In a high-stakes matchup with major playoff implications, Indianapolis Colts running back Jonathan Taylor delivered one of his signature dominant performances of the season. The third-year star erupted for over 100 rushing yards and two touchdowns against a stout New York Giants defense, willing his team to a crucial victory to keep their postseason dreams alive.
Taylor’s Heroics Fuel Colts’ Playoff Push
Entering Week 17 on the outside looking in at the crowded AFC playoff picture, the Colts desperately needed a win to preserve any chance of sneaking into the field as a wild card team. And as he’s done so many times before, Jonathan Taylor put the offense on his back with an incredible individual effort:
- 26 carries for 132 yards (5.1 avg) and 2 TDs
- 5 receptions for 27 yards
- Scored rushing TDs of 2 and 26 yards in 2nd half
The Giants defense knew the Colts’ gameplan revolved around giving Taylor a heavy workload, but they simply couldn’t contain the explosive runner. His elite combination of power, speed and elusiveness was on full display as he consistently ripped off chunk plays to set up scores.
“JT is just built different, man. In games like this, we’re going to lean on him and ride him as far as he can take us. He was unstoppable out there today.”
Colts guard Quenton Nelson on Jonathan Taylor’s huge game
A Budding Rivalry Brings Out Taylor’s Best
The Colts and Giants aren’t traditional rivals, but this marked the third straight season the two teams have squared off in meaningful late-season games. Taylor seems to relish these matchups, as some of his most memorable outbursts have come against Big Blue.
As a rookie in 2021, Taylor’s coming out party came in Week 16 when he steamrolled the Giants for 253 yards and 2 TDs. Last season, his 211 scrimmage yards and 4 total touchdowns against New York clinched a playoff spot for Indy.
The Giants’ defensive game plan focused on containing Taylor, often stacking the box with 7 or 8 defenders near the line of scrimmage. But thanks to outstanding blocking from the Colts’ offensive line, Taylor still found plenty of running room and made the defense pay all afternoon.
Chasing Dickerson and a Playoff Berth
With just one week left in the regular season, Taylor now finds himself within striking distance of a second straight NFL rushing title. His 132 yards versus the Giants brought his season total to a league-leading 1,697 yards, giving him a 128-yard cushion over the Cowboys’ Eric Dickerson.
Taylor will look to seal the rushing crown in the Colts’ season finale against the Texans next week. More importantly, a win would give Indy a strong chance to capture the AFC’s final wild card spot, depending on results around the league.
“I’m not really focused on any statistical goals right now. We’re fighting for our playoff lives every single week and that’s the only thing that matters. If we get in the dance, then anything is possible.”
Jonathan Taylor on chasing the rushing title and playoffs
Carrying the Colts on His Back
It’s no secret that the Indianapolis offense starts and ends with the production of their workhorse running back. Taylor has accounted for a staggering 38% of the Colts’ total yards from scrimmage this season, by far the highest share of any individual player in the league.
Opponents know that stopping JT is the key to beating the Colts, but his unique blend of physical tools and natural rushing instincts make him a nightmare to game plan against. Even when facing stacked boxes and selling out to stop the run, defenses struggle to corral the slippery Taylor in the backfield.
While veteran quarterback Joe Flacco has enjoyed a resurgent season and provided steady leadership, this Colts squad will ultimately go as far as Jonathan Taylor can take them. If the superstar back keeps ripping off yardage at this prolific rate, don’t be surprised to see Indy crash the playoff party.
