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Bucky Brooks' Scouting Report: Week 5 at Colts

Who is the Guy?

Jonathan Taylor is league's rushing leader with 414 rush yards on 77 carries with three scores. He is a unique workhorse runner with a rugged running style that enables him to pick up the tough yards between the tackle, but the speed and explosiveness to score from anywhere on the field. As a former rushing champ who is averaging 100-plus yards on the ground, the Raiders must limit Taylor's impact as a runner.

Know His Name

Despite the football world's perception of Daniel Jones, the former first-rounder is playing at an MVP level with the Colts. The veteran has found his rhythm directing Shane Steichen's offense, as evidenced by his 71.9% completion rate, 103.3 passer rating and 8.9 yards per pass attempt average. That's eye-popping production from a former franchise quarterback who was unceremoniously dismissed from original team. Moreover, it reflects the synergy between the playcaller and passer as the duo has transformed the Colts into a playoff contender.

Don't Sleep On…

Tyler Warren might be the front runner for the Offensive Rookie of the Year award after quickly emerging as the Colts' No.1 option in the passing game. The 2025 first-rounder has produced four explosive plays (receptions of at least 20 yards) and leads the team with 147 "YAC" (yards after catch) through four games. Given his versatility and playmaking potential, Warren is a X-factor for the Colts' offense.

Under Pressure

DeForest Buckner is the monster in the middle of the Colts defense. He can wreak havoc at the point of attack with his strength, length and power. Though he has failed to register a sack this season, he has recorded four tackles for loss as the Colts' most disruptive frontline defender.

Matchup to Watch

Zaire Franklin vs Ashton Jeanty

After Jeanty's breakout performance, the Colts will pay closer attention to the rookie runner on early downs. Franklin will likely draw the assignment as the designated playmaker in Lou Anarumo's scheme.

Offensive Scheme

The Colts feature a balanced offensive approach with a downhill running game complementing a dynamic play-action passing game. The Colts have added a dimension to the attack by showcasing Daniel Jones' athleticism on bootlegs, option plays and designed QB runs to keep the defense from focusing exclusively on Jonathan Taylor. With a perimeter loaded with athletic pass catchers and playmakers, the Colts can exploit undisciplined defenders with their misdirections and deceptive concepts.

Defensive Scheme

The Colts are quickly adapting to Lou Anarumo's multifaceted scheme. The creative defensive wizard will mix traditional concepts with a few exotic pressures to keep the quarterback and playcaller guessing in crucial moments. Though the Colts will spend a lot of time in split-safety looks, the team's "Hot" pressure package (six-man pressures with zone coverage) and various man schemes can wreak havoc on foes who are unprepared for the chaos.

View photos of past matchups between the Raiders and the Indianapolis Colts as the Silver and Black prepare for their Week 5 matchup.

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