Colts Defense Under Lou Anarumo: A Week 1 Deep Dive
The Indianapolis Colts debuted their new defense under coordinator Lou Anarumo in Week 1 against the Miami Dolphins, showcasing an aggressive and adaptable approach. This article analyzes the data and highlights the key changes implemented by Anarumo, moving away from the more static defenses of previous years.
Defensive Performance: Week 1 Highlights
The Colts' defense limited the Dolphins to just 12 first downs, the third-fewest of any team in Week 1, demonstrating their ability to prevent Miami from advancing the ball. Furthermore, the defense forced three turnovers, significantly impacting the game's outcome. Miami only managed to reach the red zone on one drive.
- Miami was held to just over 200 yards of offense.
- The Colts' defense ranked fifth-lowest in points allowed per drive.
- They achieved the second-best defensive EPA (Expected Points Added) per play, factoring in turnovers.
- Zero defensive penalties were committed.
While the Colts allowed the fourth-fewest explosive plays, a late-game garbage-time touchdown inflated Miami's total.
Passing and Rushing Defense
The Colts' pass defense excelled, ranking No. 1 in EPA per play allowed, aided by the three takeaways. Even without the turnovers, Miami managed the third-lowest passing success rate. The defense also recorded three sacks, tied for seventh-most in the league, and allowed only 4.0 yards per play, ranking third-lowest for the week. Miami struggled to move the ball through the air.
However, the Colts were less effective against the run. Although limited to just 10 rushing attempts, Miami achieved the highest rushing EPA rate of the week, converting 100% of their third-down runs and breaking off two explosive carries of over 40 yards. Situationally adjusted, this equated to the 10th-most efficient run game based on weighted Rush Success Rate.
Lou Anarumo's Impact: Aggression and Flexibility
Lou Anarumo is already implementing a new defensive philosophy in Indianapolis, emphasizing aggression and adaptability. Free safety Camryn Bynum described Anarumo's play-calling as that of a "madman," highlighting the variety and unpredictability of the scheme. The aim is to make the opposing offense uncomfortable, particularly the quarterback.
"Lou, he was calling that game like a madman," Camryn Bynum said. "To be able to have the variety that he calls the game with, to be aggressive at times where we should, being passive in certain situations. Mixing it up made it hard for the offense to pick up."
Matchups and Personnel Usage
Anarumo's defensive philosophy centers on exploiting matchups. He identifies an offense's tendencies and weaknesses to create a game plan that disrupts their comfort zone. Against the Dolphins, the focus was on clogging the middle and limiting Tua Tagovailoa's short-range passing game. Unlike previous Colts' coaching staffs, Anarumo intends to utilize the entire active roster, rotating players to leverage their specific strengths. Rookie defensive end JT Tuimoloau is an example of a player who earned snaps.
The Colts even traded for cornerback Mekhi Blackmon to add speed and coverage ability against receivers like Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle.
Increased Blitzing and Pressure Tactics
While the Colts have historically ranked low in blitz percentage, Anarumo increased the blitz rate to 25% in Week 1. These blitzes resulted in two sacks, a fumble, and an interception. Coach Shane Steichen praised Anarumo for putting players in advantageous positions and varying defensive looks. Anarumo is also seeking to maximize the impact of Pro Bowl defensive tackle DeForest Buckner by creating one-on-one opportunities through stunts and twists.
"He’s wired," Indianapolis head coach Shane Steichen said after Sunday’s game. "He was putting those guys in position, multiple looks, hitting them at the right time."
Looking Ahead
While the Week 1 performance was impressive, Anarumo acknowledges the challenges ahead. The next opponent, the Denver Broncos, led by coach Sean Payton, will present a different test. Anarumo's goal is to continually evolve the defense, making it difficult for opponents to anticipate and exploit weaknesses. The Colts defense under Anarumo promises to be a dynamic and unpredictable force throughout the season.
