistently outstanding pass attack. Nothing significant should change about the passing game this season; Peyton Manning is still in his prime, as is Reggie Wayne, and Dallas Clark remains one of the most underrated and athletic pass-catching tight ends in the game. Anthony Gonzalez must step up his play in his junior year; maybe he’ll relax with Marvin Harrison no longer breathing down his neck.
Indy’s passing game was solid in 2009 NFL betting but it did settle below its usual lofty standard, ranking outside the top four in yards and touchdowns. The main reason why: The Colts’ running game was anemic in 2008, ranking second last in the NFL in yards per game and allowing defenses to key on the pass more. Joseph Addai’s toughness was questioned all year as he exited game after game after big hits that didn’t seem to seriously hurt him. Maybe that’s why the Colts drafted rookie back Donald Brown, who is similar both his build and his main skills (pass-catching ability, blocking).
On the other side of the ball, Indy’s run defense continues to be a headache, though it wasn’t as bad as most online betting players would’ve expected last season, ranking 15th in yards allowed. The Colts hope second-round draft pick Fili Moala, a big defensive tackle, can remedy that problem. Bob Sanders is still the leader of the defense and seriously boosts the Colts odds of stopping the run when he’s healthy. His energy is contagious and it spills over into the speedy Colts secondary, which focuses on forcing turnovers. The Colts are good enough against the pass to prevent teams from posting big point totals – a big reason why they allowed the seventh-fewest points per game in NFL betting last season.
It’s possible that the Colts’ rushing offense could flop again and cause them to take a step back as a team, but don’t bet on that at the sportsbook. Indy remains an elite team. It’s highly unlikely that opposing defenses will keep its offense down two straight years. Even with Tony Dungy leaving, converted assistant coach Jim Caldwell isn’t likely to tinker too much with a system that ain’t really broke. Expect the Colts to contend for the Super Bowl XLVI odds this season.
For more Colts odds and online betting tips, visit the Betting Edge at BetOnline.com.
Stan Simmons first tasted football through the college game, but his football handicapping has strictly focused on the professional sport. Not many people devote as much time to the NFL as Simmons. For six days a week he works, labors and handicaps the sport, and on the seventh he rests as the games play out. Thoughts or questions? Email Comments@BetOnline.com.
