With top cornerback Charvarius Ward watching on from the sideline, the Indianapolis Colts had to rely on Xavien Howard to step up in his absence.
The 32-year-old has plenty of experience and has led the league in interceptions previously, but Howard was also playing in just his second game in over two seasons. And it showed in Indy’s dramatic 29-28 win over the Denver Broncos.
Howard had a rough day in coverage, allowing five catches on five targets, including two touchdowns. Additionally, he was penalized three times, all on the same drive and over a five-play span. The drive resulted in Denver taking a 21-13 lead, a lead they would hold until Spencer Shrader’s game-winning field goal on the final play.
Howard knew he was being picked on given his lack of regular snaps.
“They attacked me with a lot of quick stuff, quick slants and stuff,” he explained. "I knew a team was going to attack me early on in the season. I've been off a little minute, so I knew guys want to see if I still can play and stuff like that.”
Like the season veteran he is, Howard didn’t use it as an excuse, instead taking accountability for his poor play.
“I gotta do my job,” he said, knowing how he’ll move forward.
"I feel like as a cornerback, you have to have a short-term memory,” he said. "So, plays are going to happen. Just got to move on and keep going.”
Seeing players take accountability, which hasn’t always been the case in recent years, is refreshing and likely a reason why the Colts have gotten off to their best start to a season in 16 years.
The Colts will look to move to 3-0 on Sunday against the Tennessee Titans, hopefully with Ward back and available.