No. 3: Establishing a consistent run game

Since drafting Andrew Luck back in 2012 with the No. 1 overall pick, the Colts have failed to give him a consistent and reliable run game. In his time in Indy, Luck has only had a 1,000-rusher once. And that was an aging Frank Gore, who had his better years behind him in San Francisco with the 49ers.

Gore also didn’t have the best offensive line to work with either. But we’ll get to that in a bit.

Extending Luck’s career after an injury layoff by giving him a reliable running game is one of the major X-factors in getting back to the playoffs. Especially a young back who change the course of a football game. Former Colts runner Trent Richardson wasn’t the answer. And a number of others weren’t either.

But the Colts just might have their answer on the current roster. And that’s 2017 fourth-round NFL Draft selection, Marlon Mack. Mack went to school at South Florida, and during his time there, he rushed for three consecutive 1,000-yard seasons. In 2018 he only got 93 touches — most of the load being given to Gore, who is now with the Miami Dolphins.

If there is anyone on that Colts offense is poised for a breakout year, it’s Mack. With an offense as desperate as ever and what seems to be repaired offensive line, expect Mack to be the answer to the Colts’ prayers.