Colts need Mr. October performance from Wayne

Oct/27/08 07:43 AM Filed in: Reggie Wayne
ReggieWayne
Monday night's match-up between the Indianapolis Colts and Tennessee Titans is more than just an intense division rival. It's a must win game for Indy in order to keep pace within the AFC South division and their playoff picture in clear sight.

The Colts come into the game looking to rebound from the shellacking they took in Week 7 against Green Bay, losing to the Packers 34-14. Quarterback Peyton Manning had perhaps one of the worst games of his illustrious career with two interceptions that were returned for touchdowns. Along with Manning struggling, the guy who seems to fuel the offense was a non-factor. That being wide receiver Reggie Wayne.

Wayne had two receptions for 24-yards in a losing effort and there needs to be a drastic change Monday night if the Colts are to have any chance of defeating the undefeated Titans.

Wayne is an integral part of the team's offense and must get more involved in the team's passing game early and often. This will be no easy task considering the Titans defense is ranked third overall.

That being said, the ranking could be a little misleading due to the fact that the Titans have yet to face a team with a balanced offense attack such as the Colts, especially when the team is on. Knowing that, you can expect the Colts offense to utilize Wayne's versatility to exploit the situation.

"He [Wayne] has the speed and the quickness to play in the slot and go across the middle," Manning said. "He's strong and physical and has zero fear as a receiver. Of course, he has the speed to get by guys on the outside and can get off versus bump-and-run coverage. It's just a credit to him being able to play both inside and outside."

The Colts like to rotate Wayne and Anthony Gonzalez, not to create match up problems in coverage, but to find ways to get the ball in the hands of their playmaking receiver Wayne.

"We just try to put him in good spots to try to get him the ball. That's the main reason, the quarterback said."

According to Manning, Gonzalez has been outside and Wayne inside pretty much the majority of the season.

Wayne is having a solid season thus far with 35 receptions for 492 yards and four touchdowns, but will need to have a Mr. October performance Monday night. Wayne has been held without a touchdown in the team's last three meetings. His effectiveness could determine the Colts outcome.

(middletownjournal.com)