Five Questions with the Enemy: Chiefs vs. Colts
On Sunday, the Kansas City Chiefs visit the Indianapolis Colts, and the fan chatter is buzzing about the AFC picture beyond this week’s matchup. To gain perspective, we sat down with Chris Shepherd of Stampede Blue, the SB Nation site that’s been covering the Broncos and broader AFC narratives with sharp insight. Here are Five Questions with the Enemy that dig into how Indy should view the rest of the conference and what could tilt the scales in a matchup with KC.
1) How surprised are Colts fans by the team’s success this season?
Colts fans aren’t stunned so much as impressed. There was optimism after a solid offseason, but consistency under pressure has become the big driver of belief. The defense has shown growth in run-stopping and pass rush timing, while the offense has found a rhythm in short-to-intermediate throws and efficient play-action. The real surprise is the team’s ability to win close games and maintain turnover discipline. If Indy can keep that identity—controlling the line of scrimmage and minimizing big mistakes—they’ll continue to press above expectations even in a stacked conference.
2) Which Colts player has been the biggest pleasant surprise?
In many analysts’ minds, the breakout has been at the skill positions where the young playmakers have stepped up. A running back or receiver who wasn’t on everyone’s radar a few weeks ago has become a dynamic piece in the offense, converting difficult catches and generating yards after contact. On defense, a hybrid linebacker/safety has shown instincts and leadership, becoming a spark plug for the unit. The key takeaway: the depth pieces are contributing just enough to keep the unit balanced and honest for opponents.
3) Which AFC team is the biggest threat to Indy?
Short answer: the Kansas City Chiefs are the biggest yardstick and the most formidable rival in the AFC for Indianapolis. Their offense is elite, their quarterback play is consistent under pressure, and their coaching staff routinely makes critical in-game adjustments. Beyond KC, other contenders like the Bills and Bengals offer similar arsonist-level talent, but KC’s track record and personnel depth place them at the top of the threat ladder. That said, Indianapolis has shown it can beat strong teams when it executes its game plan with precision—so the Colts’ path to rising in the AFC standings isn’t about erasing every powerhouse in one season, but beating two or three of the top teams when it matters most.
4) What matchup could swing the Chiefs-Colts game in Indy’s favor?
Indy will want to pressure the pocket and limit big plays. A successful pass rush that disrupts KC’s rhythm, combined with disciplined coverage on the arrow routes and deep shots, can create second- and third-down opportunities for the Colts. Offensively, ball security and quick, clean, play-action throws will help Indy move the chains and keep KC’s offense off the field. The team that minimizes penalties and wins in the turnover battle typically wins this type of back-and-forth contest.
5) If Indy wants to beat the Chiefs, what’s the single most important element?
Consistency in the running game and play-action efficiency is the critical lever. When the Colts can establish a respectable run, they unlock easier completions and keep KC’s pass rush from pinning their ears back. That sets up third-down conversions, sustained drives, and keeps the defense fresh. In short: control the tempo early, stay multi-dimensional, and avoid shooting themselves in the foot with self-inflicted penalties. If Indy can do that, they’ll have a real shot to challenge the Chiefs and keep the AFC landscape interesting down the stretch.
Bottom line: the Chiefs test Indy’s defense at a high level, but there’s a broader conference story here. The Colts’ growth, the emergence of young players, and the looming threat of other AFC contenders create a compelling backdrop for this weekend’s game. Stay tuned as these two teams collide and the AFC chess match continues to unfold.
