Miami, Nov 03: The Indianapolis Colts defeated the Miami Dolphins 23-17 on Sunday in Miami.
Matching their best start since 1977, the Indianapolis Colts improved to 7-1 as they broke a four game losing streak to the Miami Dolphins. The Dolphins dropped to 5-3, as they lost their 3rd game at home this season. Trailing 23-14 late in the 4th quarter Miami put a scare into the Colts. Olindo Mare's 23-yard field goal cut the Colts' lead to six. With 2:45 remaining in the game, Dolphins cornerback Terrell Buckley intercepted Manning by stepping in front of a short pass intended for Reggie Wayne, giving the Dolphins the ball at the Colts 15 yard line.
However two plays later, the Colts new and improved defense got the ball back when Miami Quarterback Brian Griese fumbled as he sacked by Dwight Freeney. Raheem Brock recovered, and Indy ran out the clock. Miami's Ricky Williams ran for just 36 yards on 13 carries, his fifth consecutive game under 100 yards. Griese, making his second start in a row for the injured Jay Fiedler, was 18-for-29 for 231 yards. He lost two fumbles, both forced by Freeney.


The Colts were lead by a great defensive effort and a strong kicking game. Mike Vanderjagt kicked field goals of 50, 44 and 25 yards. He's 21-for-21 this season and has made his past 25 attempts dating to last season.


Colts' running back Edgerrin James ran 26 times for 89 yards while Peyton Manning finished with 266 yards, 1 touchdown pass and the potentially disastrous interception in the closing moments.


Bureau Report