INDIANAPOLIS — The 2024 NFL season kicks off where the 2023 season left off for the Colts.


Last year, Indianapolis fell just short of the AFC South title and a playoff spot, losing to Houston by a narrow margin at Lucas Oil Stadium. Since then, the Texans have emerged as the favorites in the AFC South, while the Colts have flown under the radar.


This Sunday at 1 p.m. ET, the Colts have an opportunity to assert themselves as legitimate AFC South contenders when they face the Texans at Lucas Oil Stadium. They’ll be looking to end a 10-year streak of losing their season opener, although they did manage a tie with the Texans in Houston in 2022.


The season opener will offer the first glimpse of the 2024 Colts, and there are several key storylines to follow.


The Development of Anthony Richardson:


1. Unknown Offense: The Colts’ offensive strategy for Anthony Richardson remains largely a mystery. Richardson’s mobility was a key asset last season, averaging 5.4 yards per carry as a rookie. This dynamic could open up numerous possibilities for offensive coordinator Shane Steichen.


2. Jonathan Taylor's Role: Jonathan Taylor, who played only two snaps with Richardson last year, is coming off back-to-back injury-plagued seasons. However, his 196-yard performance against Houston in the season finale showed he’s still a top-tier weapon. With defenses focused on Richardson’s mobility, Taylor’s role could become even more impactful.


Texans Injury Report:


3. Pass Rush Concerns: Houston aimed to strengthen its pass rush by signing Danielle Hunter and Denico Autry. However, Autry is suspended for six games for a performance-enhancing drug violation, and Will Anderson, the second-year edge rusher, has only recently returned from an ankle injury. With Anderson potentially limited, the Texans might rely more on Jerry Hughes and Derek Barnett against Colts tackles Bernhard Raimann and Braden Smith.


Key Matchups and Players:


4. Richardson's Passing: Richardson showed inconsistency in the preseason, combining impressive drives with occasional misses. Steichen’s offensive philosophy of “throw to score, run to win” will require Richardson to make plays downfield, even if he’s not among the NFL’s top passers.


5. Josh Downs' Absence: With Josh Downs ruled out due to a high ankle sprain, rookie Adonai Mitchell is expected to step into the slot role. Mitchell, who hasn’t played in the slot before, may face challenges, and the Colts might also utilize Anthony Gould in this position.


6. Alec Pierce's Potential: The Colts are optimistic about Alec Pierce’s progress, expecting him to make an immediate impact. Pierce will face the Texans' secondary, including cornerback Derek Stingley Jr., who may cover Michael Pittman Jr.


7. Laiatu Latu's Debut: Rookie edge rusher Laiatu Latu will face a tough challenge in his NFL debut, potentially lining up against Texans Pro Bowl tackle Laremy Tunsil. Defensive coordinator Gus Bradley may move Latu around to exploit favorable matchups.


8. Texans Offensive Line: The Colts’ defensive line might find opportunities against a Houston offensive line with questions about starters Kenyon Green, Juice Scruggs, and Tytus Howard. Indianapolis’ defensive front, including DeForest Buckner and Kwity Paye, will aim to disrupt the pocket and pressure quarterback C.J. Stroud.


9. Running Game Struggles: Houston's run game struggled last season and added Joe Mixon, who has not averaged over 4.1 yards per carry in the past five years. The Colts’ run defense, led by Grover Stewart and Zaire Franklin, should pose a significant challenge for Mixon.


10. C.J. Stroud's Impact: Despite Houston's run game issues, C.J. Stroud is a major factor. Coming off a Rookie of the Year campaign, Stroud threw 23 touchdowns and only five interceptions last season, showing his ability to thrive despite receiving injuries.


Texans Receivers vs. Colts Secondary:


11. Improved Receiving Corps: Houston’s receiving group has strengthened with the addition of Stefon Diggs and the return of Tank Dell. Nico Collins, who scored a 75-yard touchdown against the Colts last January, adds further depth. Colts cornerbacks JuJu Brents and Jaylon Jones will be tested early.


12. Nick Cross' Role: The Colts are counting on third-year safety Nick Cross to play a key role. Stroud will likely target Cross deep, making it crucial for Cross to support the young cornerbacks in coverage.


Special Teams and Return Game:


13. Matt Gay’s Status: Colts kicker Matt Gay’s availability is uncertain following hernia surgery. If he can’t play, undrafted rookie Spencer Shrader, known for his strong leg but lacking NFL experience, will step in.


14. Return Opportunities: With new kickoff rules reducing return chances, Colts rookie Anthony Gould might not have many opportunities to showcase his return skills.


This matchup promises to be a compelling start to the Colts' 2024 season, with plenty of questions to be answered and key performances to watch.