### Colts Face Major Defensive Setbacks Ahead of Week 10 Matchup in Berlin The Indianapolis Colts are grappling with significant injury challenges as they prepare for their Week 10 game against the Atlanta Falcons in Berlin. The team will be missing key defensive players, including star defensive tackle DeForest Buckner, who has been ruled out due to a neck injury. Buckner's absence is particularly impactful as he has been a cornerstone of the Colts' defense, leading in several key metrics this season. The Colts' defensive line will also be without two other starters, further complicating their game strategy against a formidable Falcons team. ### Breakdown of Injury Impact on Colts' Defense 1. **Key Player Absences**: - DeForest Buckner (DT) - Out due to neck injury, placed on injured reserve, missing at least four games [https://www.nbcsports.com/nfl/profootballtalk/rumor-mill/news/colts-put-deforest-buckner-on-injured-reserve-with-neck-injury]. - Samson Ebukam (DE) - Out due to knee injury, has not played for three weeks [https://www.yardbarker.com/nfl/articles/colts_defense_weakens_as_two_more_starters_out_vs_falcons/s1_16667_43032919]. - Tyquan Lewis (DE) - Out due to groin injury, also missing for three consecutive weeks [https://www.yardbarker.com/nfl/articles/colts_defense_weakens_as_two_more_starters_out_vs_falcons/s1_16667_43032919]. 2. **Defensive Performance Metrics**: - Buckner has recorded 33 quarterback pressures, 42 total tackles, and 4.0 sacks this season, making him a critical player for the Colts [https://www.yardbarker.com/nfl/articles/colts_get_brutal_injury_news_ahead_of_week_10_matchup_with_falcons/s1_16850_43030673]. - The absence of these players will require significant adjustments in the defensive lineup, potentially weakening the overall performance against the Falcons. 3. **Coaching and Strategy Adjustments**: - Head Coach Shane Steichen acknowledged the challenges posed by these injuries, emphasizing the need for other players to step up in Buckner's absence [https://www.thestar.com/sports/football/colts-put-defensive-tackle-deforest-buckner-on-injured-reserve-no-timetable-for-return/article_c81f3ebc-c324-5d5f-b749-bd9a32de969d.html]. - The Colts will need to implement strategic changes to compensate for the loss of their top defensive players, which could impact their game plan against the Falcons. ### Summary of Injury Report and Implications In summary, the Indianapolis Colts are facing a critical situation as they head into their Week 10 matchup against the Atlanta Falcons. The loss of DeForest Buckner, along with two other defensive starters, poses a significant challenge for the team's defensive strategy. 1. **Major Injuries**: - Buckner, Ebukam, and Lewis are all out, which could severely impact the Colts' defensive capabilities. 2. **Performance Metrics**: - Buckner's absence will be felt deeply, as he has been a leading force on the defensive line this season. 3. **Strategic Adjustments**: - The coaching staff will need to adapt their game plan to mitigate the impact of these injuries, which could affect their performance against a strong Falcons team. The Colts will need to rally and find ways to overcome these setbacks if they hope to maintain their competitive edge in the league [https://www.stampedeblue.com/indianapolis-colts-news/117517/indianapolis-colts-injury-report-defensive-line-missing-three].