The Indianapolis Colts have emerged as one of the NFL’s biggest surprises in 2025, sitting atop the AFC with a 6-1 record after a dominant Week 7 victory over the Los Angeles Chargers.
Just a year ago, the organization faced significant uncertainty with both general manager Chris Ballard and head coach Shane Steichen under pressure following consecutive seasons without playoff appearances.
Now, the Colts are operating with offense and defense in near-perfect sync, transforming doubts into legitimacy.
Their 38-24 win at SoFi Stadium on Sunday reinforced their status as a legitimate contender in the conference.
Analyst Colin Cowherd recently offered his honest perspective on the team’s turnaround.
“A year ago everyone wanted the Colts to fire the GM and weren’t sure about the head coach either. It was so obvious the solution to all of these issues was Daniel Jones. I mean, duh,” Cowherd wrote on X.
A year ago everyone wanted the Colts to fire the GM and weren’t sure about the head coach either. It was so obvious the solution to all of these issues was Daniel Jones. I mean, duh.
— Colin Cowherd (@colincowherd) October 19, 2025
Jones has delivered exactly what Indianapolis needed through seven weeks this season.
Against the Chargers, Jones completed 22 of 33 attempts for 275 yards and two scores, distributing the ball efficiently and moving the chains consistently throughout the afternoon.
The quarterback’s renewed connection with Steichen has provided Indianapolis with a clear offensive identity.
Under Steichen’s system, the Colts rank among the top 10 in both rushing and passing yards, creating one of the league’s most balanced attacks.
His work has transformed perceptions, elevating him from a coach facing scrutiny into a legitimate candidate for NFL Coach of the Year honors heading into the season’s second half.
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