The Indianapolis Colts (0-0) are set to go to the Houston Texans (0-0) at NRG Stadium because the 2022 NFL season formally will get underway.

Because the Colts seek for their first opening day win since 2013, they must make sure that they win the large matchups. They is perhaps the largest favorites of the week when it comes to the unfold, however they nonetheless must execute on the sphere.

Listed below are the largest matchups to observe within the Week 1 bout between the Colts and Texans:

Stephon Gilmore vs Brandin Cooks

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Due to the Colts’ defensive scheme below Gus Bradley, Gilmore gained’t be tasked with shadowing Cooks everywhere in the area. Nonetheless, when the 2 are matched up, it ought to show to be a fiery battle. Gilmore continues to be among the finest press corners within the league whereas Cooks is criminally underrated each season. Containing Cooks is an enormous key to victory for the Colts protection, and it begins with Gilmore on the boundary.

Kwity Paye vs Tytus Howard

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One of many huge developments can be watching Kwity Paye’s development as a go rusher in 12 months 2. Howard performed principally left guard and a few left deal with throughout the 2021 season however now shifts over to proper deal with. In accordance with Professional Soccer Focus, he allowed 23 whole pressures and two sacks in 2021. Paye can be working on the Massive Finish spot on the defensive position and has proven flashes of breaking out in his second marketing campaign.

Michael Pittman Jr. vs Derek Stingley

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Pittman Jr. is seeking to proceed his ascension up the extensive receiver rankings whereas Stingley is the prized pupil of the 2022 draft class for the Texans. It isn’t completely clear how Lovie Smith will deploy Stingley in his first official NFL recreation, however we must always anticipate a strong battle between these two on the boundary.

Colts entrance seven vs Dameon Pierce

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One of many breakout stars from Texans coaching camp and the preseason is the rookie in Pierce. The fourth-round select of Florida gained the beginning function within the backfield and is more likely to deal with a heavy workload on early downs. Forcing Pierce and the Texans offense to turn out to be one dimensional can be essential, and it’s as much as the entrance seven to maintain Houston from counting on their run recreation.