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 It's a New Year and the Indianapolis Colts, one of the most successful football teams in the NFL today, are looking to have another winning season after making several major changes at the end of 2008. If they are successful, both Colts tickets and Colts jewelry will get a boost in value.
For the last seven years Tony Dungy has been head coach of the Blue Herd. During those years the Colts have proven themselves to be one one of the best teams in the NFL. They have convincingly demonstrated their claim to fame. 12 or more wins in six straight seasons, six straight playoff appearances, AFC South champs 5 out of those 6, and a Super Bowl victory in 2007 are a remarkable testimony to the quality of players and leadership of the franchise.
Coach Dungy, now 19th on the all time win list, was a major reason for that success but has now retired. Attempting to fill some big shoes will be long time Dungy coaching assistant, Jim Caldwell. Caldwell has been with Dungy since 2001 when Dungy coached at Tampa Bay.
In 2007 Colt’s management made the decision to with Caldwell whenever his boss decided to call it quits. An article in the Indianapolis Star stated that players and coaches were in agreement that the new coach was ready.
Not unusual following a head coach change, there will be additional changes in assistant coaching staff as well. Long time defensive coordinator Ron Meeks will move on and the Colts will make a much needed change with special teams leadership as well.
Along with changes to various coaching positions will come new names on the player’s roster. Peyton Manning will definitely be back as the centerpiece of the Colt’s franchise though they will need to start grooming his replacement soon. The biggest question for next season may regard the future of Marvin Harrison.
The quiet Harrison, an inevitable hall of fame inductee, had a rough season and many are wondering if his best years have passed. Speculation was rampant throughout 2008 as to whether or not the Colts should let him go. He is one of the greatest wide receivers of all time and has been a fan favorite. Look for the Colts to pick up a running back during the off season as well as some new beef for the defensive line.
Along with a new coach the Colts will get to enjoy a stadium that hasn’t lost its “new car smell.” Lucas Oil Stadium was unveiled on August 14 of 2008. Construction of the new stadium began in September of 2005. It has seven-levels, a retractable roof, and is capable of seating over 60,000 people. On August 24 of the 2008 season the Colts had their first game in the new stadium against the Buffalo Bills.
After failing to win the bid for the 2010 big game, Indianapolis will host Superbowl XLVI in 2012. This was possible, in part, to the construction of the new modern stadium and the increased seating capacity.
Change has come to the Colts, and change is good. Already a good team, these changes should make them even better for the coming new season.
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