Indianapolis Colts: 3 Biggest X-factors for 2019 season

2. WR T.Y. Hilton

In the last three seasons, T.Y. Hilton has had 15 games with over 100 receiving yards. The Colts record in those games? 11-4. When Hilton has a big game, the Colts fair very well, and they win far more often than they lose. He’s been quarterback Andrew Luck‘s No. 1 weapon since the league in 2012.

Hilton has developed into one of the best deep threats in the NFL and they need that to remain true next season. He is explosive and can make big plays happen at any time. However, he also has a propensity for being big-play reliant to get his production.

He is the Colts’ No. 1 receiver and Ballard brought in some solid backups this offseason. However, they aren’t set to take over in the event that he disappears for much or all of a game. His nickname is the “Ghost” because of his speed but he has ghosted the Colts a time or two.

Hilton was the ninth-highest graded wide receiver last season by Pro Football Focus (subscription required). They need him to become more consistent in his production. It will open up more room for the other pass catchers, and it can do a better job setting up the running game. Opponents will have to focus more on stopping him which creates lighter boxes. If he can’t do that, they’ll continue to be a great but non-elite offense.