The 2008 season of the Indianapolis Colts is the team’s 56th season in the NFL. They will try to improve their score from 13-3 from 2007, which is little to improve except that they hope to repeat their impressive season score, but this time they will win the divisional round, the playoffs and the Super Bowl. Perhaps the team was still shaking playing at their new home at Lucas Oil Stadium. (Maybe Peyton Manning slipped?) Still, fans are still raving about the 2008 draft pick.
This year, the Colts chose the following players to join the NFL’s dominant team: Arizona center Mike Pollak, Georgia linebacker Phililp Wheeler, Kentucky tight end Jacon Tamme, Georgia linebacker Marcus Howard, wing tight Tom Santi of Virginia, Wake Forest center Steve Justice, running back Mike Hart, Mount Union wide receiver Pierre Garcon and Buffalo center Jamey Richard. How were these draft picks with the NFL fans?
Mike Pollak has been seen as a productive option as a center guard, a necessity due to the dearth of starting shooting guards and one who could fit in admirably with the rest of the Colts team. Philip Wheeler was well reviewed as he is expected to perform well in zone play given his agility. On the other hand, he has been questioned for his skills in one-on-one coverage. Marcus Howard may be smaller than your average linebacker, but he has received rave reviews for his game and experience. Tom Santi received mixed reviews as he is obviously the size for success, but may be limited to blocking or goal line situations. Some wonder why he was chosen, while others are confident that he held an important position.
Steven Justice generally received high marks and without great risk. By operating with a low profile at first, he will be set for success and eventually fit in with the Colts in the long run. Mike Hart was responsible for some impressive feats in college, although he is relatively small compared to other players and not lightning fast. He has not been college-level catch-and-block tested, so it remains to be seen how he will respond to harsh interaction as a center. Pierre Garcon also divides fans as his offense remains untested and his height is below average. However, at the amateur level he had more than 60 receptions, 1,000 yards and 15 touchdowns. That leaves Jamey Richard as the last pick, one of the University of Buffalo’s top talents, weighing in at 300 pounds and weighing 6’4. It could be a welcome hub.
Will these draft picks help the Colts return to victory in the Super Bowl? Critics pointed to the team’s defensive problems, as well as the need for a stronger cornerback team. However, the 2008 draft picks have a lot of buzz about the Colts’ chances this season, not to mention the consistent excellent performances from returning players like Anthony Gonzalez and Peyton Manning. The Indianapolis Colts are still the favorites to win the Super Bowl in the top rankings, so don’t bet against them!
