Cowboys at Colts: What you need to know about Indianapolis

Coming off an emotional win, the Dallas Cowboys are looking to beat the Colts for a sixth straight win. Here is what you need to know about Indianapolis.

It’s hard not to think about these two words when you bring up the Dallas Cowboys. Maybe you’ve thought of it too. I know I have. After ripping off an emotional win against a division rival, the defending Super Bowl champs, it’s hard not to map out the team’s trajectory.

So, here we go, I’m going to say the two magical words: Super Bowl. Boom. Said it. It’s out in the open for all us to marinate and simmer in. Super Bowl.

Now, it might be too early to talk about things like the playoffs and the NFC Championship game, but it isn’t out of the realm for this team. Especially after finding new life with the addition of Amari Cooper. Especially how the Dallas Cowboys fought out of a 3-5 deficit, earning their way up to a 8-5 record with a stellar defense.

The Cowboys haven’t punched their playoff ticket just yet, but after stomping the Eagles out of the playoffs picture, Big D is securing up the division. Next up is the Indianapolis Colts, who at 7-6, are chasing their playoffs dreams as well.

The match is a tricky one, so let’s break it down. Can the Cowboys rip out a sixth consecutive win? Stick around to see my prediction at the end!

A) The Colts have a top-ten offense.

Quarterback Andrew Luck and company are averaging 382.4 yards per game. They are second in the league in third down percentage, converting 47 percent. That’s a big number and one that the Dallas defense must keep in mind. It’ll be interesting to see what the Cowboys can muster up against Luck in key moments.

B) Andrew Luck is having a career year, but nobody is noticing.

Let’s be honest, quarterbacks Drew Brees and Tom Brady are hogging the spotlight. Rightfully so. But let’s not discount Luck, who is coming back after missing the 2017 season.

The quarterback is having one of the best years of his career. His 7-6 record doesn’t say it, but his numbers are there. Luck has a 99.2 quarterback rating, a career high and a 68.5 QBR, another career high.

He has 3759 passing yards, 34 touchdowns to 13 interceptions. He has only been sacked 16 times through 13 games.

C) The T.Y. Hilton puzzle.

Receiver Hilton should be an interesting match for the Cowboys’ cornerbacks. T.Y. Hilton is averaging 15.9 yards a catch, with 16 catches going 20 yards or more. He’s a playmaker and the Cowboys have to be ready. He’s Luck’s favorite target, earning 98 targets and he leads the team with 62 receptions.

D) No Hilton, then it’s on to Eric Ebron.

Don’t overlook tight end Ebron. The 2014 first round pick has 12 touchdowns, 58 catches and averages 11.3 yards a game. He is Luck’s second favorite target and someone who could give the linebackers some trouble with his ability.

After spending his first four seasons with the Detroit Lions, the 25-year-old has found a new home with the Colts. He helped the Colts beat the Texans last week, 24-21, with four receptions and one score.

E) Colts in the picture.

With the Colts standing at 7-6, they are in the thick of things for the sixth and final spot for the playoffs. Four teams own a 7-6 record, including the Ravens, Dolphins, and Titans. The Broncos are just behind those crews with a 6-7 standing.

You have to expect the Colts to come out swinging. Clearly, the Cowboys are in better standing than the Colts, who are fighting from the outside and trying to work their way in. So, what’s my prediction? Again, I’m 0-5 in my last five predictions. Why stop now?

Prediction: Colts 24, Cowboys 20.