Record-breaking day for Colts

There was no shortage of record-breaking performances during the Indianapolis Colts' 28-16 victory over the Denver Broncos today at Lucas Oil Stadium. In addition to clinching home-field advantage throughout the AFC playoffs, the Colts broke the record for most consecutive regular season victories (22), most wins in a decade and it was also the first time in quarterback Peyton Manning's career in which the Colts won when he threw three + interceptions.

For the Broncos, wide receiver Brandon Marshall broke the NFL record for receptions in a game (21).

The game could not have gotten off to a more perfect start for the Colts: An 80-yard drive that was capped off by an Austin Collie touchdown reception, the Defense forcing a Denver three-and-out, and then another touchdown drive capped off on a 10-yard pass to Dallas Clark. The Colts then went up 21-0 in the second quarter on another Clark touchdown.

At this point, it seemed like the route was on. There was no way Kyle Orton was going to lead Denver back from this many points down. Even though it was still the first half, no one thought Denver had a chance. The Colts were playing great, and Denver was panicking by going for it on two first half fourth downs.

But then the Colts let the Broncos back in the game. Peyton Manning and the offense had five consecutive bad drives, three ending in interceptions. I remember thinking that I never witnessed five drives in a row as bad as that, for the Colts, anyway. They weren't even gaining any yards and until the 9 minute mark of the fourth quarter, the Colts only had one first down in the second half.

But whenever the Colts absolutley need to, they come through. The defense stalled a number of Denver drives into Colts' territory with a Tim Jennings interception and a good stop from the D-line on a fourth down. Another bullet was dodged when Broncos kicker Matt Prater missed a field goal.

Denever finally cut the lead to one score, 21-16. But whenever the Colts offense needs to come through, they do. Even after 5 bad drives, Peyton Manning led the Colts on a 7-minute touchdown drive that essentially iced the game. Good throws to Collie and Reggie Wayne put the Colts in Denver territory before Clark reeled in his third touchdown reception.

The Colts 'D' then closed it out when Denver was unable to convert a 4th and 18.

Indy was in control from the start, but sloppy play let Denver back into it. But when it really mattered, the Colts offense and defense came through.

With the entire conference wrapped up, it is still uncertain how much the Colts will play their starters over the next three weeks. They have constantly found new ways to win games this year, but only the postseason matters.