Rodgers matchup another challenge for Indy defense

The Indianapolis Colts embrace these daunting midseason tests.

First, they tried to contain reigning MVP Lamar Jackson. Then they contended with 2019 rushing champion Derrick Henry. On Sunday, the Colts face a third consecutive challenge — slowing down two-time MVP Aaron Rodgers and the Packers’ potent offense.

Ace this one, and Indy will be well on its way to claiming the title of NFL’s stingiest defense.

“You can tell everybody’s on the same page and they fly around. It’s one of the faster units we’ll have played this year,” Green Bay coach Matt LaFleur said. “They’re physical, they know how to attack the ball. And it’s hard to get big plays on them. So we’re going to have to do a great job.”

At the moment, the Colts (6-3) sit at the top of the class.

They’re No. 1 in overall defense, No. 2 against the pass, No. 3 against the run, No. 4 in scoring defense and No. 6 in turnover differential. They’re tied for second in interceptions with 11, have scored three touchdowns and had two safeties. And for the first time in years, it’s the defense that has helped Indy grab a share of the AFC South lead.

But Colts coach Frank Reich, a longtime NFL quarterback, knows just how difficult Rodgers can be on opposing defenses.

“He can make every throw from every arm angle and he gets it out faster than anybody I’ve ever seen,” Reich said. “He can give that little flick of the wrist to get that thing out. His feet don’t have to be right, because of his arm strength he can put the ball anywhere he wants. Then he can extend plays.”

ELSEWHERE

●Browns: NFL sacks leader Myles Garrett

remained isolated from his teammates for the second straight day, but the Browns expect him to return Friday and play this weekend against Philadelphia. Garrett, who has 9 1⁄ sacks, has

2

stayed at home the past two days after not feeling well. As long as his next COVID-19 test comes back negative, the standout defensive end will be allowed back at the team’s facility and to practice.

●Jaguars: Jacksonville placed rookie cornerback CJ Henderson on injured reserve with a groin injury, creating a huge hole in their secondary days before hosting unbeaten Pittsburgh.