The Indianapolis Colts have unveiled their 2024 schedule, and it’s a rollercoaster of matchups that promises excitement, challenges, and opportunities. From a high-profile season opener to crucial divisional battles, the Colts are set for a campaign filled with drama. Let’s dive into what fans can expect.
A Season Opener to Remember
The Colts kick off their 2024 season with a bang, hosting the defending AFC South champions, the Houston Texans. This divisional showdown is sure to be a heated affair, setting the tone for the entire season. With both teams eager to make a statement, fans can anticipate a thrilling atmosphere at Lucas Oil Stadium.
Divisional Dominance or Disaster?
The AFC South is shaping up to be a competitive division, and the Colts will need to navigate it carefully. Tough road trips against key rivals will test their mettle, while home games against division foes offer opportunities to gain ground. The Colts’ ability to perform consistently in divisional matchups will be crucial to their playoff aspirations.
Tough Road Trips
The Colts face a daunting slate of road games, including matchups against formidable opponents. These challenges will test the team’s resilience and ability to perform on the road. However, overcoming these obstacles could be a defining factor in their success.
Primetime Spotlight
The Colts will have a chance to showcase their talents on the national stage with a Sunday Night Football matchup against the New York Jets. This high-profile game will put the spotlight on the team and provide an opportunity to reach a wider audience.
Indianapolis Colts 2024 Regular Season Schedule
| Week | Day of Week | Date | Opponent | Location | Time (ET) |
| 1 | Sun. | Sept. 8 | Houston Texans | Lucas Oil Stadium | 1 p.m. |
| 2 | Sun. | Sept. 15 | @ Green Bay Packers | Lambeau Field | 1 p.m. |
| 3 | Sun. | Sept. 22 | Chicago Bears | Lucas Oil Stadium | 1 p.m. |
| 4 | Sun. | Sept. 29 | Pittsburgh Steelers | Lucas Oil Stadium | 1 p.m. |
| 5 | Sun. | Oct. 6 | @ Jacksonville Jaguars | EverBank Stadium | 1 p.m. |
| 6 | Sun. | Oct. 13 | @ Tennessee Titans | Nissan Stadium | 1 p.m. |
| 7 | Sun. | Oct. 20 | Miami Dolphins | Lucas Oil Stadium | 1 p.m. |
| 8 | Sun. | Oct. 27 | @ Houston Texans | NRG Stadium | 1 p.m. |
| 9 | Sun. | Nov. 3 | @ Minnesota Vikings | U.S. Bank Stadium | 1 p.m. |
| 10 | Sun. | Nov. 10 | Buffalo Bills | Lucas Oil Stadium | 1 p.m. |
| 11 | Sun. | Nov. 17 | @ New York Jets | MetLife Stadium | 8:20 p.m. |
| 12 | Sun. | Nov. 24 | Detroit Lions | Lucas Oil Stadium | 1 p.m. |
| 13 | Sun. | Dec. 1 | @ New England Patriots | Gillette Stadium | 1 p.m. |
| 14 | BYE WEEK | BYE WEEK | BYE WEEK | BYE WEEK | BYE WEEK |
| 15 | Sun. | Dec. 15 | @ Denver Broncos | Empower Field at Mile High | 4:25 p.m. |
| 16 | Sun. | Dec. 22 | Tennessee Titans | Lucas Oil Stadium | 1 p.m. |
| 17 | TBD | TBD | @ New York Giants | MetLife Stadium | TBD |
| 18 | TBD | TBD | Jacksonville Jaguars | Lucas Oil Stadium | TBD |
Sunday Night Showdown
The Colts’ primetime clash against the Jets promises to be a thrilling contest. Both teams boast talented rosters, and the game could have significant playoff implications. Fans can expect a high-scoring affair with plenty of twists and turns.
Home Sweet Home
Lucas Oil Stadium will once again be a fortress for the Colts, with a promising home schedule. The passionate Indianapolis fanbase will play a vital role in creating a hostile environment for opposing teams. Key matchups at home could be pivotal in determining the Colts’ playoff fate.
Key Matchups
Several home games stand out as potential turning points for the Colts. Showdowns against division rivals and other playoff contenders will be crucial opportunities to secure victories. The team will need to capitalize on home-field advantage to maximize their chances of success.
Indianapolis Colts 2024 Primetime and Flexible Scheduling Overview
| Week | Opponent | Game Type | Location | Notes |
| Week 11 | New York Jets | Sunday Night | MetLife Stadium | Only scheduled primetime game. |
| Week 17 | New York Giants | TBD | MetLife Stadium | Could be flexed to a primetime slot. |
| Week 18 | Jacksonville Jaguars | TBD | Lucas Oil Stadium | Could be flexed to a primetime slot. |
| N/A | N/A | Thursday Night | N/A | Not scheduled; possible flex Week 13-17. |
| N/A | N/A | Monday Night | N/A | Not scheduled; possible flex Week 12-17. |
Notes:
- The Colts have one confirmed primetime game in Week 11 against the New York Jets.
- Week 17 and Week 18 games are TBD and may be moved to a primetime slot based on their importance.
- The Colts are not scheduled for Monday or Thursday Night Football but may be flexed into one based on the NFL’s primetime flex scheduling rules.
