The Indianapolis Colts are heading into the 2024 NFL season with high hopes, returning nearly their entire 2023 roster. Last season, a failed fourth-down conversion cost them the AFC South title, but this year, there’s a renewed sense of optimism. Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated has named the Colts his “dark horse” team to make a Super Bowl run in 2024.
In a recent Q&A session, Breer was asked about his dark horse picks for the upcoming season, and he pointed to the Colts. “I think I’d go with the Colts,” he said. “They went 9-8 last year, in Year 1 under Shane Steichen and with Gardner Minshew II at quarterback. The staff returns largely intact, and Anthony Richardson is back from injury. And we’ve seen quarterbacks in this sort of spot explode in their second year.”
Breer’s comparison draws parallels to the Cincinnati Bengals’ remarkable journey led by Joe Burrow. Drafted first overall in 2020, Burrow’s rookie season was cut short by a knee injury. However, he made a spectacular comeback in 2021, leading the Bengals to a 10-6 season and eventually to the Super Bowl. While Richardson only played four games in his rookie season compared to Burrow’s ten, the Colts’ solid nine-win performance last year suggests they are in a strong position to make a significant leap.
The idea of the Colts making a deep playoff run isn’t as far-fetched as it might seem. The team has a talented roster and a coaching staff that has shown promise. For Breer’s prediction to come true, staying healthy will be crucial for Richardson, who needs a breakout second season similar to Burrow’s. If he can remain injury-free and perform at a high level, the Colts could surprise many and make a legitimate push for the Super Bowl.
Ultimately, the NFL is a league where unexpected outcomes are the norm. Given the Colts’ current trajectory and the potential for significant improvement from Richardson, Breer’s bold prediction could very well come to fruition. As the season unfolds, fans and analysts alike will be keeping a close eye on Indianapolis, eager to see if this dark horse can indeed defy the odds and make a run for the championship.
