Last meeting
In Week 12 of 2004, Peyton Manning threw six touchdowns, leading the Colts to a 41-9 rout of the Lions on the road.
Last week
The host Lions took a three-point lead into the fourth quarter, but could not hold on, losing 20-16 to the Vikings. ... The Colts cruised to their sixth striaght win, a 35-3 dismantling of the Bengals.
Fan feedback
Are the colts the most dangerous team in the AFC? What is Detroit's most pressing need going forward?
**What are your thoughts?**
Keep your eye on ...
Detroits QBs: Daunte Culpepper had his best performance as a Lion last week, completing over 58 percent of his passes without throwing an intercpetion, but an injured shoulder has put his next start in doubt. If he can't go the Lions will be forced to turn to former starter Dan Orlovsky or first-year QB Drew Stanton.
Detroit's rookie rusher: It's been an up and down season for Kevin Smith, starting Detroit's first four games before taking a backseat to Rudi Johnson for the next four, then regaining the role in Week 10. Smith has put up decent numbers since returning to the starting spot, but has dropped off of late, averaging 42.5 rushing yards and 2.4 yards per carry over his last two games.
Indy's defensive ends: The Colts are at their best when Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis are creating pressure off the edges. Indianapolis' defensive ends have a combined 19 sacks in the Colts' nine wins and just two in their four losses. Last week they combined for four of Indianapolis' five sacks.
Did you know?
The Colts currently possess the AFC's top Wild Card spot. The Lions have been eliminated from playoff contention. For a complete look at the postseason picture click here. ... The Colts aim for their seventh consecutive win. ... Smith is one of four rookies to lead his club in both rushing yards and rushing touchdowns. He can become the sixth rookie in franchise history to lead the Lions in both. ... Lions WR Calvin Johnson leads the club with 56 receptions, 1,055 yards and nine touchdowns. He aims to join Herman Moore as the only Lions player to record 70 catches, 1,200 yards and 10 TDs in a season.
