The Indianapolis Colts traveled to Oakland on Christmas Eve to face the AFC West-leading Raiders in a showdown in the Black Hole. In order to keep their playoffs hopes alive, the Colts had to come out of Saturday’s matchup with a victory, among other things.
Eliminated
After falling to the Raiders 33-25 (the score was a lot closer than the game was), the Colts officially eliminated themselves from NFL Playoff contention, missing playoffs in back-to-back years since the 1997 and 1998 campaigns.
Fun fact: Chuck Pagano is the first Colts coach to miss playoffs in back-to-back seasons in over 20 years.
— Josh Wilson (@JoshWilsonSB) December 25, 2016
After falling behind (again) by 26, quarterback Andrew Luck and company did their best to provide fans with a Christmas miracle, but were stopped short in their comeback attempts.
Into The Offseason
With the Colts officially eliminated from postseason contention, all eyes turn towards the 2017 NFL offseason. The big question among the media and fanbase: will there be a change made in key front office and coaching positions moving forward?
It’s no doubt the Colts have struggled to supply Luck with talent. Who’s shoulders that should fall on is a tough question, one with various answers and leaving many speculating.
https://twitter.com/Cianaf/status/812794340963680256
Looking Ahead
The Colts will head home for their final game of the 2016-17 NFL season, facing off against the division rival Jacksonville Jaguars. Both teams are fighting for pride and draft positioning on Sunday, as both teams are eliminated from postseason contention (and Jacksonville has already begun the search for a new head coach).
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