RESOLVING THE LEDGER
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The Indianapolis Colts dropped their Week 2 preseason matchup with the Atlanta Falcons. However, this time of the year, individual performances often take priority, with playing time, roles, and roster spots up for grabs.
With the clock having just hit zero, let's dive into our instant takeaways from the Colts ' performance.
- Riley Leonard got the start this week and, overall, it was an underwhelming performance. Other than a 39-yard completion to a wide-open Coleman Owen, few positive plays were generated through the air.
- Anthony Richardson didn't fare any better in the passing game, but his ability to extend plays when under pressure did help keep drives alive. His presence under center adds a different element to the Colts' offense for defenses to contend with.
- As the Colts search for their backup center, of note, it was Jimmy Morrissey who got the start this week, and not Dalton Tucker. Tucker has had snap issues this summer.
- Will Mallory was among those who did not play. Not that there was a huge question at this point, but he will be on the final roster.
- A few nice run defense reps from defensive tackle Colby Wooden.
- The Colts rotated heavily at linebacker, with Jaylon Carlies and Austin Ajiake paired together, while CJ Allen and Bryce Boettcher made up the other duo. The two groupings rotated series.
- Another lineup note: Rob Carter started at cornerback over Johnathan Edwards, who did start last week. Both Carter and Edwards would struggle in this game. Can Edwards' ability on special teams be enough to help him secure a roster spot?
- Mekhi Blackmon was again penalized twice. That's four penalties in two games. The Colts cornerback depth -- outside of Taylor-Britt -- has been shaky this preseason.
- AJ Haulcy did not suit up, all but cementing his spot as a Week 1 starter.
- Seth McGowan continues to perform well. He had steady production on the ground and held up well against the blitz twice.
- We saw some flash plays from rookie WR Deion Burks.
- The offensive line depth really struggled.
- Without watching the film, it's difficult to know what the quarterbacks were seeing, but on several pass attempts, the Falcons' DBs seemed to be all over the Colts' wideouts, suggesting that group wasn't creating much separation.
- What do we make of the Colts' kicking competition? Blake Grupe has dominated in the practice setting, but Spencer Shrader has clearly been better in games.
- Cam Taylor-Britt looks comfortable out there in the slot. Fellow free agent signee Jerry Tillery has had his ups and downs.
- The Colts' pass rush again struggled to get after the quarterback.
This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: Instant analysis of Colts' performance vs. Falcons in preseason game
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