Week 3 Game Changers: Indianapolis Colts

The opposing receiver guarded by Thomas II was not targeted on any of his 35 pass coverage snaps. During these snaps his front-four teammates were able to disrupt Mahomes with some pressure. But that does not take away from his solid coverage of formidable pass catchers.

Tight end Travis Kelce did not score on the two-point conversion try, I don’t care what the score says. It didn’t matter in the end and Thomas II made the play. This somehow debatable play highlighted the potential of Thomas II.

He recognized the quarterbacks go-to target in the middle of a live action scramble drill. This isn’t something a 7th-rounder can usually do. And like I said he made the play to end the conversion try. Thomas II has a high football IQ and athleticisms to take advantage of what he sees. The Colts should be excited about what he put on tape.

CB/KR Isaiah Rodgers Sr.

Finally Rodgers Sr. got some defensive snaps. Bradley contributed it to a scheme fit, and fit the scheme Rodgers Sr. did.

Pro Football Focus gave Rodgers Sr. a rating of 76.4 for his overall defensive performance on the 25 snaps he played. On his 19 snaps in coverage he allowed one reception on one target for six yards. That does not hurt the defense.

The other 18 plays Mahomes was not looking his way or did not want to throw into his coverage. One such play was broken down on Twitter by Destin Adams writer and podcaster for Stampede Blue.

Rodgers Sr. remains dangerous on the special teams, specifically as a kick returner. On Sunday Rodgers Sr. returned two kicks with an average return at 28.5 yards. He looked ready to take it back for six on his longest run of the day (37 yards). With his explosive quickness, and special teams guru Bubba Ventrone there could be more magic coming in Week 4.

With the Injury to Julian Blackmon and the emergence of Rodgers Sr. Gus Bradley has a lot on his plate when it comes to personnel decisions. But it is simple enough to see that Rodgers Sr. and Thomas II can contribute a lot to this team and be game changers for the foreseeable future.