Three and out

Mike Mulligan's quick take of the day

Colts games featured 312 combined possessions by both teams in 2006, the lowest in the NFL. Inferior teams did their best to keep the ball away from Peyton Manning. Despite the low number of possessions, the Colts averaged just over 2.5 points every time they touched the ball (they're just under 2.0 in the playoffs). They have averaged 12.31 possessions in the postseason, while the Bears have allowed foes 14.5 possessions. If the Colts touch the ball that much, they'll score 29 points, a lot to overcome.

The Bears led the NFL in combined possessions per game with 410. They were the best team at forcing turnovers and gave the ball back at nearly as high a rate. If the Bears are attacking in numbers and stripping the ball, they'll force some turnovers. Peyton Manning needs to be pressured from the interior of the line to force some bad throws and interceptions. Indianapolis can drive down the field, but the Bears need to get the ball in the plus area to get their offense going.

Limiting possessions is a duty not limited to defense. The offense can help by eating the clock and holding onto the ball. Some teams have tried to let the play-clock wind down before snapping the ball against Indianapolis, but that isn't a good strategy because it takes a team out of rhythm and forces patience for linemen eager to get out of their stance. The better option is to simply run the ball, preferably up the gut of the field where there is limited danger of going out of bounds and stopping the clock.