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Indianapolis Colts: Can Marlon Mack shoulder No. 1 workload?

By Andrew De Fazio

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - DECEMBER 31: Marlon Mack #25 of the Indianapolis Colts pushes off a tackle from Kevin Johnson #30 of the Houston Texans during the second half at Lucas Oil Stadium on December 31, 2017 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images)
INDIANAPOLIS, IN - DECEMBER 31: Marlon Mack #25 of the Indianapolis Colts pushes off a tackle from Kevin Johnson #30 of the Houston Texans during the second half at Lucas Oil Stadium on December 31, 2017 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images) /
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With the departure of running back Frank Gore, Marlon Mack is expected to become the starter in 2018. What will he bring to the Indianapolis Colts?

Heading into the 2018 NFL season, the Indianapolis Colts decided to part ways with Frank Gore, feeling as though they wanted to give some of their young running backs a chance to excel. One of those running backs on the rise is Colts running back Marlon Mack and, with the 2018 season on the horizon, there is a good chance that he is slated to be the starting running back.

In 2017, Mack was limited in the Colts offense as he recorded 358 yards rushing, three touchdowns, and averaged 3.8 yards per carry with just 93 rushing attempts. Along with this, he tallied off 21 catches on 33 targets for 225 yards receiving, averaging 10.7 yards per catch.

However, the running back showed in flashes that with a bigger workload, he is capable of doing great things for the Colts in 2018. Here is one example of his ability on the ground.

This clip here displays his ability to be patient, find an open hole, explode through it and maintain control to reach the end zone.

Also when it comes to his strength, he sure has a mean stiff arm.

And when looking at his ability to make plays in the passing game, he sure excels in that category.  Here he shows is the ability to immediately turn upfield and speed past defenders to reach the end zone.

One thing Mack needs to improve upon is his pass blocking. In 2017, he struggled mightily when asked to do so. Bret Mock of the Stampedeblue.com goes into further detail of these struggles. Mack improving his ability to pass protect would go a long way to seeing reps on third down in 2018.

Next: NFL 2018: Ranking all 32 starting RBs

I project Mack to get the bulk of the carries this upcoming season in 2018. With the Colts adding pieces to improve their offensive line, combined with the return of quarterback Andrew Luck, look for Mack to see a dramatic improvement in his statistics next season.

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