NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WISH) – Several players defended the Colts on Sunday in their 20-17 win over the Titans.
Of course, many eyes always seem to turn to offensive and defensive players when thinking about players stepping up. But there was one special teams player who also played a key role in Indianapolis’ victory.
Bettor Rigoberto Sanchez put in an impressive performance against AFC South opponent Indy this weekend.
Sanchez had five punts Sunday, averaging a career-high 54.2 yards per punt (minimum three punts).
One of those punts came late in the fourth quarter, when he had a 57 yard punt who was taken down at the Titans three-yard line with less than 15 seconds left in the game.
“That punt was a big moment,” Colts head coach Shane Steichen said. “I mean, he couldn’t have done better. I mean, when I saw the thing land and saw it was sitting there. Right there, it doesn’t matter on the two or three meter line. He’s been doing it for a long time and putting those balls where he needs to put them.
Sanchez is having his best season statistically since joining the Colts. He has an average of 50.4 yards per punt this season, as well as a net of 44.1 yards per punt.
“It was just awesome and obviously, overturning the field, it’s necessary,” Steichen said. “Special teams is a big part of it and that’s a credit to the special teams guys, all those players that go out there and do that every week. Thanks to (Brian) Mason and Joe (Hastings) for putting these guys in position to make these plays today.
The punt return game was also solid for Indianapolis on Sunday. Receiver Josh Downs had four returns for a career-high 67 yards in a single game, averaging 16.75 yards per punt return.
“I knew I was going to get a few today too,” Downs said. “I should have brought the first one home, but I tripped. Yes, I knew I was going to get some punt returns and it was a good return game too.
Downs also finished the game with 7 receptions for 66 yards and a touchdown. The touchdown came in the first half of Sunday’s victory.
The Colts (3-3) are back in action next Sunday at home against the Dolphins (2-3). Kickoff is scheduled for 1 p.m. EDT inside Lucas Oil Stadium.
