Colts Beat Steelers in Mexico City
M E X I C O C I T Y, Aug. 20 -- In less than half a quarter, the Indianapolis Colts’ Triple Threat scored more points against Pittsburgh than three other teams combined for all preseason.
Peyton Manning threw two perfect touchdown passes, including a77-yarder to Marvin Harrison, and Edgerrin James had a 2-yardtouchdown run, all within the first 7:26 of the Colts’ 24-23victory over the Steelers on Saturday night.
The offensive trio that led the best turnaround in NFL historylast season appears ready for an encore this season. After tworusty games, Indianapolis (2-2) has had consecutive sharp outingsby its first unit.
The outburst against a Pittsburgh defense that had allowed 20points in three games was stunning. It took just seven plays and4:40 for all three touchdowns.
‘Not Talking Super Bowl’
Mexican reporters were so impressed that they bombarded Coltscoach Jim Mora with questions about winning it all this year.
“We’re not talking Super Bowl,” Mora said. “All we’re talkingabout is getting ready for the regular season.”
Manning was 9 of 14 for 174 yards with at least two of theincompletions being dropped. He hit Harrison twice for 85 yards,but also completed passes to six other players. James complementedthe air game with 29 yards on seven carries.
“We have a good team this year,” Manning said.
The Steelers (3-1) got within 21-10 with their starters, thenmade things interesting with its backups.
Third-string quarterback Tee Martin dove into the end zone with10 seconds left to put Pittsburgh within a 2-point conversion ofvictory, but running back Pepe Pearson was stopped at the 1.
Steelers Receive Support
At least the Steelers had the crowd on their side. About 90percent of the 87,145 fans in Mexico’s Azteca Stadium cheered forPittsburgh and nearly all wore yellow and black. Many wavedTerrible Towels.
Their reaction to the Colts was interesting. Indianapolisplayers were booed in pregame warmups, then lightly applauded whenintroduced. More polite clapping followed each Colts touchdown.
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