Game Preview
Mike Krueger
Predicted Score: Colts 34, Chiefs 17
Indianapolis: The Colts have dropped two straight games but thankfully have the Chiefs on the schedule to right the ship. The injury bug has hit this team hard with Marvin Harrison (knee), Dallas Clark (concussion), and now Dwight Freeney out for the rest of the season with a foot injury. Losing Freeney is a big blow but if any team can recover it's the Colts. Despite losing Freeney last week and Manning throwing 6 interceptions they still have a great opportunity to beat the Chargers in the slop but Adam Vinatieri missed a game-winning 29-yd field goal. No last-minute field goals will be needed this week as Indianapolis still has Reggie Wayne, Joseph Addai, and a dominating defense, which will be enough to handle the Chiefs.
- Start: QB Peyton Manning, RB Joseph Addai, WR Reggie Wayne, K Adam Vinatieri
- Consider: TE Dallas Clark
- Sit: WR Marvin Harrison, WR Anthony Gonzalez
Kansas City: The Chiefs are sinking after losing two straight games at home and now face a monstrous task heading on the road to face a Colts team looking to take out their frustrations after dropping two games of their own. With reality setting in, the Chiefs are turning to Brodie Croyle at quarterback to find out "if he can play" and to find out if the offense can score some points. The Chiefs rank 30th in points per game (15.0) and 30th in rushing 78.1 yards per game. Priest Holmes will once again get the start at running back as Larry Johnson has been ruled out. Eddie Kennison (hamstring) is back in the starting lineup opposite Dwayne Bowe and will need to take the pressure off Tony Gonzalez who was doubled at tripled team last week versus Denver. There's a chance for some garbage yards hear for Croyle and the receivers but a win is out of the question. BTW, Don't expect Larry Johnson to play again this season.
- Start: TE Tony Gonzalez
- Consider: RB Priest Holmes, WR Dwayne Bowe
- Sit: QB Brodie Croyle, RB Larry Johnson, QB Damon Huard, WR Samie Parker, WR Eddie Kennison, K Dave Rayner