INDIANAPOLIS — The Indianapolis Colts’ disappointment was evident after their defeat to the Buffalo Bills on Sunday at Lucas Oil Stadium, as fans voiced their frustrations with loud boos. Coach Shane Steichen and quarterback Joe Flacco expressed their accountability for the team’s shortcomings, while Pro Bowl cornerback Kenny Moore II openly criticized the team’s lack of effort.

With playoff aspirations dwindling, the Colts are facing a challenging situation, trying to turn their season around mid-way. Moore commented after the team’s third consecutive loss, stating, “I don’t think everybody is working as hard as possible, and obviously it’s showing.” He emphasized a disconnection between the intensity of practice and the performance during games.

In a team meeting held on Monday, Steichen addressed these concerns, attributing Moore’s remarks to the disappointment stemming from their recent losses. He noted, “Everyone wants to win, and people want to see results, right? And we want to see results as bad as everybody else.”

The Colts’ defense has performed admirably since regaining its health but has consistently faced challenges from an offense that has struggled to score touchdowns. Flacco has been chosen as the starting quarterback for the upcoming game against the New York Jets, replacing second-year quarterback Anthony Richardson, who had experienced difficulties with his completion rate.

Steichen has made various adjustments to the roster amidst a spate of injuries, attempting to rehabilitate Richardson and running back Jonathan Taylor before reintegrating them into the lineup. Additionally, wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. was unable to play due to a back strain that was initially expected to sideline him for an extended period.

Currently sitting at a 4-6 record, the Colts have found it difficult to maintain drives and points, compounded by an increase in turnovers. Steichen acknowledged the need for improvement, stating, “We’ve got to give them something to cheer about. Obviously, we’re not moving the ball. We’ve got to be better. There’s a lot of football left.”

With seven games still remaining in the season, there is potential for a playoff push, especially considering that outside the challenging matchup against the Detroit Lions, the Colts have navigated through the most demanding segment of their schedule. They are currently tied with Cincinnati and just one game behind Denver for the seventh and final playoff spot in the AFC.

Nevertheless, for the Colts to make any significant progress, it is essential to tackle the root of their frustrations. “Not winning,” Moore succinctly stated.

**What’s Working**
The defense has been capitalizing on turnovers effectively, with recent games yielding six takeaways over the past three weeks, including two interceptions against Buffalo.

**What Needs Improvement**
The quarterback performance has been a significant concern, as Richardson’s inaccuracies and Flacco’s six turnovers in two weeks contribute to ongoing struggles. This has been a persistent issue throughout their recent losses.

**Stock Up**
Wide receiver Adonai Mitchell, who faced early scrutiny, has shown improvement. His big plays against Minnesota are becoming a catalyst for his best performance yet, highlighted by six receptions for 71 yards against Buffalo.

**Stock Down**
Backup running backs have seen diminished opportunities; while Taylor had a strong outing with 21 carries for 114 yards, the contributions from other running backs were minimal, with only one carry registered by Ashton Dulin.

**Injury Concerns**
The Colts faced challenges with injuries, notably missing Pittman for the first time, while also losing RG Will Fries for the season. With Pro Bowl center Ryan Kelly on injured reserve and left tackle Bernhard Raimann unable to complete the game, the team had to rely heavily on three rookie offensive linemen, which could be a long-term situation until Raimann is back in action.

**Key Statistic**
Since Flacco stepped into the starting role, the Colts have averaged just 294 total yards per game.

**Next Steps**
To revive their season, the Colts must address their offensive inconsistencies, particularly in the passing game, which has faltered despite occasional success on the ground. If these issues remain unresolved in the coming weeks, it is likely that the same problems will continue to hinder their performance.