By RICHIE HALL
Indianapolis Colts fans who attended Saturday’s Training Camp practice at Grand Park – and there were many of them – saw what coach Frank Reich called “a spirited practice.”
The Colts will be busy the next three days as the team prepares for its first pre-season game, which is Thursday at Buffalo. With that game on the horizon, Reich is pleased to see his team in high spirits.
“That’s good,” said Reich. “That’s a sign that we’re ready to play another opponent. A few more days of preparation here before we go to Buffalo.”
It was Armed Forces Day at the practice, and members of the military were on hand, also being honored at the end of Saturday’s practice.
The Colts practiced in front of a big crowd that turned into a standing room only crowd: Some of the fans were allowed to stand along the edge of the field to watch practice, getting a chance to see at ground level the players push themselves, and each other.
“The competition is very high from all positions,” said veteran wide receiver T.Y. Hilton. “They’re very high, guys are competing. Offense pushing the defense, defense pushing the offense. Special teams guys are competing. That’s what you need. And this team is special.”
“I do think the pre-season games are the best opportunity for the youngest players to really shine,” said Reich. “But it’s really a good test for every player, right? You’re competing, so you got to show yourself well.”
Talk continued about the health of quarterback Andrew Luck, who has been unable to practice due to a stubborn calf injury. Reich prefers to take things slow with Luck.
“You won’t see him out here this week, but just ramping it up from last week,” said Reich. “It was so productive last week that we feel like we’re on the right track.”
That means Luck will likely be out for the Buffalo pre-season game. Reich also indicated there would be a few players who wouldn’t take to the field.
“It’s not a long list, but it’s a couple guys and we may add one or two to that in the next day or two,” said Reich. “We got to see how these practices go. We do think it’s important for everybody mentally to get ready. And then in the next two days, we see how those go, see what our health is going into that first game in order to get through the whole game. We’re expecting most guys to play.”
The Colts will be practicing at Grand Park from 2 to 4:15 p.m. today for their Fan Appreciation Day. Monday is First Responders Day, with practice taking place from 2 to 3:40 p.m. The Tuesday practice is scheduled for 2 to 4:15 p.m. The Colts will then be off Wednesday as they make the trip to Buffalo, returning to camp on Saturday.
Colts City will be open from 1 to 5 p.m. today, Monday and Tuesday.
The Colts defense goes through warmups during Saturday’s Training Camp practice at Grand Park. Pictured are Gerri Green (91), Tyquan Lewis (94), Grover Stewart (90) and Denico Autry (96). (Richie Hall)