Contain Chris Thompson

Running back Adrian Peterson and his partner in crime, Chris Thompson, are the definition of thunder and lightning. Peterson will run you over and Thompson will run around you. This combination could be real trouble for a lackluster Colts run defense. Against the Bengals, the Colts surrendered about 5.2 yards per carry. But, the passing game is where the running backs have been gashing the Colts’ defense.

Thompson has the ability to be a game-changer out of the backfield. Bursting onto the scene last year, Thompson became a featured member of the Washington offense. That role seems to have evolved early this year. Thompson was targeted by quarterback Alex Smith nine times out of the backfield against the Arizona Cardinals. He capitalized on those opportunities for six catches, 63 yards, and a touchdown. Thompson also had five carries for 65 yards. He is effective in either role, although, the primary runner will be Peterson.

Smith, a veteran quarterback, is not going to allow the Colts defense to swallow him up. The wily veteran is slippery and can escape the pocket with ease. When he does this, he is able to create time and space for his receivers, including Thompson. When Thompson gets into that open space, watch out. There is a lot of space in this Colts’ defense that is built to allow a play to develop in front of them and then respond by swarming to the ball-carrier and making a tackle. This game has all of the indicators of being a big day for Thompson.

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