Photos of the Colts' projected starters as listed on the team's depth chart.
1. Put points on the board.
If the Colts have one glaring weakness on the stat sheet, it's their ability to defend against the pass. Indianapolis has surrendered an average of 278.9 passing yards per game, the fourth-most in the NFL. In terms of total yards, the Colts have the league's sixth-worst defense, giving up an average of 392.2 yards per game. It is imperative for the Buccaneers to exploit the struggling unit and score touchdowns instead of settling for field goals.
2. Protect Jameis.
Protecting the quarterback is a goal each and every week - that goes without saying. It is especially important, though, when facing a team that's struggled in that area. Through the first 11 weeks of the season, the Colts have just 13 sacks, the third-fewest in the league. The Buccaneers, comparatively, have excelled at protecting the quarterback. The team has allowed 17 sacks this year, tied for the seventh-fewest in the league. When a mismatch is presented, the Bucs must capitalize. They have an opportunity for a mismatch here.
*3. Continue to make good decisions. *
Though the Colts struggle against the pass and give up a significant number of yards, the team is one of the best in the league in forcing turnovers. So far this season, the Colts have recorded 13 interceptions, the fifth-most in the league. After throwing a handful of interceptions early this season, Jameis Winston has gone without throwing a pick in five of his last six games. If the Buccaneers get out to an early lead and keep Winston off the turf, accomplishing another turnover-free game will be more easily accomplished.
