Manning should exploit Chiefs' D

Updated: January 9, 2004, 1:29 PM ET
By Football Scouts, Inc. | For ESPN Insider
Editor's note: Football Scouts, Inc., took an early look at the NFL playoff match-ups Tuesday. Here's their updated scouting report:
  • Take 2: Colts safeties must play with discipline

    The Colts have been a bit unpredictable at times, but QB Peyton Manning is coming off a brilliant performance, and the Chiefs' defense is a shambles that seems to only grow worse as the weeks pass.

    RB Edgerrin James figures to carry a greater share of the load this week, but he also will set up Manning and the Colts' passing game for play-action opportunities and help create man-to-man matchups on the perimeter by drawing eight- and perhaps some nine-man fronts.

    Trouble is, Indianapolis likely will have to resort to similar tactics when RB Priest Holmes and the Chiefs' offense take the field. Holmes also gives Kansas City versatility, further enhancing the effectiveness of one of the league's top passing attacks.


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