It is unclear how much Indianapolis coach Jim Caldwell will play his starters today, as the 14-0 Colts host the 7-7 Jets. This is a must-win game for New York, and how much Peyton Manning, Reggie Wayne, and Dallas Clark play will go a long way in determining the Jets’ chances. Put it this way: The Colts are in another league. If Peyton & Co. play the entire game, or even for the majority of the game, New York has no shot.
So let’s assume they don’t go the whole way, but that they play deep enough into this game to give the Colts a shot at an undefeated season. It will be enough for another Indy victory, and enough to end the Jets’ chances of making the playoffs.
The Colts have won 23 straight regular-season games, only part of the reason they are favored by 5.5 points in this one. Manning is the big reason. He is once again the front-runner for league MVP. The Colts would not even be a .500 team without him, never mind 14-0.
Today, Manning will face the Jets’ top-ranked defense, and that means Darrelle Revis will be lining up on the other side. The Jets need to convert field goals, not turn the ball over, and establish the run. Notice how I just assume Revis will do his part.
Prediction: Colts 24, Jets 14.
