GOOD NEWS FOR: Jonathan Taylor OF Colt As He…
Wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. has cleared the protocol following a major hit that kept him out of the game for the remainder of the Indianapolis Colts’ Week 15 30-13 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers. That makes it possible for him to play again on Christmas Eve against the Atlanta Falcons. However, Pittman’s availability for the game remains uncertain due to a shoulder ailment that restricted him during Friday’s practice.
Gardner Minshew, the quarterback for the Colts, had four receptions for 78 yards on five targets when Pittman finished the game. But while Pittman was diving for a ball, Steelers defensive back Damontae Kazee struck him head-on, causing a concussion. As a result, the seasoned defensive back was suspended for
“It’s unfortunate how it happened and I wish it never happened like for me and for him.”
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Pittman has 99 catches for 1,062 yards and 4 touchdowns on the year. That comes from a career-high 69.2% catch efficiency on 143 targets.
Pittman will be up against a formidable Falcons defense that includes probable All-Pro safety Jessie Bates III, who is among the best defenders in the NFL at forcing turnovers, and cornerbacks A.J. Terrell, Dee Alford, and Jeff Okudah. At five interceptions, he leads the Falcons at the moment.
On paper, this battle might appear straightforward, but the Falcons still have a lot of talent and pride. They will be motivated to defeat Pittman and the Colts at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Christmas Eve after their recent loss to the ignominious Carolina Panthers.
Will Pittman return to form quickly and maintain his normal dominance over the receiving share? Alternatively, can Pittman’s explosive season be contained by the Falcons defense, forcing Minshew to go elsewhere for pass-catching support?
It will be intriguing to watch if Pittman plays for the Colts in another crucial game. This game, like with a few others in recent weeks, has playoff and AFC South ramifications for Indianapolis.
