The Colts defense took a massive step forward this season with the addition of All-Pro defensive tackle DeForest Buckner, and also thanks to the surprise performances of players like Xavier Rhodes, T.J. Carrie, and Julian Blackmon. Led by star defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus, the defense ranked 8th in yards allowed, 6th in takeaways, 2nd in rushing yards allowed, and 8th in percentage of opposing drives resulting in a score. However, there was a very important part of a successful defense where the Colts were below-average in 2020: pass rushing.
Just looking at the raw numbers, the Colts’ pass-rushing department seems like more than okay, as Justin Houston set a single-season record in safeties, Autry and him surpassed 7 sacks each, and the presence of Buckner made the Colts a team to fear, but the truth is far from that.