What the Indianapolis Colts Are Saying Ahead of Their Week 12 Matchup Against the Detroit Lions
As the Colts prepare to host the Lions at Lucas Oil Stadium, here’s what they are discussing:
1. “They are a tough team,” Colts defensive coordinator Gus Bradley said about Detroit’s top-ranked scoring offense (33.6 ppg). “They’ve hit 50 points twice and over 40 points a few times. They can get hot and put up points quickly, which is a big challenge.”
Bradley noted Detroit’s efficiency in both the run and pass game, emphasizing that defenses can’t key in on one aspect. He praised their offensive line as one of the best he’s seen.
“If they don’t score every series, they’re upset,” Bradley said. “They’re explosive, and it’s a great challenge for us.”
Coaching Staff:
Head Coach: Shane Steichen
Offensive Coordinator: Jim Bob Cooter
Defensive Coordinator: Gus Bradley
Special Teams Coordinator: Brian Mason
2. Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson delivered his best performance last week against the Jets, completing 20-of-30 passes for 272 yards, one touchdown, no interceptions, and a 106.5 passer rating. He also added two rushing touchdowns.
Veteran receiver Michael Pittman Jr. stressed the importance of Richardson building on this momentum.
“I think he’s off to a great start,” Pittman said. “It has to start somewhere, and he showed how much work he’s put in. I know he’s motivated to keep improving.”
3. Head coach Shane Steichen said Richardson’s poise and delivery from the pocket last week were the most confident he’s looked.
“That builds confidence in him and the whole team moving forward,” Steichen said.
4. Pittman, who was college teammates with Lions receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown at USC, joked about keeping trash talk minimal.
“I know him, and if you get him mad, that’s when he’s at his best,” Pittman said, laughing. “Maybe I’ll wait until after the game.”
5. Offensive coordinator Jim Bob Cooter said the Colts are working to improve their rushing efficiency. They rank 16th in rushing (118.5 ypg) but managed just 91 yards on 35 carries (2.6 avg.) against the Jets. Cooter emphasized the importance of a consistent ground game for offensive explosiveness.
6. Bradley likened Detroit’s offense to past Kansas City teams with Tyreek Hill but highlighted a key difference.
“Detroit’s run game is elite,” Bradley said. “They’ve got two backs running at a very high level—some think they’re the league’s best duo.”
He noted that Detroit’s combination of a strong run game and play-action ability makes them especially dangerous.
7. Cooter praised Lions safety Kerby Joseph’s instincts.
“He finds the ball and the ball finds him,” Cooter said. “They position him well within their coverages, and he capital
