NFL Panic Meter: Colts' Playoff Hopes in Jeopardy after 7-1 Start

The Indianapolis Colts began the season at 7-1, a record that usually guarantees a playoff berth. While they still have a solid chance to make the postseason, nothing is certain anymore. The team has lost three of their last four games, now tied with the Jacksonville Jaguars for first place in the AFC South. The Houston Texans are also closing in, just one game behind.

In the AFC wild-card race, there are three teams at 8-4, one at 7-5, and two at 6-6, including the Chiefs. This shows how quickly fortunes can change from having the NFL's best midseason record to potentially missing the playoffs.

The main concern isnt just the losses but how the Colts have performed recently. The offense has cooled off after an explosive start. During the first eight games, the team averaged 385.3 yards per game, but in the last three losses, that number dropped to 301.3. Scoring has also dipped from 33.8 points per game to 18.7 in the recent defeats.

Despite a Week 10 win over the Atlanta Falcons with 519 yards and 31 points, the victory came in overtime against a 4-8 team, highlighting offensive inconsistencies. Quarterback Daniel Jones, previously praised for the team's hot streak, has faced criticism during the slump. He has been reportedly playing with a fractured fibula, impacting his performance.

Running back Jonathan Taylor, once an MVP contender, has totaled only 188 rushing yards in the last three losses. Overall, the offense lacks the early-season sharpness, risking further defeats if improvement doesnt come.

Defensive injuries add to the struggles. DeForest Buckners absence has affected the defensive line, and cornerback Sauce Gardner missed a game due to a calf injury. The Colts still have the opportunity to rebound, claim the division, and erase memories of this midseason dip. Alternatively, the Jaguars or Texans could overtake them, potentially prompting major changes in Indianapolis.

Panic Meter: Colts

The Colts 7-1 start wasnt accidental. While they remain a strong team, theres reason for concern now.

Meanwhile, other teams show similar midseason volatility. The 2025 Baltimore Ravens, for instance, recovered from a 1-5 start with a four-game winning streak but then fell back after a decisive loss to the Bengals, now sitting at 6-6. Lamar Jackson is still struggling after a hamstring injury, and Super Bowl aspirations appear distant.

Panic Meter: Ravens

The Ravens season is unlikely to end as hoped, with challenges remaining despite earlier success.

In Arizona, quarterback Kyler Murray has yet to return from injury, even though coach Jonathan Gannon previously hinted at a potential role. Murray remains on injured reserve, leaving uncertainty about the teams direction.

Panic Meter: Cardinals

Fans supporting Murray face a tough situation, as his comeback timeline remains unclear.

For the Las Vegas Raiders, rookie running back Jeanty has struggled despite high expectations. After being picked sixth overall, Jeantys production has been low, with an average below 3.2 yards per carry in five consecutive games. The Raiders rank last in the NFL in rushing yards and rushing efficiency. Although the offensive line and coaching situation contribute to the struggles, Jeantys slow start is notable.

Panic Meter: Raiders

Patience is advised, but the season has been a slow beginning for a highly-touted rookie.

Author: Sophia Brooks