1. Colts scheduled for 1 primetime game during 2024 regular season
10 Things to Know About the Colts’ 2024 Regular Season Schedule
For the fifth consecutive season, the Colts will play the No. 1 overall pick from that year’s NFL Draft.
May 15, 2024 at 10:00 PM
Week 18 Oddities
The Colts will finish their sixth consecutive season with either the Texans or Jaguars. They haven’t played the Titans to end a season since 2018 and haven’t hosted them in a season-ender since 2015.
Another Front-Loaded AFC South Slate
The Colts will play four of their six divisional games before Week 9, with three on the road in quick succession. This is similar to their divisional schedule structure in recent seasons.
They’re No. 1
The Colts will play against the No. 1 pick in the NFL Draft for the fifth consecutive season, with Caleb Williams (Chicago Bears) being the latest.
- 2024: QB Caleb Williams, CHI
- 2023: QB Bryce Young, CAR (27-13 W)
- 2022: DE Travon Walker, JAX (24-0 L, 34-27 W)
- 2021: QB Trevor Lawrence, JAX (23-17 W, 26-11 L)
- 2020: QB Joe Burrow, CIN (31-27 W)
Rookies All Over
Four teams on the Colts’ schedule used a first-round pick on a quarterback: Chicago Bears, New England Patriots, Minnesota Vikings, and Denver Broncos. If all rookies start, it would be the first time the Colts face four first-round rookie quarterbacks in a single season.
History Lesson, Part 1
Two of the Colts’ most important games in franchise history have come against the Chicago Bears, including their first NFL game in 1953 and their victory in Super Bowl XLI.
Back in the New (Jersey) Groove
The Colts will play two games at MetLife Stadium (Jets and Giants) for the first time. They’ll also do the Los Angeles double in 2025.
Rodgers vs. Indy
Aaron Rodgers will face the Colts for the fifth time in his 20th NFL season. His previous matchups include games against Peyton Manning, Andrew Luck, and Philip Rivers.
- 2008 (Peyton Manning): 34-14 Packers win
- 2012 (Andrew Luck): 30-27 Colts win (the Chuckstrong game)
- 2016 (Andrew Luck): 31-26 Colts win
- 2020 (Philip Rivers): 34-31 Colts win
Scorigami!
The Colts last hosted the Buffalo Bills in 2018, winning with the only 37-5 final score in NFL history.
History Lesson, Part 2
The Colts will play the Minnesota Vikings for the 28th time in franchise history, including a notable playoff victory in 1968 on their way to Super Bowl III.
Detroit Barnburners
The Colts and Lions have had high-scoring games in their last six meetings since 2000, with at least one team scoring 30 or more points in each matchup.
- 2020: Colts 41, Lions 21
- 2016: Lions 39, Colts 35
- 2012: Colts 35, Lions 33
- 2008: Colts 31, Lions 21
- 2004: Colts 41, Lions 9
- 2000: Colts 30, Lions 18
The Road to the Playoffs
The NFL is a marathon, not a sprint, and the Colts understand the importance of consistency. Achieving a winning record and securing a playoff berth requires a meticulous approach. Every game counts, and the team must be prepared to battle for every inch.
Crucial Games
Pinpointing crucial games is subjective, as circumstances can change throughout the season. However, certain matchups against divisional rivals and other playoff contenders will undoubtedly carry added weight. These games will serve as litmus tests for the Colts’ aspirations.
Looking Ahead
While the 2024 season is the immediate focus, the Colts are also laying the groundwork for future success. The development of young talent is a cornerstone of the franchise’s long-term strategy.
Young Talent on Display
The 2024 season will provide opportunities for young players to showcase their abilities. The Colts’ coaching staff will be eager to evaluate these prospects and determine their roles in the team’s future.
The 2024 season promises to be an exciting chapter in Colts history. With a challenging schedule and high expectations, the team will need to play at a consistently high level to achieve their goals. Fans can anticipate a thrilling ride as the Colts embark on their journey to playoff contention.
Conclusion
The 2024 NFL season is shaping up to be a thrilling one for Colts fans. With a challenging but exciting schedule, the team has the potential to make a deep playoff run. The combination of veteran leadership and emerging young talent creates a promising outlook for the future. As the season unfolds, fans can expect plenty of ups and downs, but the journey is sure to be an unforgettable one.
FAQs of Colts’ 2024 Schedule: What to Expect
When does the Colts’ 2024 season start?
The NFL typically kicks off in early September. The exact date for the Colts’ season opener will be announced closer to the start of the season.
Who are the Colts’ biggest rivals in the AFC South?
The Colts’ primary rivals in the AFC South are the Houston Texans and the Tennessee Titans.
Where can I find the Colts’ full 2024 schedule?
The official Colts website and the NFL’s website will have the complete schedule once it is released.
How can I purchase Colts tickets?
Tickets can usually be purchased through the Colts’ official website or through authorized ticket resale platforms.
Will there be any pre-game events or tailgating parties?
Yes, the Colts typically host various pre-game events and tailgating activities. Check the team’s website for more details closer to the season.
Who is the Colts’ starting quarterback for the 2024 season?
The Colts’ starting quarterback for the 2024 season will be announced closer to the start of the season.
Are there any key injuries or player moves that could impact the team?
Injury reports and player transactions are constantly changing. It’s best to follow the Colts’ news and updates for the most accurate information.
