The Indianapolis Colts they ended the 2021 campaign with an embarrassing loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars that knocked them out of the playoffs. Chris Ballard, general manager of the team, gave a press conference and explained the status of the team.
“I’m not going to sit here and make excuses for why we got our asses kicked in Jacksonville., because that’s what happened, we got our asses kicked. Those things happen,” Ballard said.
Indianapolis was limited to 233 total yards by Jacksonville and quarterback Carson Wentz was sacked six times. Additionally, three of his nine offenses ended in turnover on downs, one in a fumble and one in an interception.
“I know the loss against Jacksonville was painful, but we had other opportunities during the season and we didn’t make it. We finished with a record of 2-5 in games of seven points or less.
The Colts lost to the Chargers in Week 2 for three points, against the Ravens in Week 5 for six, against the Titans in Week 8 for three, against the Buccaneers in the week 12 for seven and against the Raiders in Week 17 for three points. His wins came against the Jaguars by six in Week 10 and the Cardinals in Week 16.
In addition, Ballard made it clear that what the team has achieved during his tenure is not enough. In five seasons as general manager, the Colts are 41-40 in the regular season and 1-2 in the playoffs.
“We have qualified for the playoffs twice in the last four years, we’ve only won one playoff game and we haven’t won our division. It’s not enough,” Ballard explained.
Stability at the QB position
Ballard also stated the importance of keeping his top players on the team in order to build on what they accomplished in 2021. The GM made an exception for Wentz. Indianapolis’ passing offense finished 26th in generating 197.7 yards per game.
“I will not comment on who will be here and who will not be here next year. It’s not fair. I think Carson (Wentz) did some things well and there are some things he needs to do much better.. You know, our aerial game has to improve”, declared the general manager.
Wentz was acquired by the Colts in a trade with the Philadelphia Eagles before the start of the 2021 season. in exchange for a third-round pick from the last draft and a conditional first- or second-round pick for the 2022 Draft.
“We need stability at quarterback. And that position must play at the level of its potential to help this team win. I’m not blaming Carson, okay? Because it is important that everyone does their part, however, we must be consistent in it, ”said Ballard.
The quarterback was hampered by ankle injuries since the start of the season. and despite this he was able to play all 17 regular season games. The North Dakota State product had 3,563 yards, 27 touchdowns and seven interceptions while completing 62.4 percent of his shots.
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Chris Ballard: We need stability at quarterback