Week 13’s Colts vs Patriots matchup features two sub-.500 teams vying for a boost in momentum. Indianapolis (5-7) has undergone an odd arch in 2024. Former first-round pick Anthony Richardson has been benched and reinstated as the starting quarterback. The club desperately needs the sophomore quarterback to discover the sky-high potential from his scouting report. However, the Colts seem to lack any true identity.
Despite having a worse record, New England (3-9) has a more optimistic outlook. Rookie head coach Jarod Mayo has managed the transition from veteran Jacoby Brissett to rookie Drake Maye well. In turn, Maye has flashed consistent signs that he is the franchise-level signal caller the Pats have lacked since future Hall of Famer Tom Brady’s departure.
Both teams have weapons. And both have glaring holes in their roster. Their home-field advantage gives New England a boost. While and the dual rushing attacks of Richardson and Jonathan Taylor give Indy a slight edge in a virtual pick-em game.
Can Anthony Richardson continue his bounce-back against rookie Drake Maye in this Colts vs Patriots matchup?
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Colts vs Patriots Odds
- Moneyline: Colts (-155) vs Patriots (+130)
- Spread: Colts -2.5 (-120) vs Patriots +2.5 (+100)
- Over/Under: Over 42.5 (-110) / Under 42.5 (-110)
Colts vs Patriots Prediction
IND Colts 17, NE Patriots 20
This Colts vs Patriots game will be tightly contested. Expect Richardson, who looked sharp against a questionable Jets defense in his return and poor against a dangerous Detroit defense last week, to return to solid form against New England. The Pats rank exactly 20th in the league in total yards allowed, rushing yards allowed, and passing yards allowed. This should leave the Colts’ quarterback looking more like Dr. Jekyll than Mr. Hide.
However, star runnings Jonathan Taylor has slowed down in the latter half of the season. Top receiver Michael Pittman Jr has been a virtual non-factor this season. And the whole Indianapolis roster feels lacking.
Meanwhile, New England has several playmakers moving in a more positive direction. Maye has looked sustainable. Veteran Hunter Henry has been a game-changer. And, when healthy, running back Rhamondre Stevenson has moved the needle for the Pats.
Expect Richardson to make a handful of good plays. But also expect the inexperienced quarterback to struggle in a hostile environment as the Patriots upset the Colts.
Colts vs. Patriots Best Bets
Patriots Winning Margin 1-6 (+350)
Richardson has only played in 12 career games, giving him the same amount of NFL experience has rookies Jayden Daniels and Box Nix. In fact, the Colts’ sophomore has significantly fewer passing attempts (275) that real-life rookies Nix (399), Daniels (332), and Caleb Williams (373).
Richardson (22) is tied with Drake Maye as the youngest starting quarterbacks in the NFL. For context, he is the same age as projected 2025 first round quarterbacks Cam Ward and Shedeur Sanders.
Expecting a virtual rookie with consistency issues to win a high-pressure game in a historically difficult environment in near-freezing temperatures is not a strong bet. Expect New England to earn the victory at home.
Drake Maye Over Two Passing Touchdowns (+165)
If the Pats are indeed able to pull off the upset, Maye will have to be the catalyst. Thankfully this matchup against the Colts sixth-worst pass defense opens the door for a big performance. Look for the tight end combo of Hunter Henry and Austin Hooper to do damage near the goal line, propelling Maye to 2+ passing scores.
Main Image: Sam Navarro – USA Today Sports
