Colts back in first

If it's a big game on a Monday night with half the team on the injured list, the Indianapolis Colts are going to find a way to win. And if their opponent is the Houston Texans and they are playing in Indianapolis, there is no way they are going to lose.

Such was the case Monday night as the Colts built a 17-3 halftime lead en route to a 30-17 victory over the visiting Texans, taking over first place in the AFC South for the first time all year.

Peyton Manning was again solid, and Kelvin Hayden jump started the defense with an INT returned for a touchdown that gave Indy a 14-0 lead. With Freeney and Mathis still healthy on the ends, Houston didn't stand much of a chance at a comeback.

The Colts will be tested throughout the remainder of the season, having to play without tight end Dallas Clark and possibly receiver Austin Collie for the rest of the slate.

But if Manning is behind center, the Colts will find a way to stay good, and new weapons will emerge because of that.