The Indianapolis Colts are once again staring down an offseason of discontent after missing the playoffs for the fourth straight year. It’s a frustrating time to be a Colts fan, and the blame game is in full swing. Ownership, general manager Chris Ballard, and the coaching staff are all feeling the heat.
The Colts recently decided to part ways with defensive coordinator Gus Bradley, which might have been a convenient scapegoat move. But regardless of who’s to blame, the Colts need a defensive makeover, and one name keeps popping up as a potential solution: Lou Anarumo.
Bradley’s defense has been, well, less than stellar during his three seasons in Indy. They’ve consistently ranked near the bottom of the league in points allowed, sacks, and third-down conversion percentage. They’ve got some talented players like Zaire Franklin, Deforest Buckner, Julian Blackmon, and Kenny Moore, but the unit as a whole just hasn’t clicked.
Anarumo, on the other hand, has a track record of success. He spent the last six seasons as the Bengals’ defensive coordinator, helping them reach back-to-back AFC Championship games. But things went south in Cincinnati this year, and Anarumo was let go.
Now, Anarumo’s defenses haven’t always been top-ranked, but he’s had to work with some questionable rosters at times. The Colts, with their existing defensive talent, might be just the opportunity he needs to prove himself again.
This could be a match made in heaven. The Colts get an experienced coordinator to revamp their defense, and Anarumo gets a fresh start with a talented group of players. It’s a chance for both sides to right the ship and get back on track.
But the clock is ticking in Indianapolis. Chris Ballard and head coach Shane Steichen are feeling the pressure, and making the right call on a defensive coordinator could be crucial for their future with the team. The Colts need to make some big moves this offseason, and bringing in Lou Anarumo might be just the spark they need to turn things around.
