The Indianapolis Colts are gearing up for ͏a ͏crucial Week 15 cl͏ash against the Denve͏r Broncos, with their playoff d͏re͏ams ha͏nging ͏by a t͏hread. One name Colts fans are thrilled to hear about is Josh Downs. The͏ standout rookie wide receiver ha͏s b͏een͏ a ͏key play͏maker this s͏eason͏, leadi͏ng the t͏eam wit͏h͏ 53 receptions de͏spite battling i͏njur͏ies. As Indianapolis͏ faces a must-wi͏n ͏scenario, Downs’ ͏potential return adds a much-need͏ed boost to their offense͏.

Speaking on his status for Sunday, Downs kept things straightforward yet hopeful. “It’s just the coaches’ decision. It’s based on what they say,” Downs mentioned while emphasizing his readiness. “But yeah, I feel good,” he added. Head coach Shane Steichen echoed a similar sentiment, noting Downs was ‘looking good’ in practice but keeping the final call under wraps for now.

Josh Downs missed the Week 13 win over the Patriots due to a right shoulder injury and was eased into practice post-bye. After starting as a limited participant on Wednesday, the promising wideout was upgraded to full participation on Thursday—a sign he’s trending toward suiting up against Denver. The Colts have struggled to replace the dynamic slot role Downs brings to the table, making his return pivotal as they chase a playoff spot.

It’s not just Downs making a comeback. Linebacker Jaylon Carlies and center Ryan Kelly could also suit up this Sunday. Kelly and rookie Tanor Bortolini are both in the running for the starting center role after injuries left the Colts shuffling the position earlier this season. Meanwhile, veteran right tackle Braden Smith is expected to miss the game due to a personal matter. And also cornerback JuJu Brents remains under evaluation after knee surgery.

With the Colts getting healthier and December football heating up, Steichen acknowledged the stakes. “Playing meaningful football in December is huge,” he said. With Downs likely back in action, Indianapolis is ready to fight for their postseason dreams.

Colts keep playoff hopes alive with win over Broncos, but the road ahead is tough

The Indianapolis Colts delivered big against the Denver Broncos, securing a crucial win and boosting their playoff chances to over 60%. It’s not just a victory—it’s a lifeline in their hunt for postseason glory. With a record now at 7-7, every game feels like the playoffs. But the Colts can’t rest just yet.

Their path to the postseason is clear but narrow: win out the remaining three games, including a divisional clash with the Jaguars, and hope Denver stumbles once more. Anthony Richardson’s dual-threat ability, paired with Jonathan Taylor’s power runs, is the Colts’ ticket. Yet, the Broncos’ elite defense, led by Pat Surtain II, showed why they’re a problem for any team. Surtain, the AFC Defensive Player of the Month, has been a shutdown artist.

The Broncos were hit hard by Richardson’s mobility and Taylor’s relentless ground attack. Still, Denver’s defensive stars have vowed to bounce back. “Stopping Taylor and keeping Richardson contained is critical,” said Sean Payton, who knows a playoff slip is just one loss away.

The Colts also face their own hurdles. With a banged-up offensive line, Richardson must overcome pressure and deliver under fire. It’s make-or-break time for Indy, but if they keep this momentum, they might just pull off the improbable.