The AFC south used to run through the Indianapolis Colts. Anyone who wanted it had to pry it from their hands. Sometimes it was so solidified that the crown already belonged to the Colts with a third of the season left. It was pure domination. Nowadays, that couldn’t be farther from the truth as the Colts haven’t won the division since 2014. It has been a horrific drought, but there are few ways the Colts can get back on top in 2025.
Quarterback Play
Anthony Richardson or Daniel Jones needs to step up in a major way for the Colts to have a chance. Whichever quarterback is given the keys, they need to excel. That means Richardson pulling his completion percentage out of the basement and maximizing his athleticism to reach new heights. If Jones is the man, it means a reclamation project akin to what the Vikings witnessed with Sam Darnold. A new situation for Jones could be enough to shine.
Anarumo’s Defense
New coordinator, who dis? If Lou Anarumo can bring the defensive intensity and deceptiveness that he displayed in his greatest years with the Bengals, the Colts have a chance to be really good on that side of the ball. Deforest Buckner and the line return to strength, while the revamped secondary finds its legs by shutting down receivers and creating turnovers. Punishing quarterbacks and creating short fields for the offense is a recipe for success.
Shane Steichen
Shane Steichen worked absolute magic with Jalen Hurts in Philadelphia. It seemed that pairing him with Richardson could be a perfect match. So far, Steichen has looked more equipped to prepare Gardner Minshew for success than Richardson. If he continues to work on finding Richardson opportunities to use his legs and develops his passing ability while creatively using weapons like Josh Downs and Tyler Warren, the offense could click. Steichen flexing his brilliance could be enough to secure several wins by itself.
The ingredients are there for the Colts to end the drought. Ingredients aren’t enough however. They need to be prepared and assembled with correct timing. All of these things need to come together at once to create the ultimate dish. Both sides of the ball need to improve to be at home to start the postseason. It won’t be easy, but follow this outline, and the Colts will be back on top.